About the area
Aude takes it’s name from the river running through this department in the region of Occitainie. The region stretches between Toulouse and Montpellier, Aude is bordered by the Mediterranean on its eastern side, the Montangne Noire (Black Mountains) in the north and the Pyrenees to the south.
There are numerous stunning, hilltop villages, gorges, lakes, vineyards and beaches within the region.
Getting Around
Explore Outdoors
Cycling
The Languedoc-Roussillon region in Southern France is a prime cycling destination, frequently featured in the Tour de France due to its diverse terrain, ranging from Mediterranean coastlines to challenging Pyrenean foothills. It offers scenic routes through vineyards, historical sites like Carcassonne, and areas around Montpellier, Nîmes, and Narbonne, making it ideal for both professional racing and leisure cycling tours.
Tour De FranceGolf
Enjoy unforgettable rounds at Golf de Carcassonne, an exceptional 18-hole course with breathtaking Pyrenees views and Mediterranean sunshine. Perfect for holidaymakers, it offers immaculate fairways, welcoming staff, a relaxed clubhouse, delicious local cuisine, and year-round play. Combine sport, scenery, and southern French charm for the ultimate golf getaway experience.
Golf de CarcassonneCanal
Discover the magic of Canal du Midi, a chance to admire some exceptionally beautiful scenery and remarkable engineering. This historical gem of southern France takes visitors on a journey through time, cruise peacefully past locks, charming towns, and iconic monuments while savouring local cuisine. Rent a permit-free boat and enjoy an unforgettable, relaxing water adventure with family or friends, perfect for all ages.
Canal du midiHiking
Hiking in the Aude offers an exceptional variety of landscapes: ponds, the cliffs of Leucate, valleys and hills where vines, pine trees and garrigue flourish, the shady forests of the Montagne Noire or the Aude Pyrenees… Each season is different, offering a palette of colours and moods that make the Aude so endearing.
Hiking GuidesSkiing
Swap crowded northern resorts for sunshine and space in the South of France. Ski the stunning Pyrenees with breathtaking mountain views, crisp air, and quieter slopes. After exhilarating days on the snow, unwind with regional cuisine and relaxed village charm. A perfect blend of adventure, scenery, and southern French lifestyle.
SkiingVineyards
Discover the authentic charm of the Vineyards of Aude on a scenic wine-tour. Wander ancient vineyards, meet passionate winemakers, and savour diverse reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines with local food pairings. Enjoy tastings, guided walks, and unique experiences amid beautiful countryside and historic estates.
VineyardsRestaurants
Le Bistro d’Alice
(04 68 47 25 51)
26 rue Chartran, Caracassonne
Great atmosphere and reasonable price. Owned by the foodie shop La Ferme next door which is well worth a visit. Open all year round
Brasserie a 4 Temps
(04 68 11 44 44)
2 Boulevard Barbès, Carcassonne
Owned by the 2 star Michelin Chef, Frank Putelat. The fixed daily 3 course menu is amazing value. If you like what’s on offer! Otherwise there is a good choice available from the a la carte menu. Open all year round
Le Verre d’Un
(04 68 71 43 99)
Rue Verdun, Carcassonne
Lovely wine bar with gardens at the rear. On the corner of Square Gambetta and Rue Verdon. Open all year round.
Devine Comedie
(34 68 72 30 36)
Boulevard Jean Jaures, Carcassonne
Traditional French cooking with some great specialities as well as fabulous pizzas! Winter opening hours vary.
Compte Roger
(04 68 11 93 40)
14 Rue Saint-Louis, 11000 Carcassonne
It’s our go to restaurant for a special occasion. Open all year
L’Escargot
(0 892 31 62 05)
7 Rue Violet le Duc, 11000 Carcassonne
Does wonderful cooked to order tapas. Open all year round.
Le Moulin de Trebes
(04 68 78 97 57)
2 Le Moulin, 11800 Trèbes
A beautiful setting right on the triple lock at Trèbes. Modern French cuisine. Lunch time offers the best value menu.
Trattoria Napoli
(04 68 78 83 08 )
12 Av. Pierre Curie, 11800 Trèbes
Italian, Pizza, Pasta but with a meat and fish option too. Vibrant canal side position. Closed Dec-Feb
Poissonnerie Moderne
(04 68 78 26 72)
8 Av. Pierre Curie, 11800 Trebes
The best fish restaurant in the area! Meat option also available. Canal side location. Open all year round.
Les Vignes de Bacchus
(06 73 71 47 66)
10 Av. Pierre Curie, 11800 Trèbes
Fabulous, lively bar offering a range of tapas. Closed Dec-Mar
Restaurant Bourdasso
(04 68 78 08 31)
Bourdasso, 11220 Pradelles-en-Val
Fine dining this restaurant offers a modern take on traditional Italian dishes – not a pizza insight! This family run business also has its own herd of Buffalo and produce their own buratto /mozzarella, which is absolutely delicious.
Open all year and set in the converted, wine cave, with tables inside and out.
Café de la Terrasse
(04 68 79 05 38)
2 Pl. François Mitterand, 11800 Marseillette
Only a 5 min walk up the road. Lunchtime, set menu is great value. Only serves, pizza, burger and steak in the evening. Kitchen closes at 9pm and the Bar is closed on Monday.