One of France's most under-explored regions — despite boasting two terrific UNESCO World Heritage Sites — the Aude has a rich history, beautiful landscapes and a reputation for excellent food and wine. Known as ‘Cathar Country’, this south-western French gem is dotted with ancient villages studded with stone houses, ivy-clad mansions and old châteaux. Whether you’re a keen hiker or history buff, you’ll find an endless array of attractions here — and the accommodation options to match. Characterful and cosy, our pick of the best places to stay in the Aude are set both within its vibrant cities and tranquil villages, perfect for trips as a couple or with family and friends.
Lively Narbonne is a hotspot for culture aficionados, who can admire its many marvellous museums, as well as dipping into a vibrant food and nightlife scene. Fabled fortified Carcassonne, on the other hand, is perhaps the region’s most famous draw, with its ancient ramparts, craggy towers and winding streets. You’ll also find a number of Aude’s top restaurants in and around the medieval city. The smaller communities of Couiza and Cucugnan are lovely for more laid-back holidays, as are the cottages and villas hidden in amidst vineyards and forests.
Avid hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders can explore trails aplenty in the area, whilst kayakers and bird watchers can meander along slow-moving rivers or discover the picturesque Canal du Midi. Barge trips are immensely popular during the summer months. Follow the Cathar Trail from the foothills of the French Pyrenees to the ruined mountaintop Château de Peyrepertuse, unwind in refreshing swimming pools with valley views, or savour regional dishes at the best places to stay in Aude. Summers can be busy, so book your trip well in advance!
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Narbonne
A beautifully restored chateau with a handful of rooms and range of self catering villas just ten minutes from Narbonne. Interiors throughout are fresh and contemporary and the facilities are second to none: gourmet dining, spa, complimentary bikes...A superb pick for a luxurious family holiday.
Aude (Bize-Minervois)
A charming hotel between the plains of Narbonne and Minervois. Rooms are traditional with stone floors and cream drapes. Outdoor pool, gym, sunny terrace, and excellent Mediterranean cuisine. An authentic, quiet, and good value spot.
Aude (The Village)
This tastefully converted chateau, once a 9th Century Abbey, has 12 elegant contemporary rooms, including 2 family suites. The restaurant serves good classic French cuisine made with quality local products and accompanied by the best wines of the region. A chic retreat after a day exploring.
Aude
This charming, rural British-owned farmhouse offers stylish self-contained accommodation. Ideal for families and small groups wanting a comfortable base from which to explore their environs. Open March to October.
Narbonne
Colourful B&B located within tropical gardens just 5 minutes walk from the centre of Narbonne. Rooms are spacious and have been lovingly decorated with all the trimmings. Suited to groups of friends or couples, this is a great spot in the sun to either do very little or explore the surrounding area.
Carcassonne
A gorgeously rustic stone farmhouse B&B just outside Carcassonne. The perfect spot for a more relaxed holiday for families, groups of friends, or romantic getaways. Three simple rooms and two cottages. Very charming.
Carcassonne (Languedoc Roussillon)
Stunning ivy covered country house with an excellent restaurant. Bedrooms, suites and family rooms with four poster beds, fireplaces and tapestries. Beautiful grounds and terraces, swimming pool, billiards and a tennis court. Great for families, groups, and foodies. Excellent value.
Aude (Aude)
A delightful B+B on the banks of the Canal du Midi with five charming guest rooms. Interiors are done in classic French style with Napoleon III furnishings and original fireplaces in some rooms, and there's an idyllic Mediterranean garden. A lovely base for exploring the surrounding area.
Carcassonne (Avenue de Saint-Martin)
A pretty sandstone country house with blue shutters. Rustic rooms and family suites with stone floors, wooden beds, and doors that lead into the garden. A luxurious swimming pool and sun deck for lounging. Ideal relaxation for families, groups, or couples.
Aude
Award-winning boutique guesthouse near the Canal du Midi. Rooms are spacious and light with high ceilings, sash windows and soft hues. Take a picturesque cruise on the canal, tour the local vineyards or hire a bicycle to explore the region.
Aude
A serene countryside retreat just a short drive from Carcassonne. Charming bedrooms with authentic terracotta tiled floors and lime washed walls. Plus a peaceful garden with plunge pool for ultimate relaxation. Casual and laid back, on a stunning wine estate.
Couiza
Elegant chateau-castle with stunning grounds near the riverside, like something from The Lady of Shallot. Elegant high ceilinged rooms and suites with four poster beds and fireplaces. Perfect for groups, families and weddings.
Narbonne
Family-owned three-star boutique hotel situated in the heart of Narbonne. 25 rooms are located within a historic 19th-century mansion. Each room is different and decor ranges from classic to contemporary, all with French shuttered windows. For lunch and dinner, venture out to many options nearby.
Cucugnan
A colourful B&B hotel. Unique rooms are decorated in contemporary style with dashes of colour and modern bathrooms. Charming terrace with hot tub. Library area to relax in. Plethora of sights and trips in the nearby region. Quickly find yourself at home in this great value hotel.
Carcassonne
A large 19th century stone house in the historic centre of Carcassonne. The charming hosts provide a generous breakfast and there is a relaxing terrace and pool area for lounging about in the sun. Tasteful rooms have whitewashed walls, antiques and large sash windows. A stylish base.
Narbonne
Owner-run B&B located on the edge of Narbonne. Just 3 quaint and homely rooms make this ideal for those who appreciate peace and quiet. There is a large garden and outdoor pool; swim and sunbathe or head out to explore the region. Breakfast is included but a car will help for meals taken out.
Carcassonne (Palaja)
A beautiful white stone castle with a house party feel. Simple, modern rooms and suites with wooden beamed ceilings and white washed walls. Great restaurant, extensive gardens with a swimming pool, and a spa. A great choice for families or groups of friends.
Narbonne
Owner-run boutique hotel located in central Narbonne, walking distance from the sites and a short drive from beaches and national parks. The 10 rooms are contemporary fresh and well-designed. There is a bar, small garden and sea-facing roof terrace which serves sharing platters.
Carcassonne (Carcassonne)
A stunning 18th century guesthouse, just outside the medieval city of Carcassonne. The spacious and comfortable rooms are traditionally decorated and boast en suite bathrooms. Enjoy breakfast in the elegant dining room, or in the leafy garden- perfect for sitting out and enjoying the weather.
Carcassonne (Roullens)
This pleasant B&B is nestled in beautiful French countryside offering views of Carcassonne and the Pyrenees. The charming rooms feature antique wood furnishings, exposed beams and old-stone walls. Offering a continental breakfast and a pool and hot tub set in the quaint garden. A beautiful location.
Aude (11290 Montreal – Aude)
Charming and stylish boutique B&B in picturesque Montreal, 20 minutes from Carcassonne. Five unique rooms exude rustic French charm and feature quirky art and marble fireplaces. Delicious homemade breakfast in the morning. Tranquil courtyard with swinging basket chairs and mint bushes.
Aude (Aude)
In the heart of Lagrasse, this boutique hotel blends modern Scandinavian design with a rich, historic past. The minimalist decor features light wood, leather accents, and striking art pieces. A communal kitchen hosts cooking classes, while local wines and curated breakfasts complete the experience.
Aude (Aude)
A charming guest house in Montréal, La Belle Eco blends historic elegance with a relaxed vibe. Featuring stunning Art Deco decor and unique architectural details, it offers a serene escape with a private pool, garden, and sun terrace. Guests can enjoy a coffee shop, bar, and lounge. A special stay.
Carcassonne
Medieval exteriors and contemporary interiors at this chic hotel within the castle's ramparts. Rooms and suites with vaulted ceilings, exposed stone, and rich silk fabrics. Enjoy indulgent pampering from the spa, and relax on the terraces or by the swimming pool.
Carcassonne
Utterly romantic, utterly unique. A hotel nestled in the ramparts of Carcassonne's citadel and surrounded by beautiful gardens. A fairytale building with turrets, exquisite bedrooms, a Michelin star restaurant, and a swimming pool. A special spot for anyone who can afford it.
Carcassonne
A contemporary hotel located just outside the medieval city of Carcassonne. Chic accommodation offers expansive glass sliding doors leading onto a private terrace and garden along with every modern luxury. The restaurant is the real star of the show however, boasting two Michelin stars.
Carcassonne
Previously an inn and museum, this slick hotel overlooks the fortified walls of Carcassonne and fits into the city's ancient heritage. The rooms have an edgy modern decor and come with en suite bathrooms. There is an outdoor pool and buffet breakfast served daily. Perfect for visiting Carcassonne.
Carcassonne
A luxury hotel set in a tranquil spot just minutes from the medieval city of Carcassonne. Elegant rooms are classical in style with floor to ceiling windows, floral motifs, high ceilings and antiques. Boasting both a golf course and a Michelin starred restaurant, this is an indulgent break.
Narbonne (Aude)
This wine resort is a haven for relaxation and fine living, in the heart of Languedoc. The interiors blend rustic charm with modern elegance, featuring natural wood, soft tones, and luxurious textures. Guests can enjoy the spa, gourmet dining, and vineyard views. A perfect escape for wine lovers.
