Pennautier 1 day
Tried and tested for you by
Elisa,
Grand Carcassonne Tourist Office
01 Highlight
The sun is shining as Aurélie and Julien leave Carcassonne, picnic and all, and head for Cabardès to explore the “Vineyard Trail”.
After a 10-minute drive, the views are stunning! The vineyard clings to the sun-drenched slopes of the Montagne Noire mountains, all the way to the Pyrenees…
Aurélie and Julien can’t wait to taste the wines of this exceptional terroir.
At their destination, they have no trouble following the 3-km discovery trail dotted with insect hotels, reptile shelters, and information panels about the different grape varieties.
After a relaxing picnic in the coolness of the woods, the couple return to the car and drive to Château de Pennautier.
02 Highlight
Who would have thought that the picturesque little village of Pennautier is home to one of the most remarkable and most spectacular buildings of the entire Carcassonne area. Just 10 km away from the Citadel ramparts, you’re greeted by an authentic 17th-century palace, a listed Historical Monument.
At first sight the Versailles influence is obvious.
Construction began on the château in 1620 at the request of Bernard Reich de Pennautier, who was Treasurer of the Estates of Languedoc. The building work was later pursued by his son, a sophisticated and powerful man. He asked Le Vau, the architect of Versailles, to erect the wings of the château, while Le Notre was entrusted with designing the French gardens.
The guided tour of the château is sometimes conducted by the chatelaine herself, Miren de Lorgeril. Room after room, the splendour unfolds…
This place is prestigious yet full of charm!
The gardens make a choice setting for a walk or a photo session with the château in the background. The 30 hectare grounds, looking out over the vineyards, feature a whole diversity of vegetation, including some rare species.
Orangery, chapel, horses… a timeless moment in a timeless place!
03 Highlight
It’s time to taste the wine.
Aurélie and Julien are to meet Nicolas, the sommelier, at the château winery. The site instantly inspires respect! The height of the ceilings and the rows of barrels… this looks promising.
The estate’s Cabardès wines are made here. It is one of the oldest wine châteaux in France and it is on a quest for excellence.
The naturally elegant wines have names that speak for themselves, such as “Rêve” (dream), “Esprit” (spirit) and “Marquis”.
04 Highlight
You can end this timeless day in style by dining at the restaurant, La Table du Château.
You’ll be greeted with a smile and shown to an inviting terrace in the estate’s magnificent courtyard!
On the menu: a delicious house cuisine of elegant dishes accompanied by one of the estate’s excellent wines, carefully selected on the advice of the sommelier…
When the weather forces you to eat inside, La Table du Château proposes a lovely dining room decorated in red, stone and wood, where a log fire burns brightly in the hearth and takes the chill off those cool evenings.
This wonderful experience makes the perfect end to your visit to the Citadel of Carcassonne!
Hotels, restaurants, activities, getaway ideas… see our favourite addresses to ensure you get the most out of your experience in Pennautier.
Drinks, wines and spirits PENNAUTIER
Arriving from Toulouse, take the D6113 to Carcassonne, then turn left at the roundabout towards Pennautier. You’ll see the tasting cellar and restaurant as you enter the village.
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