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Hidden Gems of Saissac, Aude, Languedoc-Roussillon

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Nestled in the beautiful Aude department of the Languedoc-Roussillon region, Saissac is a captivating destination brimming with wonders to explore. Begin your journey at the Saissac Castle, an impressive medieval fortress offering spectacular views. For hiking enthusiasts, the Lake of Saint-Ferréol provides picturesque trails through the Black Mountain countryside.
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Walking around Saissac

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Take a walk around Saissac.
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The Mills of the Dure river
6.3 km

The Mills of the Dure river

The waters of the Dure, loaded with shale, have the property of degreasing sheep's wool. Very early on, fulling mills were installed there: the wool was entirely processed here to be transformed into cloth. Signs: Yellow Markings Departure from the parking lot at the north exit of the village. Just after the Saint-Denis gate, take the D8 for 150m uphill. At the first fork in the road on the right, go past the farm "Bellevue". View of the Alzeau and Dure gorges and the village on its promontory. On the first part of the circuit, the paths leading to the various (private) mills follow one another. These took advantage of the driving force of the water to turn mill stones and other machines. The particular quality of the water of the Dure, which had the necessary properties for cleaning and wool degreasing, allowed the development of a textile industry. After crossing the hamlet of "Franc", cut the D8 and take the road opposite, the path heads west towards the Alzeau valley. You will enjoy the view of the Pyrenees. Arriving at the pig farm, turn left on the downhill path. 600 m further on, a fork on the right will make you join the Alzeau river by going down in the undergrowth. The river lost its mills in the 13th century when part of its water was captured to feed the Canal du Midi (gully of the Montagne Noire). Follow the river up to the bridge of "l'Isoule" dating from the 12th century: observe the two arches and the remarkable ferns on the nearby banks. Go back on the path for 100m, take the time to observe the traces of cart wheels in the stone and then turn right. Slight ascent in the shade of the vegetation then pass under a power line. At the crossroads with the track, continue straight ahead. Then quickly the markers will guide you back to the undergrowth, allowing you to discover a capitelle (dry stone hut). It is visible from a small layon on the left. When you get back to the main track, a little further on the right, a promontory with a view of the “Chateau de Villeneuve” and the gardens below. At the exit of the wood, a large open area with a breathtaking view over the Pyrenees; and back to the village of Montolieu.

2 h
6.1 km
Very easy
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To the abbey of Villelongue
7.4 km

To the abbey of Villelongue

Follow the old path that used to link the village to the abbey of Villelongue. Signs: Yellow markings The trail follows the old path that linked the village to the abbey and starts at the top of the village near the towers and medieval garden, at the foot of the Carsac stone. Take the small paved road to the left of the sign showing the three footpaths of Saint-Martin-le-Vieil. At the fork, leave the path "sentier des Capitelles" on the left , and carry on straight ahead. At the level of the vineyards, a marker will direct you to a path separating the different plots of land. This one will lead you through the vineyards and then, in the undergrowth, on a slightly sandy earth path. After a short hour's walk (half of the circuit), we arrive on the part of the path overlooking the abbey. We can then see the abbey, majestic, in its bosky bower. A visit of the abbey and the splendid garden is a must. For those who wish, a variant will take you to an old lime kiln.To reach it, cross the small bridge over the "La Vernassonne" and just after the last building on the left, take the path that climbs gently upwards: count one-hour round trip but it is worth it ! The return trip promises to be very pleasant; to do so, take the track starting from the parking lot and go along the edge of the wood. Then at the crossroads, turn right, make a small effort before reaching the plateau. The wooded part will be very nice in summer. When you reach the paved road, continue and then take the track on the right and, a little further on, a track on your right. During the descent at 50m on your right stands a “capitelle” (dry-stone hut) with as always, the doorway to the south.  As soon as you discover it, you will recognize the village and its two towers of the feudal castle, announcing you the end of the hike.

2 h
9.2 km
Very easy
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The Obscure Combe
10 km

The Obscure Combe

The territory of the marsh harrier, the wild rabbit, the red partridge... amongst the capitelles (dry stone huts), remains of the pastoralism activity, overwhelmed by the natural scents... Signs: Yellow markings From the village, take the direction of the hamlet of Caunettes Hautes. At the bottom of the Côte de Regord, on your left, a picnic area indicates the start of the loop. Once in front of the sign, take the path going to the right and crossing the pine forest. At the end of this one, the plateau covered with garrigue appears, notched by fancy streams where thyme is omnipresent. Take the small wooden bridge which spans the brook of La Combe, progress in the middle of boxwoods, kermes oaks and junipers. Then the path crosses the D48, the yellow markings take you to the track on the right allowing you to discover the vineyard. At the road, turn left towards Caunettes-Hautes. At the entrance of the hamlet, turn left again and take the track in the centre of the big open area.  As you approach the first grove, the markings will direct you to the right, inviting you to follow the steep path. Return to the main track on the right and continue to discover the Combe Obscure (name of the stream) which cuts deeply into the limestone plateau and offers a viewpoint revealing the rocky bars of the domaine Bertrandou. Further on, after crossing the D48 again, at the crossroads of the tracks, turn left for 700m/0.4mi. On a clear day, the Pyrenees block the horizon behind the Malepère massif. Arriving at a crossroads of tracks with three possibilities, turn left as you go down South. You will pass through "Garouilles", boxwood, lavender and rosemary. Once in the pine forest where a last crossroads awaits you, the signpost will tell you to go left to find the picnic area.

2 h
5.7 km
Very easy
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Dry stone and scrubland
13 km

Dry stone and scrubland

This route takes you on a journey of discovery of landscapes shaped by men. On limestone plateaus covered with scrubland that had to be cleared to make them suitable for cultivation, stones were used to build low walls, enclosures or dry stone huts named "capitelles".These constructions, originally built for agriculture (cereals and then vines) were used as temporary shelters by shepherds in case of bad weather. There are very few specific pastoral buildings: there are enclosures either to keep the sheep or to enclose the crops and protect them. Signs : Yellow, follow the track with the sign “pierres seches”The path climbs up to the plateau via Avenue des Capitelles, running alongside,  at times , an old draille (a passageway for herds) on the left.At the top of the housing estate, take the path to the large enclosure wall on the left (interpretation panel).On your right, the path goes through the scrubland.Follow the yellow markings, reinforced by white signs. Numerous dry stone constructions and typical vegetation (boxwood, thyme, broom, etc.).The plateau offers beautiful views over the Carcassonne plain and the Pyrenees.After arriving on a track, turn right for about 500m then left towards the trees.Carry on through the open countryside and down a winding path.Once on the track, fork right for 400m.One last time to the right in the undergrowth, take a small shady path, which is very pleasant in the summer, going back up to the arrival point.

2 h
5 km
Very easy
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Le Vallon de la Valette
14 km

Le Vallon de la Valette

At the bottom of a valley runs the small stream of la Valette, with an unregular and weak flow. It goes through a limestone land, due to the sea advancing 52 thousand years ago. You will encounter Aragons botanical path. On the side of the valley, limestones vary with marls used as a support for terrace culture. Except some vineyards, vegetation is mostly Mediterranean. It is characterised by the importance of long lasting leaves species, which give those green landmark even in the winter. Yellow markingsStart by going left of the permanent podium. The path starts by the crossing of a stream, then goes on following it back up. You will then need to turn right in order to cross the stream on bridge, and turn left right away and walk between the two hills. Walk along an exposed large field (used to be some vines) in order to go back up the hillside along the stream.Further , a small wooden bridge will allow you to cross it again. The path will progressively go upwards  to the Font de l’Orme plateau, in an undergrowth,  very enjoyable during summer.Turn left once then again 100 m further.                                                Go past a shelter under a rock. Carry on straight ahead, the landmark opens and allows you to admire the valley and its rocky escarpments before your sight drifts to the village built on a buttress.Once out of the undergrowth, the path goes down to the left, leave the starting points on the right. Once down, you will find the "La Valette" stream and on the right, the path leading back to the parking lot.

1 h
4.3 km
Very easy
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What to do in Saissac

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Discover surprising activities in Saissac and book the ones you like.
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Via Ferrata in Mazamet
21 km

Via Ferrata in Mazamet

Looking for big thrills? Desire to surpass yourself? The via ferrata of Mazamet is for you! In the the Arnette gorges, in Mazame, via ferrata and giant zip line, under the footbridge. Acrobats and adventurers will enjoy this safe activity which completes, since 2022 the current tourist offer. This land is located in a protected natural site carried by an outstanding historic heritage (Cormouls-Houlès remarkabe gardens, St-Sauveur ruins, classified archeological site), and a rich and diverse wildlife. Nearby, after crossing the Mazamet's Hymalayan footbridge at 70 meters high over the Arnette river, you will find the medieval village of Hautpoul and its gardens, as well as, on the GR7, the House of Wood and Toy, its arboretum and its orchard. A nice wander along the 'Art Net' to picnic in th the shadows of chestnut trees. - Via Ferrata with ziplines : . Access: 20 mn . Drop : 90 m . Length: 880 ml . Difficulty: AD à D+ . Duration: 2 h 30 . Way back: 20 mn - Via Ferrata without zipline . Access: 30 mn . Drop: 110 m . Length: 370 ml . Difficulty: AD à D+ . Duration: 1 h 30 . Way back: 20 mn - Via Ferrata (upper part of Hautpoul) . Access: 20 mn . Drop: 60 m . Length: 130 ml . Difficulty: PD . Duration: 45 mn . Way back: 25 mn Minimum gear required: . Helmet . Harness . Closed shoes . Rest Karabiner & short lanyard . 2 wide aperture autoblock gate karabiners . Karabiner aerolink specifically for continuous safe line . Lanyard aeroline Ferrata . Double lanyard with shock absorber . Gloves General recommendations: Access to the Via Ferrata of Mazamet is prohibited: - to children measuring less than 1,35m and minors who are not accompanied by un experienced adult ; - outside opening hours and over night ; - in adverse weather conditions and especially when the route is slipppery and affected by snow, ice and stormy conditions. You agree to undertake this activity at your own risk. If you have little or no experience in this type of activity, please contact the services of a guide. Equipment rental: Mazamet Tourist Office Online booking: www.tourisme-castresmazamet.com/billetterie Rates: 18€/pers. Groups more than 5 persons: 16,50€/pers. Groups more than 10 persons : 15€/pers. Deposit: 400€ (on the day of the rental, chèque ou Crédit card) For beginners or persons needing a guide, you can contact: - Aude Escapades - Laurence Combes 06 03 50 00 85 - Axecime - Yannick Saulnier 06 08 42 27 13

95 rue de la Resse 81200 Mazamet
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Grand' Hortensia
50 km

Grand' Hortensia

Fully renovated and furnished holiday home for 14 people, just outside the village, 1 minute from the leisure centre. Situated at an altitude of 620 metres, in the Hautes Terres d'Oc, your holiday at Saint-Pierre de Trivisy in the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park. You'll love the friendly locals, the leisure centre ideal for children (and adults too!), the first-class rivers for fishing, forest walks, hiking trails... In the village, you'll find all the shops you need for your holidays, a wellness and spa centre open all year round, a leisure centre with a water park, water slides, Aventure Parc (tree climbing) and lots of entertainment in summer... Fully renovated and furnished holiday home sleeping 14. For families or groups of friends, it is located at the entrance to the village, on the road to Lacaune, just a minute's walk from the leisure complex. Enclosed garden, terrace Ground floor: - large living room opening onto a single-storey terrace at the rear, equipped with a wood-burning stove, - fully-equipped kitchen (traditional oven, microwave, combined fridge-freezer, extractor hood, dishwasher... ) with comfortable dining area, - laundry room opening onto outside terrace with washing machine, ironing board and iron - wc 1st floor: - 3 bedrooms, each with double bed (140x190), - large bathroom with bath and shower, hairdryer - wc 2nd floor: - 2 bedrooms, each with double bed, - bedroom with 2 single beds (90x190) and 2 bunk beds (90x190), - 2 toilet cubicles with shower, - wc A small games house with a multi-games table (table football, billiards, table tennis and table hockey), board games and toys for the children. External electric car charging point. Le Grand Hortensia can be rented in a smaller format (ground floor and 1st floor only), a gîte for 6 people, Le Petit Hortensia (reference G1746 on Gîtes de France).

1200 avenue des Monts de Lacau 81330 Saint-Pierre-de-Trivisy
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What to visit in Saissac

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Stroll through the historic districts of Saissac.
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Village of Dourgne
14 km

Village of Dourgne

Located at the bottom of the Montagne Noire (literally: the Black Mountain) and in the Parc Naturel du Haut Languedoc (Nature Park of the High Languedoc), the charming village of Dourgne with its abbeys and chapels is a beautiful starting point for walks and treks in a natural and spiritual environment. Located in an area inhabited by men since prehistoric times, the village of Dourgne will charm you with its small central square and its arcades but most of all, with the beauty of the surrounding landscape and its mountain paths, climbing up to the top of a plateau, through the woods and alongside little streams of crystal clear waters. In the 1890's two benedictine abbeys have been erected in this place that favours meditation: the monastery of En Calcat is home to a community of monks from which originated Dom Robert, a local tapestry artist, while Ste Scholastique is a convent for nuns who live from the sales of their crafts. The village is on one of the four Ways of St James and pilgrims and walkers will enjoy the natural and spiritual environment. Things to do in Dourgne: - Walk up to the Capelette, a chapel built on the plateau of the "Desert of St Ferréol" (only open on certain occasions such as the guided visits organised by the tourist office, for more information call 0800 74 65 81). - go fishing or enjoy a splash in the pools that have been set up on the brook during the 18th century in order to supply water to the fountains in the village. - look for the chapel of the Bayou and its miraculous little cascade hidden in the woods. - and for the bravest, try paragliding to get down the hill! (for more information, call the town hall on 05 63 50 31 20).

81110 Dourgne
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Where to eat in Saissac

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Restaurants in Saissac offer a variety of cuisines.
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Where to sleep in Saissac

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Stay in unique accommodations in Saissac.
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CHAMBRES D'HÔTES DE MONTCAUSSON
18 km

CHAMBRES D'HÔTES DE MONTCAUSSON

Beautiful estate surrounded by listed parkland, 7km from Revel-Lac-Saint-Ferréol. Features: jacuzzi, infrared sauna, heated communal swimming pool, billiards table, function room for 250 people. Come and enjoy comfort, peace and relaxation at Domaine de Montcausson! This beautiful property, with a stream running through it and surrounded by listed parkland with trees over a hundred years old, is the ideal place to stay, just 7km from the art town of Revel and Lake Saint-Ferréol. Both business and leisure guests are welcome here, and can take advantage of the communal heated swimming pool (from April to October), spa, sauna, yoga room and massage room. The Domaine also offers a 250m² function room for hire, which can also be converted into a seminar room, as well as 2 gîtes d'étape (additional 24 beds). A small breakfast room (or seminar room) for up to 20 people is also available. The 18th-century residence has 5 guest rooms with refined, personalised decor (lift between the ground and ground floors). All have a view over the park, TV and Wi-Fi internet access, reversible air conditioning, private bathroom with walk-in shower and separate WC. The ground-floor bathroom also has a bath. The entrance hall features a pool table and an Arcade console with thousands of video games. The dining room and lounge will be shared with your guests. Of course, no events (weddings, seminars) will be organised at the same time as your reservation. TELETRAVAIL: a desk and an armchair are available, as well as an electrical socket for plugging in a laptop (extension lead and power strip on request), high-speed internet connection (wifi), 4G telephone coverage (operator: Free pro).

Domaine de Montcausson 31250 REVEL
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LA PETITE MAISON DE VALÉRIE
20 km

LA PETITE MAISON DE VALÉRIE

Beautiful contemporary house Description 2025, subject to change for 2026, please refer to the description validated at the time of booking. Between Castres, Revel and Puylaurens, this beautiful contemporary house in Lempaut opens its doors to you in a leafy setting of 7,500 m². You'll enjoy a peaceful, spacious setting, while remaining close to the main sights of the southern Tarn. Just a few minutes away, Revel invites you to stroll around its famous market, while Castres beckons with its colourful houses on the River Agout, its Goya museum and its Évêché garden. And don't forget the Saint-Ferréol lake, the Montagne Noire massif and the typical villages in the surrounding area. Hiking, heritage, relaxation: the choice is yours. The house has two comfortable, independent double bedrooms, designed to offer each guest their own space. - The first, on the ground floor, has independent access, a 160x200 bed, a private shower room with WC, a television, a generous courtesy tray and a private terrace area. It also connects to the communal lounge for those who wish to share a moment with the guests. - The second bedroom, on the first floor, has a 160x200 double bed, a private shower room with dressing area, a separate private WC on the landing, a television and a well-stocked hospitality tray. On the ground floor, you'll find a large, bright living room, a convivial dining room, a modern kitchen available if required, and several relaxation areas for reading, chatting or relaxing. Here, you can choose your own pace and space: a quiet moment for two or a chat with the owners. And if you're an animal lover, Mia, the house cat, may be just the thing. Outside, the brand-new swimming pool (10x4m - 1.15 to 1.60m deep) and its landscaped terrace will soon be ready to welcome your summer afternoons. Another terrace at the front of the house, a barbecue and a large garden planted with trees complete the ideal setting for a relaxing break.

1760 Route de Blan 81700 LEMPAUT
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Caution!
We have no information on the difficulty of this circuit. You may encounter some surprises along the way. Before you go, please feel free to inquire more and take all necessary precautions. Have a good trip! 🌳🥾