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The 4 castles of Lastours: the complete guide
The 4 castles of Lastours: the complete guide
The 4 castles of Lastours: the complete guide
Looking for a unique experience? Why not try a tour of the four castles of Lastours? You’ll be immersed in the heart of a fascinating medieval history: that of the royal fortresses of Languedoc. This Cathar site, on the edge of the Montagne Noire, will delight you if you’re a history buff. To find out more about visiting the castles of Lastours, we’ve set out all the details below.
Top 3 things to see in Lastours
The Montfermier Viewpoint: The "Postcard" View
This is THE must-see viewpoint not to be missed. Located on the hill facing the castles, this viewpoint offers a breathtaking panorama of the alignment of the four towers (Cabaret, Tour Régine, Surdespine and Quertinheux). In fact, it is the only place from which you can capture the entire complex in a single glance.
Our tip: the ideal time to photograph the whole site with good lighting is in the late afternoon. You will benefit from a golden light that beautifully enhances the limestone.
The Excavated Medieval Village (The Castrum)
Beneath the Cabaret towers, archaeologists have uncovered the remains of the former medieval village. Unlike many castles where dwellings have disappeared, here you can wander among the foundations of the houses and understand the daily life of the populations who lived under the protection of the lords of Cabaret before the Albigensian Crusade. A real journey back in time!
The Trou de la Cité Cave
Hidden beneath the mountain that carries the castles lies a fascinating underground network. The Trou de la Cité Cave served as a refuge and a secret passage. Its exploration (offered during certain themed visits) adds a mystical and "adventure" dimension to the site. It reminds us that the defense of Lastours was not only played out on the ramparts, but also in the depths of the earth.
Did you know? The "Tour Régine" is the only one of the four that was entirely built by the King of France after the conquest, to assert his power over the three other rebellious towers!
How can I visit the four châteaux in Lastours?
Self-Guided Visit of the 4 Castles of Lastours
Whether you are in a group or simply traveling with family or on your own, step into the history of the 4 castles of Lastours, at the gateway to the Montagne Noire: explore the castles, their defensive strengths, imagine their construction, and understand medieval life and the Cathar epic. Discover other great sites of the Cathar Country: Carcassonne, just 15 minutes away, Quéribus, Peyrepertuse… A self-guided visit of the 4 castles of Lastours is, of course, possible: simply go to the castle entrance; a visitor guide will be provided (available in 6 languages). It includes a detailed map of the site and its history.
Ticket for the self-guided visit of the 4 castles
School Visits
The 4 castles of Lastours welcome school groups during their opening period. Discover the program designed by our agency:
The medieval history of Lastours
In the 12th century, Lastours was the fief of the lords of Cabaret, fervent supporters of Catharism and masters of rich iron mines. During the Albigensian Crusade, this fortified complex became a hotbed of fierce resistance: thanks to its rugged terrain, it remained impregnable in the face of Simon de Montfort’s assaults.
It was not until 1229 that the lords capitulated under royal pressure. To crush the spirit of rebellion once and for all, the King of France had the medieval village razed to the ground and the present-day towers (including the Tour Régine) rebuilt. What had been a bastion of freedom thus became an iron sentinel in the service of the French crown.
Unspoilt countryside in the heart of the Languedoc
Nestled in the foothills of the Montagne Noire, the village of Lastours is a wild, unspoilt setting where stone meets the garrigue. Amidst cypresses, holm oaks and limestone cliffs, the four castles overlook a steep-sided valley through which the River Orbiel winds. This Mediterranean landscape, which is listed and protected, offers a striking contrast between the austerity of military architecture and the gentleness of unspoilt biodiversity. It is the ideal place for total immersion, far from the hustle and bustle, in tune with the rhythm of the wind and the sounds of nature.
FAQ | Frequently Asked Questions
What are the four castles in Lastours, and where are they located?
The four towers are called Cabaret, Tour Régine, Surdespine and Quertinheux. They stand on a rocky ridge overlooking the village of Lastours, in the Aude, about 20 minutes’ drive north of Carcassonne, in the heart of the Montagne Noire.
Can we visit them, and how?
Yes! Access is on foot via a walking trail that links the four buildings. The starting point is at the reception and ticket office in the village. For a panoramic view without having to walk, you can also drive to the Montfermier Lookout Point (located on the hill opposite).
What are the opening hours and admission prices?
The site is open from March to November. For the latest opening hours, please visit www.lastourisme.fr
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Price: from €4.50
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The ticket includes access to the castles and the viewpoint.
How long does it take to visit the four castles?
The full route is a loop that takes around 2h00 to 2h30 to complete. The trail requires a good pair of trainers. For the viewpoint alone, allow just 15 to 20 minutes for a photo break.
Is the site accessible with pets?
Yes, dogs are allowed throughout the site (trails and castles), provided they are kept on a lead. Please bring water for them.
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