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Nature and history, here are the two words that perfectly describe the department of Aude. Shared between two mountain ranges, the Montagne Noire to the north and the Pyrenees to the south, it is also bathed by the warm waters of the Mediterranean to the east. Many peoples inhabited its reliefs and plains and left it a remarkable architectural heritage.

The history of the Aude was marked by the strong presence of Catharism in the department, a religious movement born of Christianity that developed between the 10th and 14th centuries in Europe. On the reliefs of Audois, the great Cathar castles proudly overlook the valley. Among them, the four castles of the site of Lastours rise on the Black Mountain and dominate the village of the same name. Held by the Cabaret lords, very open about religions, they played an important role during the Crusade of the Albigenses in the 13th century. This historic event saw the Catholic Church pursue the Cathars in the south of France and punish those who protected them. Another remarkable site of the Cathar country, the former royal fortress of Quéribus is one of the "five sons of Carcassonne", a set of defense castles strategically positioned to monitor the border with Aragon. From the heights of its keep, the grandeur of the surrounding landscapes is revealed, from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean.

The visit not to be missed when staying in the Aude, is of course the famous City of Carcassonne. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1997, this group of medieval fortifications welcomes millions of visitors every year. Since its renovation in the 19th century, led by the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc, the charm of its imposing ramparts and its Romanesque castle has attracted tourists from all over the world. Many traders provide a quality tourist service within the city itself. In July, the Festival de Carcassonne illuminates the nights of the City in performances of theater, dance and opera as well as concerts of French and international artists.

Holidaymakers looking for relaxation and bathing in clear waters will not be disappointed by the seaside resorts. In Narbonne-Plage, you can soak up the sun on its 5 km of sandy beach where you will also find a children's playground and beach volleyball and beach rugby tournaments. Sports enthusiasts will also appreciate the leisure center which offers water sports (sailing, sea kayaking, jet skiing ,...), outdoor (archery, canyoning, mountain biking ,...) and indoor (fitness, bodybuilding, swimming, climbing).