The Region and what it offers |
The little hameau of Cahuzac sits between two of France’s most beautiful and almost undiscovered regions the Aude and the Ariege historically known as Cathar Country where the crusade against the Cathars took place at the beginning of the 13th century. A most varied and impressive landscape from the wild and dramatic mountainous peaks of the Pyrenees, the gentle foothills and the flat planes of the Lauragais. Sunflowers, cereal crops and vineyards flourish under big skies. The climate is notorious for over 300 days sunshine a year. The Aude is part of the Langudoc Rousillion which is the biggest wine growing area in France—here you can sample local wines Cabardes, Clappe, Corbiers, Fitou, Malapere, Minervois, Muscat and most impressive Blanquette Limoux the regions own sparkling champagne. You won’t have to go far before you come across a cave open for wine tasting. Almost in every viewpoint are Castles and Abbeys full of history. Medieval towns and villages sit on hillsides and grand cathedrals adorn the sun kissed market squares, open air cafés, French markets and ambience. This is the region often featured on TV. “French Leave” (Book also of the same title) where John Burton Race a Two star Michelin chef came to discover some of France’s best regional foods, also “French Odyssey” book and TV series with chef Rick Stein. Cassoulet a bean, duck, and pork casserole made in Castlenaudary. The gourmet rich liver from ducks and geese “Foie Gras” with it’s regional capital in Belpech, pigeon, garlic soup, truffles, wild boar, aligot which is sold at local markets and is akin to smooth mashed potato full of pungent garlic, delicious, and not forgetting, the boulangerie’s and fromageries where to walk past and not feel hungry is almost impossible. Nuts, figs, apricots, peaches, cherries as big and bright as huge marbles hang from heavily laden boughs, and wild strawberries grow among the banks on slow country roads. Walking — Along quiet country roads, in forests for an hours amble or for days in the mountains this area is perfect. Cycling— Cyclists from all over the world visit the region. The terrain can be as challenging as you want. The region was part of the leg in the 2003 tour de France. Fishing—clean local rivers compliment the lake fishing at Bordebasse. Golf – Carcassonne Golf course is 35 mins away. Ski and Sea– You can be on ski’s and on the pistes within the hour at Monts d’olmes. The sea and beaches of Narbonne to the east are also within the hour. Painting—Big skies, beautiful landscapes, sunflowers and iris’s. Where ever you look is a scene ready for painting. For those interested, local classes can be arranged. Studio’s here or 10 mins away. Horse Riding– Superb country for hacking along on horseback, riding stables within 15 mins. White Water Rafting- for the more adventurous, white water rafting is available in the cool rivers of the Ariege. 40mins away Cruising the Canal du Midi– 30 mins away. Take a cruise for the afternoon along the canal du midi, built in the 17th century, mountains to one side of you, vineyards to the other. Bird watching– The region is home to amongst others Buzzards, Eagles, Montague Harriers, kites soar overhead, bee eaters visit us every summer. Spain and Andorra are literally within 2 hours, you can be off in the morning, have a leisurely lunch and be back in the afternoon. Gill & Jimmy Masters BordeBasse 11420 Cahuzac France Telephone 0033 468 605245 Email gilnjim@bordebasse.com |
