The area around Les Cassés has something for everyone. Whether you are interested in Cathar history and sightseeing, or prefer more sporting pursuits, there is plenty on offer.
If you like to take things easy, visit the local markets and sample the delicious regional food, or take a trip round a vineyard followed by some wine tasting.
Walking: there are several circular walks which start from Les Cassés or from neighbouring villages – from 5kms up to 20kms. There are also more strenuous “Grande Randonnée” routes nearby, such as the GR7 and the GR653.
Cycling: all types of terrain are accessible locally, from the challenge of the Montagne Noire, to the gentle towpaths along the Canal-du-Midi. Cycle rental is available nearby.
Water sports: there are two lakes within 20 minutes of Villa Confey. Lac-de-St-Ferréol is set in 80 hectares of parkland near the Montagne Noire and has supervised swimming, sailing and pedalos in the summer months. Lac-de-la-Ganguise offers windsurfing, sailing, swimming and canoeing.
Boating: take a half-day or a full-day trip along the Canal-du-Midi, which is a UNESCO world heritage site.
Golf: Toulouse, Carcassonne, Mazamet and Figeac all have 18-hole golf courses.
Caves: visit the “Grotte de Limousis” and the “Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine” in the Montagne Noire or the underground river Labouiche at Foix.
Cathar Trail: follow the historic Cathar Trail which takes you to Avignonet, Mirepoix, Foix, Fanjeaux, Limoux, Montségur and the medieval cité of Carcassonne, which is also a UNESCO world heritage site.
Markets: explore the numerous local markets where you’ll be able to sample a range of fresh produce and delicious gastronomic specialities, including our regional delicacy – “cassoulet”
Wine tasting: try the well-known Languedoc-Roussillon wines, such as Malpère, Corbières, Minervois, Fitou, Cabardès and Blanquette de Limoux. Most vineyards and local “caves” offer wine tastings all year round.
Gastronomy: restaurants to suit all tastes, including vegetarian and vegan – several with Michelin stars – can be found within 30 minutes of Villa Confey.
Children: there are numerous activities and adventure parks which children will enjoy in this area. These are just a few of the many on offer that we think are definitely worth a visit…
- O2 Adventure: treetop rope climbing activities near Carcassonne,
plus water activities in nearby Lac de la Cavayère - Parc Australien: a kangaroo reserve in Carcassonne
- Airbus in Toulouse: for aeroplane enthusiasts
- Cité d’Espace in Toulouse: for lovers of space travel
- Dinosauria: a dinosaur museum in Espéraza
- Paper mill: in the Montagne Noire
- Animal parks: see goats, lamas, bison… there are numerous parks
for younger children in the local area - Aquajet & Aqualand: water parks close to Narbonne
- Sigean Nature Reserve: 3,800 animals in 300 hectares near Narbonne (open all year)
And for those who prefer to spend their holiday doing as little as possible, simply lie by the pool, relax and unwind.