The Pic de Soularac (near Montségur, where 200 Cathars were burned to death in 1244) is only 16 miles from here - it is setting for the climax of Kate Mosse's bestseller Labyrinth. Medieval Carcassonne is also heavily featured - see the Guardian article about it. The novel is ideal for getting a feel for the beautiful region of the Pays d'Oc - just the thing to read before coming, or while relaxing by the pool! Mirepoix Cathedral (12 miles away) is well worth a visit and also has a Labyrinth. As well as being very beautiful, this area is rich in medieval history!

Chalabre

Situated in the foothills of the French Pyrénées, at the heart of Cathar country, Chalabre is a charming "Bastide" village which still displays many of its medieval origins. It has a full range of shops, including a supermarket, boulangeries, butchers, greengrocers as well as the post office, bank, doctors, pharmacies, dentist and hairdressers. There is an excellent restaurant and a couple of bars, all within easy walking distance of Le Bourdil.

Chalabre has its own chateau to visit as well.

Fairs & Markets

There is no shortage of local activities. This fair is in Chalabre in the Spring.

There are regular weekly markets, and the most notable are in Limoux, Mirepoix, Castenaudary, and Revel. This one is the large Monday market at Mirepoix.

Walking & Cycling

This is an area with fine views and walks - the track which passes Bourdil goes in one direction towards Lac de Montbel through the woods (see picture), or in the other direction towards the village to connect with a variety of routes randonnées and VTT trails (walking and cycling circuits). There are fantastic views from a number of walks in the immediate area.

We are also fortunate to have some impressive wildlife locally - birds of prey include Black Kites and Red Kites as well as Harriers and Buzzards.

Lac de Montbel

The 540 hectare Lac de Montbel, with its sailing and boating facilities, is about 3 miles by road - or less via the wooded path from Le Bourdil.

The Pyrenees, Ski-ing & Rivers

For winter and early spring visitors, the nearest ski slopes are at Mont d'Olmes (about 45 minutes' drive), with runs ranging from green to black. There are also three interlinked Domaines de Ski at Ax-les-Thermes. For river enthusiasts, there are many white water rafting and canoeing sites in the area.

Cathar Castles

This is Cathar country. For lovers of history and legend, there are many impressive Cathar fortresses nearby, including Puivert and Montsegur where in 1244, 225 martyrs chose to be burnt at the stake, rather than give up their faith.

Carcassonne

Within easy reach by car (45 minutes), is the spectacular Cité de Carcassonne - originally built in the middle ages and later restored by Prosper Mérimée and Eugène Viollet le Duc.

Mirepoix & Limoux

Also nearby is the fascinating medieval town of Mirepoix, with its unique 13th century "couverts" or arcades around the main square, and Limoux, the centre for the sparkling white wine, Blanquette de Limoux.

Wine Country

Blanquette de Limoux has been produced here for longer than Champagne. Languedoc Roussillon is the largest wine producing region in France.

The vineyards of Malepère, the Razès, and the Corbières are all close by, with the Minervois between Carcassonne and the coast.