Sightseeing
See below for places to visit during your stay at Domaine de Badia.
Within easy driving distance are Mirepoix, Monsegur, Limoux, Camon, Carcassonne and Toulouse.
Mirepoix Cathedral : Always open, the Cathedral dominates the main Medieval Market Square of Mirepoix. Stunning architecture with some of the widest spanning arches in a French cathedral, wonderful stain glass windows and inspiring ambience. Often in the summer there are musical events in the Cathedral, and in December a wonderful Christmas carol service by the 'Choer de Leran'.
Mirepoix : 3 km from Domaine de Badia was built in the 10th century and is steeped in Cathar history. Simon de Montfort seized the main chateau in the town during the crusade against the Cathars in 1209. The central square of the town retains many medieval features and is the setting for a magnificent market which is held each Monday morning.
The centre of Mirepoix is built around the place de Couverts which in turn has the 14th century Maison des Consuls as its main attraction. The overhanging arcades have exposed beams and from these there are approximately 150 individually carved wooden heads. The square is full of history, places to eat and drink with a thriving market each Monday morning. Mirepoix is a bustling town during the summer.
Carcassonne : The astonishing La Cite, Jousting demonstrations and July fireworks. The Château Comtal is a UNESCO world heritage site and is a must visit while in the area. (30 km drive)
Monsegur : The ancient Château de Montségur, was built on the "
Château de Puivert : In the twelfth century a castle stood on this site, which had strong Cathar and troubadour links.
Prehistoric Caves to visit The Niaux Cave and Mas d'Azil Cave.
Toulouse : capital of France's southern Midi-Pyrénées region and France's 4th largest city, it is known as La Ville Rose due to the pink terra-cotta bricks used in many of its buildings.
Festivals : There are many festivals in Mirepoix as well as the surrounding area at different times of year including a variety of music concerts (in Mirepoix cathedral, at Queille, at Labbaye-Chateau de Camon to mention but a few) a drama festival in Mirepoix (Medieval, & Joan of Arc), food (Fete de Pommes in October) and general interest (Fete de Marionettes (Puppet)
Canal du Midi : Short and long trips can be taken on boats and barges along the Canal from Carcassonne. The Canal du Midi is a UNESCO world heritage site.
The Queille Festival occurs every second year over the last weekend in May. Along with music, theatre and poetry come traditions of bonfires at night, dancing, stories, a banquet, circus acts, stunning views of snow-capped Pyrenees and fun await. The programme comprises classical, jazz and other music, theatre and dance performed in the 11th century chapel or in the "big top" circus tent.
The Beach at Narbonne - Enjoy the more sheltered area of Leucate Plage with 18km of natural beach, sailing, surfing, snorkeling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sand yachts, oysters, castles and wine!
Fanjeaux : Brocante at Fanjeaux - Bruno Batel - open 09.30-12.00, 14.30-17.00 Tuesday to saturday. On the way to Carcassonne airport Tel: 04 68 24 60 66