RESTAURANTS
There is no shortage of food and fantastic cuisine in the Languedoc, this is France after all! Local village bistrots serve hearty and authentic wine and food, including cassoulet, the region’s speciality.
There are also a multitude of higher-end restaurants for a finer dining experience, many within 20 min drive. Most notable is the two-Michelin-starred Restaurant du Parc, located at the foot of the famous Carcassonne citadel, and in the citadel itself is the Hôtel de la Cité and its Barbacane restaurant, which also serves outstanding food.
Slightly further afield is the Auberge du Vieux Puits. Run by Gilles Goujou, the restaurant has three Michelin stars and has been described as displaying some of the most sophisticated cuisine in France.
WINE ROUTES
With its 700 000 acres of vineyards, the Languedoc is the largest wine-producing region in the world and was the first French region to be introduced to wine-making by the Romans. The Corbières area that surrounds the property is home to some outstandingly good-value quality wines, many of which are now organically produced by a new generation of young winemakers.
This is red wine country, although interesting whites and rosés are now also beginning to emerge, and the region is also home to the first sparkling wines, the Blanquette and Crémant de Limoux, precursors to Champagne. Slightly further afield the Minervoix region is also fantastic for reds and sweet whites. Should you wish for a bespoke wine tour, this can be prearranged upon request.
FOOD & MARKETS
The area is home to some truly phenomenal food markets and shops. For an authentic experience, the Carcassonne market takes place every Saturday morning, and you will find it abounds with fresh vegetables and local produce.
In the stunning medieval village of Mirepoix there is also a superb Monday market, surrounded by bustling cafés and bars. Arguably the best food market in the region though is the beautiful covered Narbonne market. Open every morning and bursting with life, you can find anything you can think of, including typical creamy fragrant cheeses, local jams and honeys, olive oil, and fresh seafood.
For a shop that showcases all the best local produce, look no further than La Ferme, located in the centre of Carcassonne, which is truly a food lovers paradise.