
Your Visit:
The must-see
The must-see
Located about 1 hour and 40 minutes away, the city offers direct access to the iconic Pic de Bugarach, renowned for its numerous UFO sightings and symbolically significant in the world of science fiction cinema, as it inspired Steven Spielberg in writing and selecting the narrative for his film Close Encounters of the Third Kind. The region of Rennes-le-Château and Rennes-les-Bains is also famous for its many myths and legends of lost treasures, and is believed to hold and inherit unspeakable secrets related to the Ark of the Covenant and Mary Magdalene. What better way to enjoy your time at the conference than to explore and visit this beautiful region? We have selected for you a few must-see locations, key stops on your adventure in the Cathar country.
In Carcassonne
More information on the tourist office website.

The Medieval City
The city is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a true historical gem. Its impressive ramparts and majestic towers invite visitors on a journey through time. The iconic site, rich in legends and tales of knights, attracts thousands of curious visitors every year. As you wander through its cobbled streets, you’ll discover unique architectural heritage and an enchanting atmosphere.

The Canal du Midi
The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a 17th-century engineering marvel that links the Garonne River to the Mediterranean. Spanning 240 kilometers, it offers a picturesque landscape punctuated by plane trees, charming villages, and exceptional viewpoints. Serving as both a navigable waterway and a walking path, the canal attracts nature and history enthusiasts, offering a unique perspective of the region.

The Bastide Saint-Louis
The Bastide Saint-Louis, also known as the Ville Basse, is the vibrant heart of Carcassonne, founded in the 13th century. Designed in a grid layout, it is characterized by its narrow streets and lively squares, such as the famous Place Carnot. The Bastide is full of historic buildings, bustling cafés, and shops, providing a glimpse into local life. As you stroll through its alleys, you can admire the typical medieval architecture while enjoying a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Cavalière Lake
Located near Carcassonne, the lake is a popular natural space known for its beauty and outdoor activities. With its turquoise waters surrounded by lush hills, it provides an ideal setting for swimming, kayaking, and hiking. Designed to accommodate families, the site features beaches, bike paths, and picnic areas. In summer, it becomes a popular relaxation spot, perfect for escaping the heat while enjoying nature.
A must-see around Carcassonne

The mystical hike of Pic de Bugarach
A protected gem, rich in diversity, it is the highest point of the Corbières, a natural region straddling the Pyrénées-Orientales and Aude.
Perhaps you will be lucky enough to capture strange manifestations in your photos.

The Legendary Church of Rennes-le-Château
Dedicated to Mary Magdalene, the church fascinates due to the mysterious discoveries made by Abbé Bérenger Saunière at the end of the 19th century. Christian Doumergue, a historian specializing in the site, emphasizes that the strange symbols chosen by the abbé – such as the demon Asmodeus – and the wealth of the church may conceal a secret related to the mysteries of Christianity or the Knights Templar.

Rennes-les-Bains
This charming spa town nestled in the Aude Valley is renowned for its healing hot springs. The village, steeped in history, attracts many visitors seeking wellness and spirituality. Roman ruins and the surrounding landscapes, marked by local legends, add a mysterious dimension to the area. Rennes-les-Bains is also the perfect starting point for exploring the natural and cultural treasures of the region.

Galamus: its mysterious monastery and gorges
Perched in the heart of the gorges of the same name, the monastery is a unique pilgrimage site shrouded in mystery. Since the Middle Ages, hermits and pilgrims have sought refuge there, drawn by the spiritual calm of this spectacular setting. The architecture of the monastery, perfectly integrated with the rock, and its isolated location, add to the enigmatic aura surrounding this extraordinary place. Stories tell that it may house a mysterious door leading to the center of the Earth.