Follow the story of our enchanting weekend in Carcassonne, with arrival on Friday afternoon and departure on Sunday afternoon. Heritage, gastronomy, and luxury at L’Écrin de la Cité.
Friday afternoon – Arrival in Carcassonne and check-in at L'Écrin de la Cité
We chose Villa Grand Panorama for our weekend.
3:30 PM – The automatic gate opens onto L'Écrin Grand Panorama. An elegant building, perched on the hillside, reveals a wooded park, a heated swimming pool, and a breathtaking view of the ramparts. Greeted by Cédric, the owner, we explore the property: 5 suites, a modern kitchen, a jacuzzi, and light-filled lounges. The weekend is shaping up to be perfect.
4:30 pm – We decide to walk to the Medieval City, less than 10 minutes away on foot. On the way, the majestic silhouette of the towers stands out against the golden sky.
Friday evening – Gourmet dinner in the City
7:30 pm – After our first stroll, we booked a table at the restaurant **Le Comte Roger**, located in the heart of the Cité. Refined setting, revisited local products, impeccable service. For starters, semi-cooked foie gras; for the main course, a delicious duck cassoulet; for dessert, a crème brûlée with Madagascar vanilla.
9:30 pm – Back at the villa for a first quiet evening. A relaxing moment in the jacuzzi, facing the illuminated city, beautifully concludes this first day.
Saturday morning – Bastide, market and stroll along the Canal du Midi
9:00 AM – After breakfast on the terrace, we head down to the Bastide Saint-Louis. The market is in full swing in Place Carnot. We stroll among the colorful stalls, sample some Picholine olives, and buy a local goat cheese.
10:30 am – We head towards the **Canal du Midi**, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A peaceful stroll along the banks lined with plane trees, at the pace of the barges. We rent bicycles to cycle along the canal to Trèbes.
Saturday lunchtime – Lunch on the terrace by the canal
12:30 PM – We have lunch at **Le Moulin de Trèbes**, a charming restaurant by the water. On the menu: tuna tartare, grilled sea bream fillet, and homemade chocolate fondant. Simple, fresh cuisine in a bucolic setting.
3:00 PM – Return to the villa for a nap in the shade of the trees.
Saturday afternoon – Full tour of the Medieval City
4:00 PM – We set off again to explore the City. Guided tour of the **Count's Castle**, walk along the ramparts with panoramic views of the vineyards and the Montagne Noire. Children have fun at the **Medieval Camp**: blacksmithing demonstrations, shield making, archery.
Saturday evening – A Michelin-starred gastronomic experience
8:00 PM – Exceptional dinner at **La Barbacane**, a Michelin-recommended restaurant at the Hôtel de la Cité. Wine pairings, elegant service, and refined dishes: langoustine carpaccio, roast pigeon, Grand Marnier soufflé.
11:00 PM – Return to L'Écrin Grand Panorama for a cozy evening chatting while admiring the illuminated ramparts. A gentle and intimate atmosphere.
Sunday morning – Lake Cavayère and brunch at the villa
9:30 a.m. – Departure for **Lake Cavayère**, 10 minutes away. Walk or jog around the lake as you wish, treetop adventure activities for children. The air is mild, the light golden.
11:30 am – Back at the gîte for a homemade brunch: pastries, fresh fruit, scrambled eggs, and coffee. The aroma of freshly baked bread fills the house. We recommend Boulangerie de la Cité, located near the Hôtel de la Cité.
Sunday afternoon – Last moments and memories
1:00 PM – We enjoy the pool and the view of the City one last time.
2:30 pm – The suitcases are packed. We make a detour to a local wine cellar to buy some Blanquette de Limoux and Minervois wine.
3:30pm – Departure with the desire to return very soon and test the other villa in L'écrin de la Cité, the Villa Cœur de Vignes.
