Eleven Nights in Carcassonne: Housesitting, Vineyards, and Hidden Gems

We spent nearly two wonderful weeks housesitting (TrustedHousesitters) in Carcassonne, caring for Guinness, a lively and lovable Standard Poodle. Our stay offered the perfect blend of scenic walks, rich local cuisine, and day trips to some of southern France’s most captivating sites.

Vineyard Walks, Lakeside Views, and an Underground Marvel

Each day began with peaceful strolls through the vineyards, where Guinness delighted in chasing pine cones along quiet country paths. One afternoon took us to the serene Lac de la Taure, a peaceful lakeside spot with crystal-clear waters and panoramic views—ideal for a relaxed outing.

For something entirely different, we ventured deep underground to the Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine, one of the largest caves in Europe. The towering stalactites, cavernous chambers, and dramatic lighting made for an awe-inspiring experience, revealing a whole new side of the region’s natural beauty.

French Flavors: From Boulangeries to Cassoulet

Food was a constant source of joy. Mornings started with warm croissants and pastries from the local boulangerie, while evenings often featured cribbage games paired with wine, cheese, and charcuterie.

A standout culinary moment was dinner at Floricablanca, where we enjoyed a delicately grilled blue shark steak and a hearty cassoulet—a rich, slow-cooked dish of duck, sausage, and white beans that embodies the soul of southwestern France.

Exploring Mirepoix, Caunes-Minervois, and the Minervois Wine Route

We took advantage of our location to visit several historic towns and scenic spots. In Mirepoix, we reunited with an old high school friend and strolled beneath the medieval arcades of its postcard-perfect town square, surrounded by colorful half-timbered houses.

Another favorite was Caunes-Minervois, a quaint village known for its pink marble, charming architecture, and intricately designed door knockers that line the cobbled streets.

Wine lovers will appreciate our visit to Château La Villatade, where we enjoyed a guided tour and tastings that deepened our appreciation of the Minervois wine region.

To top off our cultural adventures, we attended La Symphonie du Cinéma: John Williams at Théâtre Jean-Alary—a magical performance that brought iconic film scores from Star Wars to Jaws to life.

Final Thoughts

From vineyard paths to ancient towns, our stay in Carcassonne was a richly layered experience. With Guinness by our side, we embraced the joys of slow travel—great food, authentic encounters, and a deepening connection with France’s southern charm. We can’t wait to see where the next adventure leads!