Only 20km from Carcassonne in the Aude department of southern France, Domaine Vidal is set within a three-hectare estate of woodland, wild gardens and organic farmland – no pesticides are used in this very natural setting. Fly into Carcassonne Airport or arrive by train to Gare de Bram/Carcassonne via Narbonne.
In a remote setting (with just one neighbouring farmhouse), car hire is essential to be able to fully explore the region although bikes are also provided for wonderful cycling routes nearby. The nearest village with a restaurant, small supermarket, bakery, tennis courts and municipal summer swimming pool is less than 3km away whilst there are further amenities in the small historic town of Bram within a 10-minute drive.
The Canal du Midi passes north of Bram meaning this area is ideal for keen cyclists who can follow the canalside towpath to Castelnaudary (22km) or in the other direction towards Carcassonne, Trèbes (33km) and, further afield, pretty Minervois wine villages (Homps, Argens-Minervois, Paraza, Roubia and so on).
Of course, one of the great draws of this region is Carcassonne (20km), so loved for its medieval citadel, one of the largest fortified castles in Europe and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take time to experience the other part of the town, historic Bastide Saint-Louis, with its narrow lanes, wine-bars, restaurants and indoor market alongside the bustling café terraces of Place Carnot, home of an atmospheric market on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday mornings. Both the Canal du Midi and Aude River pass through Carcassonne.
Indeed, the Aude River offers opportunities for beautiful scenery, kayaking/canoeing and summer swimming. Riverside Limoux (26km) is especially picturesque with its charming old town, arcaded main square, covered market and many café terraces for sipping Blanquette de Limoux, the oldest sparkling white wine in France (locals say Dom Perignon stole the idea to create champagne!).
The pretty town of Mirepoix (32km) is must-visit for food lovers on a Monday morning when the lovely market takes over the central square, said to be one of the most beautiful markets in the region. Heading north instead, Revel (42km) is another superb and highly regarded market to experience, this one on a Saturday morning - perhaps combine with a trip to the lake at Saint-Ferréol.
The Region
Whilst most visitors flock to Carcassonne for its fortified citadel, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is so much to experience across the historic city and its beautiful surroundings.
It goes without saying that the great highlight of Carcassonne is Europe’s largest walled fortress with its warren of winding lanes with cafes and little shops alongside its impressive towers and ramparts – guided tours along the city walls can be arranged. It feels like a fairytale for young and old with knights in armour, horse-drawn carriage rides and fascinating museums.
Look out for festivities and events throughout the year, the most famous being July’s Festival de Carcassonne with cultural and musical events taking place across the city. What’s more, the Bastille Day fireworks are some of the most magnificent in France.
Beyond the citadel, cross the Aude River and soak up the vibrant ambience of Le Bastide de Saint-Louis, a bustling neighbourhood with its own rich heritage. Start at Place Carnot with its café terraces, impressive fountain and wonderful market three mornings or head straight to the gourmet stalls of Les Halles’ covered market. Dine out in atmospheric restaurants serving the best regional cuisine perhaps accompanied by a glass of Minervois, Corbières or other excellent wine from the vineyards surrounding the Cité de Carcassonne.
Then there’s the tranquility of the city's Le Canal du Midi just perfect to explore on foot, by bike or via boat. In one direction you can cycle along the canalside towpath to Castelnaudary, famed for its pretty marina and restaurants serving cassoulet. On another day head east towards Trèbes, Homps, Argens-Minervois and other picture-perfect wine villages across the Hérault’s Minerve region, the perfect trip out from your Carcassonne holiday home.
