Roquefère / Lastours 2 days
Tried and tested for you by MARGOT
Montagne Noire Tourist Information
01 HIGHLIGHT
Clad in its glistening schist armour, the Roquefère watchtower gazes over its kingdom from its rocky peak. As the rising sun’s rays kiss the château, it dazzles in the midst of a bountiful valley glowing red and orange.
Intrigued, you venture into its hilltop village with earthy lanes that twist and turn. Peace and quiet reign supreme. You’re in for a total change of scene away from the hustle and bustle of town…
“Water is everywhere on this amazing loop deep in the Montagne Noire. Whether you’re with family or friends, I highly recommend this refreshing hike!”
Elodie, happy hiker and local expert.
This 16km loop takes 5 hours and is suitable for good hikers.
Try it in spring, summer, autumn, winter… every season has its own scenery…
If you’re low on time (or your calves are feeling it!), park in the hamlet for stunning views! Learn everything there is to know about the environmentally sensitive area with educational signs.
02 HIGHLIGHT
The bubbling fresh water sets the soundtrack to your thoughts… Cubserviès waterfall carves out its surroundings in a magical setting of pine and spruce trees. The heady rebel dives into the Rieutort Valley. It’s a sight for sore eyes!
“Cubserviès waterfall is 90m high, the equivalent of a 30-storey building!”
03 HIGHLIGHT
The best local produce
“A warm welcome in an amazing natural setting. The portions are generous (a way of life in Aude) with excellent local produce, serious quality”
Tripadvisor review by Orixe, Lyon
04 HIGHLIGHT
05 HIGHLIGHT
Forty-odd caves and holes have been found on the Châteaux de Lastours hill but Le Trou de la Cité (City Hole) alone was dug out to link the fortresses to Carcassonne. Listen out and you can hear the echo of dashing horsemen fleeing their besieged city... Want to visit the Châteaux de Lastours? Walk this way!
“After a day hiking deep in the Montagne Noire, this is a chance to soak up the Cathar Country’s true soul. It should come with a warning: it’s addictive!
If you’re low on time or your calves are still feeling yesterday’s outing, you can gaze at the Châteaux de Lastours from two special belvederes. It will still take your breath away!” Go there !
Margot, local expert.
The 4 Châteaux de Lastours are competing for UNESCO status alongside the Cité de Carcassonne and 6 other châteaux. Support the nomination!
Walking activities SAISSAC
Campsite VILLANIERE
Route Type
Loop
Elevation: 700m
Distance: 16km
Maximum altitude: 785m
Average duration: 5 hours
Yellow markings then a yellow and green segment and a yellow and blue segment.
Which is the best time to experience the hike?
Spring, summer, autumn, winter... every season has its own scenery! The weather changes quickly. Always check the weather forecast before you go out.
Parking
AAccess: hiking car park - village entrance, 11380 Roquefère
GPS coordinates: 43.371046 /2.376984
NB
Hiking boots are recommended as there are lots of rocky paths. Poles are worthwhile as the descents can be fairly steep.
This is a mountain area so bring something to eat and drink.
Take nothing, but pictures; leave nothing, but footprints. We're counting on you!
Roquefère lies north of Carcassonne (22km) on the D101, a little road that takes you from the vineyard plain to the Gorges de l'Orbiel. Make it happen: plan your drive to Fournes Cabardes (accommodation) and Lastours (châteaux tour).
(Please see EV charging stations in the towns and villages).
Le Garriguet is a Pays Cathare-approved travel cake and Aude speciality that comes in a lovely wooden box.
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