Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a wonderful place to visit. Millions come to see the fortified hill town every year, and many of them spend time discovering the lower town and the beautiful region around it.

Tourism is the lifeblood of Carcassonne, but 200 years ago the fabrics produced in its factories by the river Aude were exported throughout the western world.

For the past few hundred years most people have lived in the lower town (Ville Basse). The Bastide dates from the time of King Louis IX (Saint-Louis, 1214-70). He brought Carcassonne under French rule and ordered the construction of the Bastide some 800 years ago to house those expelled from the fortified city after the crusades against the Cathars.

The Bastide follows the same checkerboard pattern that was laid out for it in the 1200s. This makes it very easy to find your way around, and there are always interesting things to see in its narrow streets. And, of course, the fortified Cité is only a walk away, across the river.

Our Apartment

Our apartment is in the Place de Lattre de Tassigny in the Bastide. It is next to the Tourist Office and across the street from the Post Office.

This first floor (or second floor) apartment enjoys the morning sun through its east-facing windows overlooking the square. Cafés, bars, restaurants, and shopping are only a short walk from the apartment, which is also very close to the main square, Place Carnot. It is within easy walking distance of the railway station, which makes it an ideal base for those without their own transportation. Those with vehicles can find safe above and below ground parking at a number of locations you can walk to in under ten minutes.