Explore the Area of Tuchan



Tuchan is nestled in the picturesque region of Occitanie in Southern France. At the base  of stunning 917m Mont Tauch, It offers a charming blend of natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for tourism. Surrounded by rolling vineyards Tuchan is also an enchanting setting for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, horse back riding and wine tasting. The historic architecture includes the 12th century Cathar Castle the Château d'Aguilar, soon to be a world UNESCO heritage sight.  An authentic village that warmly welcomes all types of visitors from around the world.

Scenery



The scenery around Tuchan is characterized by its stunning natural beauty, as it is situated in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains and surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and rugged landscapes.


Wine

Tuchan and its surrounding region are renowned for vineyards that produce high-quality wines, the most well know being Fitou the oldest appellation in the region, created in 1948. Local wine co -operative Caves du Mont Tauch is the largest producer of Fitou. You may also enjoy discovering the wines of Domaine de Rolland, Domaine Gabinato Fresquet, Domaine Jones, Bertrand- Bergé, La Bergerie Du Bialas, Domaine De Roudene, and Domaine Poc a Poc to name a few.


The Château d'Aguilar


The 12th-century castle, one of the so-called Cathar castles, s located in the commune of Tuchan in the Aude département of France. The castle consists of an inner 12th century keep, surrounded by an outer fortification from the 13th century.  The strategic location of the castle on a hill overhanging the plain of Tuchan allowed control and protection of the Corbières Massif. 


Local Produce


Many local products such as Honey, Essential Oils and Cheese can be found in Tuchan. Find your way to Domaine de Rolland to find their shop full of an array of local produce. Or - take a walk up to Emeline's Honey Shop where you will also find local cheese, gifts, a tapas bar and medieval style wine.

Dining



In  Tuchan, you'll find a variety of dining options ranging from traditional French cuisine to regional specialities often with a Catalan influence. Tuchan's speciality and  charm lies in its authenticity and the opportunity to savour genuine French cuisine in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. 

Camping Domaine La Peiriere.

Le Globe Cafe

Le Relais d'Aguilar




Sentier cathare (GR 367)

This Great Hiking Trail is crossing the department Aude from east to west and will take you from the mediterranean beaches to the Pyrenees' balcon.

About 250 kms and 12 days of hiking are waiting for you, from Port la Nouvelle to Foix.

This itinerary has a rich history and you will discover many cathar castles on the way, built on top of impressive cliffs.
Remarkable points of interest

– Cathar castles : Aguilar, Quéribus, Peyrepertuse, Montségur, Puilaurens…
– Bugarach's peak and his legends
– Galamus' gorges and hermitage Saint Antoine

... And many other great discoveries on the day !
A diversity of landscapes

Mediterranean beaches, vineyards on hills, garrigue, century old forests, valleys, gorges and vertiginous cliffs...

You will go through preserved and often protected areas, with a rich fauna and flora (raptors, orchids...)



Restaurants


These are a few of our favourite restaurants in the region some close to Tuchan - (transport needed) some in Carcassonne.


Chez Prano - Durban Corbières

04 68 33 49 68


Le 28 PARDI - Cascastel- Des _ Corbières

04 68 44 24 23


La Table du Curé - Cucugnan

04 68 45 01 46


La P'tite Ardoise - Padern

04 68 33 19 31


Domaine de ROMBEAU-

Rivesaltes

04 68 64 35 35


Château Ollieux Romanis - Montsérat 

04 68 43 35 20


Cul D'Oursin - Leucate Plage

04 68 40 92 06


Agapé - Carcassonne

04 68 72 12 10


Le Verre D'un - Carcassonne

04 68 71 43 99


Au Lard et au Cochon- Carcassonne

09 83 73 09 02


Le Brasserie à 4 Temps - Carcassonne

04 68 11 44 44





Markets

Tuchan and the surrounding villages all have local markets
where you can purchase fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and other local delicacies directly from farmers and producers.

All the markets , attic sales etc can be found via Vide Grenier .org . Link below.

Learn About Carcassonne



Our La Maison des Chapeliers Holiday Home is based in Carcassonne, a well-known city in southern France, located in the Occitanie region. The city is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and rich history dating back to ancient times.


The Cité de Carcassonne is the main attraction and the heart of the city. This medieval fortress is exceptionally well-preserved and consists of ramparts, towers, and a castle within its double ring of walls.


Carcassonne and its surrounding region are known for their delicious cuisine and excellent wines. Visitors can sample traditional dishes such as cassoulet (a hearty bean stew with meat) and indulge in tastings of the region's renowned wines, including Corbières and Minervois.


Carcassonne is situated along the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides along the canal towpaths, admire the picturesque bridges and locks, and even take boat cruises to explore the surrounding countryside.