Two Days, Two Castles: Exploring Medieval Marvels in Southern France
Few places spark the imagination like the medieval castles of southern France. Over the course of two days, we explored two unforgettable sites—each steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Day One: Cité de Carcassonne – A Timeless Fortress
We began our adventure at the Cité de Carcassonne, one of Europe’s most iconic fortified cities. With its double walls, 52 watchtowers, and dramatic stone gates, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping straight into a medieval fairytale.
The city’s origins trace back to Roman times, but the fortress as it stands today was largely developed in the 12th and 13th centuries. During the Cathar Crusades, Carcassonne served as a crucial stronghold as the Catholic Church sought to eliminate the Cathar movement. Its cinematic grandeur even earned it a role in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991).
We wandered the cobbled streets, took in panoramic views from the ramparts, and soaked up the sense of history embedded in every stone.
Day Two: Hiking to Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
The next day, we set out for a more rugged adventure: a hike to Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours. With our loyal Standard Poodle, Guinness, trotting beside us, we made our way along trails that weave through dramatic cliffs and forested slopes.
Perched above the Orbiel River, the four castles of Lastours—Cabaret, Surdespine, Tour Régine, and Quertinheux—rise from the craggy landscape like sentinels of the past. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, they too played a significant role in Cathar history, providing refuge during the Albigensian Crusade. Unlike the restored splendor of Carcassonne, Lastours retains a wilder, more mysterious aura.
The trail rewarded us with sweeping views of the Pyrenees and a tangible sense of connection to the region’s medieval roots.
A Tale of Two Castles
The juxtaposition of Carcassonne’s polished grandeur and Lastours’ haunting beauty made for an unforgettable two-day journey through southern France’s rich and turbulent past. Whether you’re drawn to imposing architecture, panoramic hikes, or centuries-old legends, this castle duo offers a truly immersive experience.
