Located in the heart of Cathar country about 30 kilometres south of Carcassonne, the historic town of Limoux is home to a number of events and attractions that celebrate this region's very individual culture and language. A pretty town on the banks of the River Aude, Limoux has become a popular day trip destination for those staying in Carcassonne and local people have done their best to make the tourists feel welcome, opening up a good selection of cafes, restaurants and tourist attractions. Winter is the best time to visit, between January and Easter, when the town comes alive during its traditional annual festival.
Limoux is a great first port of call for those who know little about the Cathar region and its history, as the town is home to an unusual tourist attraction called Catharama, an audio-visual show telling the story of the Cathar people. As an introduction to the long and complex history of this part of France, Catharama does a great job, and even children will enjoy the recreated battle scenes! Back outside, the main square in Limoux is where everything happens, from many of the events in the annual winter festival to the appearance of pavement cafes in summer where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. The houses here, on the Place de la Republique, are the oldest in Limoux; timber-framed and with stone arcades on the ground floor. The grander houses tend to be situated on the banks of the Aude, east of the main square.
If you grow tired of sightseeing, you can always relax by the banks of the river, or take a boat trip in the summer months. Limoux is also home to an impressive botanical garden, with plant species from all over the world. While visitors are encouraged not to sit on the grass, it is still a pleasant place to spend an hour away from the tourist crowds. The region around Limoux is well known for its wine, and there are several tours to local vineyards run by the tourist office. Ideal if everyone in your party, including the driver, wants to sample the local produce. Many of the bars and restaurants in town will serve local wine too, and there is even a wine festival in Limoux, which usually takes place at the end of the winter festival.
The winter festival itself features cultural, musical and theatrical events and shows, all performed in the traditional Occitan language. Many people in this part of France still speak some Occitan, though French is still the main language. However, the residents of Cathar country are fiercely proud of their heritage and love to celebrate it during the annual “fecas”.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Limoux? Then below is a selection of gites in Limoux and villas in Limoux that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
