Private day tour to Cucugnan, Quéribus & Peyrepertuse castles. From Carcassonne.

Carcassonne , France

Private day tour to Cucugnan, Quéribus & Peyrepertuse castles. From Carcassonne.

Active

9h - 10h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

It is the Perfect tour for nature and heritage lovers… there is some breathtaking landscape and I will tell you more about the Cathars…

This tour require a good physical condition, and good walking shoes. Accessible to any person with a good physical condition able to hike.

I can lend 4 walking sticks.

Available options

Private day tour to Cucugnan, Quéribus & Peyrepertuse castles. From Carcassonne.

Pickup included

What's included

private guide and driver

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

We depart in the morning to visit these two amazing ruined castles…. We start with Quéribus Castle, also called citadelle du vertige, which, as it's name suggests will offer you a wonderful view, literally breathtaking. During the Cathar crusade, Queribus served as a shelter to the cathars. This is sometimes regarded as the last cathar stronghold, in a sense it was. After the fall of the chateau of Montsegur in 1244 surviving cathars gathered together in the corbieres in another mountain top stronghold on the border of Aragon (the present border between the Aude and the Pyrenees Orientals department)

Queribus is high and isolated, it stands on the top of the highest peak for miles around. From a distance it can be seen on the horizon, sticking up into the sky.

We take lunch in the pretty village of Cucugnan. After lunch, take the time to stroll through the medieval streets of this picturesque village and go to the windmill where you will be surrounded by vineyards. According to the old mill at the top of the village, the story goes that The baker of Cucugnan, together with the co-operation of local farmers was master of bread production, using the now abandoned wheat variety known as the Bearded Roussillon.

We then head onto Peyrepertuse Castle, a ruined fortress and one of the Cathar castles. It was associated with the Counts of Barcelona and later the kings of Aragon. The name Peyrepetuse is derived from Peirapertusa, the Occitan word meaning pierced rock. The lower part of the castle was built in a strategic location by the Kings of Aragon in the 11th Century and the higher part by the french King Louis IX later on, after the area was annexed to France. The two castles were linked together by a staircase. The castle lost importance as a strategic castle when the border between France and Spain was moved in 1659, causing the castle to be abandoned. The castle ruins are impressive, set high on a defensive crag. From the approach road it is difficult to see where the rock strops and the castle begins.

What's not included

Lunch

Soda/Pop

Coffee and/or Tea

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a historic fortified city in southern France, famous for its medieval architecture and UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cité de Carcassonne. It offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a fairy-tale experience.

Top Attractions

Cité de Carcassonne

The Cité de Carcassonne is a medieval fortress and UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the most visited historic sites in France, featuring a double-walled fortress, 52 towers, and a drawbridge.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €9.50

Château Comtal

The Château Comtal is a medieval castle within the Cité de Carcassonne. It offers guided tours that take visitors through its rich history and stunning architecture.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Included in the Cité de Carcassonne ticket

Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus

This beautiful Romanesque basilica is located within the Cité de Carcassonne. It is known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.

Religious/Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Musée de l'Ecole Française

This museum is dedicated to the history of education in France. It features a collection of school-related artifacts and provides a unique insight into the educational system of the past.

Museum 1-2 hours €5

Lake Cavayère

Lake Cavayère is a popular spot for outdoor activities, including swimming, boating, and picnicking. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the region.

Nature Half day Free (activities may have separate costs)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cassoulet

A traditional dish made with white beans, meat (usually duck, goose, or sausage), and slow-cooked in a clay pot.

Main course Contains meat and beans, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Confit de Canard

Duck confit is a dish where duck legs are slow-cooked in their own fat, resulting in tender, flavorful meat.

Main course Contains duck, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Foie Gras

A delicacy made from the liver of a duck or goose, often served as a pâté or mousse.

Appetizer or Dessert Contains animal products, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Croustade de Carcassonne

A traditional pastry filled with apples, cinnamon, and sometimes almond cream.

Dessert Contains dairy and sometimes nuts, suitable for vegetarians.

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby mountains Boating at Lake Cavayère Picnicking by the lake Enjoying a leisurely meal at a local restaurant Exploring the Cité de Carcassonne Visiting local museums and galleries Swimming at Lake Cavayère Visiting local Christmas markets

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. The city is bustling with visitors, and the weather is ideal for exploring the medieval streets and enjoying outdoor dining.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Occitan
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Carcassonne is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.

Getting there

By air

Carcassonne Airport • 3 km from city center

By train

Carcassonne Station

By bus

Carcassonne Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and affordable, with routes covering most parts of the city and surrounding areas. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for those staying outside the Cité.

Taxis

Available • Apps:

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

La Cité Bastide Saint-Louis Montlegun

Day trips

Toulouse

90 km • Full day

Toulouse, known as 'La Ville Rose' (The Pink City), is a vibrant city with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a lively cultural scene.

Narbonne

50 km • Half day

Narbonne is a charming town with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and a relaxed atmosphere. It is known for its Roman ruins and canals.

Minerve

60 km • Full day

Minerve is a picturesque medieval village nestled in the heart of the Haut-Languedoc Regional Natural Park. It is known for its stunning views and historic sites.

Festivals

Carcassonne Festival • July and August Fête de la Saint-Jean • June 24

Pro tips

Visit the Cité early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets.
Try the local specialties, such as cassoulet and foie gras.
Book accommodations and tickets for major attractions in advance, especially during peak season.
Explore the Bastide Saint-Louis for a more modern and vibrant atmosphere.