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Explore the gems of Conques-sur-orbiel

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Welcome to Conques-sur-orbiel, a charming town nestled in the heart of the Aude region in Languedoc-Roussillon. Here, every street corner tells a story, and every path leads you on a picturesque journey. Begin your exploration with a visit to the Saint-Michel Church, a stunning architectural masterpiece steeped in centuries of history. Then, wander through the narrow streets and admire the ancient...See more

Walking around Conques-sur-orbiel

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Enjoy pleasant walks in Conques-sur-orbiel.
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The "Capitelles” - Le Cagarot
3.5 km

The "Capitelles” - Le Cagarot

In Conques-sur-Orbiel, about thirty volunteers meet for half a day each week to restore these "capitelles" - dry-stone cabins -, which once served as shelters for winegrowers in winter times.  Forty-five “capitelles” mark four trails in a magnificent setting.  Trail Markings: Pink  The starting point of the Cagarot Trail is not located at the trailhead sign, as with the other three trails. To reach it, you must first follow the “Les Murailles d’Aribaud” trail (blue markings) for about 600 meters in the direction of the route. From the “L’Embarado” picnic area in the woods, the “Le Cagarot” loop (pink trail markers) begins.  Set off again in front of the "capitelle", then turn left shortly afterward. Before reaching a trail junction, turn right to cross a small wall. Pass in front of the "dansaïro" (a nickname given to the person who works the plot) and then near a rabbit warren or shelter: the Garenne de Gauby.  When you reach a trail, turn right, and after 50 meters, turn left onto a long straight stretch. Enjoy the shade provided by the pine and holm oak trees along the route.  At the trail junction, turn right, where you’ll follow a major "draille" (transhumance trail) with reconstructed stone walls.  After about 200 meters, turn left onto a gravel path; as you wind through the vegetation, you’ll discover several "capitelles". At the end, turn left, and as you face the view, take a moment to appreciate the magnificent vista of the limestone cirque and listen for the peaceful trickling of the “Rieu Sec.” Continue to the left and follow the trail, turning left again.  At the trail junction, turn right, and 100 meters further on, turn left to return to the picnic area in the woods. Continue to the right, following the “blue” trail markers, to return with a view of the Pyrenees mountain range: take a moment to admire this view.  Tips: The restoration of the "capitelles" is the result of the work of volunteers from the Foyer Laïque de Conques sur Orbiel. Please respect what has been restored by not moving the stones on these structures, which remain fragile. 

1 h
2.7 km
Very easy
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Aribaud’s Walls - Les capitelles
3.6 km

Aribaud’s Walls - Les capitelles

In Conques-sur-Orbiel about thirty volunteers meet for half a day a week to restore these capitelles (dry stone hutS) which served as shelters for the winegrowers during the bad weather. Signs: Blue markings Departure to the right of the big sign going up the track for about 200m. Take on the right a path (small trail) following the blue arrows. Gradually go into the "Occitan garriga" scrubland to discover different “capitelles”. Arrival on a track, on the right for 50m then on the left where four visual supports will inform you about the Essences of the area, the Garrigue, the Alaric mountain and the Pyrenees. Resume the progression behind you by following the markings, you will pass in front of the capitelle des Jumelles. Then two capitelles further on, you will leave on your right the departure of the Cagarot (path N°4, 2km, with beautiful panoramas) and by taking on the left you will arrive at "l'embarrade", this place was restored and fitted out in picnic area by a local association of protection of the capitelles. The path continues on the right up to a track, turn left, slightly uphill for about 250m. On your right, you can see another construction, "l'assietadou" dry stone shelter for sitting. Then the signposts will take you to the left, the progression will take place in a rather dense garrigue, very pleasant and you will end up on a new track. Turn right for 50m and then turn left (do not go over the power line). You will fall back on the track of the departure, take on the left in light descent for the return. You are facing south towards the Pyrenees: admire the panorama... Return to the parking lot.

1 h
2.2 km
Very easy
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The “Capitelles” - The Cocalière Plain
3.6 km

The “Capitelles” - The Cocalière Plain

In this scrubland area, Andorran farmers and herds have given way to fragrant plant species.  Here, one can find the priceless remnants of that past.  A landscape that changes from one valley to the next, dotted with little stone gems: capitelles, assietadous… names bringing Mediterranean sun to your ears!  Trail Markings: Orange  Start to the left of the large sign. Follow the trail markers on the wooden posts; the path descends slightly.  The first "capitelle" you come to is quite an impressive structure. Be curious and feel free to wander around it.  At the trail junction, take the path straight ahead, slightly offset to the left. After 200 meters, turn left toward a "capitelle" and continue deeper into the fragrant garrigue. Discover the “Siamoises,” a pair of adjoining "capitelles" unique to the region.  Shortly after, cross the trail again and continue straight ahead for 50 meters, then turn right onto a long straight stretch.  Leave the trail to the left; further on, at a right-hand curve, on the outside of the curve, a surprising, perfectly round "capitelle" comes into view. When you emerge onto a trail, head right until you reach a star-shaped intersection.  At the intersection, turn right again, and then right once more at the next intersection. After about 150 meters, leave the path on the left and take a narrow trail.  Further on, when you rejoin the trail, turn right, then shortly after, at the trail junction, turn left.  You’re already on your way back! 

3 h
4 km
Very easy
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The “Capitelles” - The Scrubland Steam
3.6 km

The “Capitelles” - The Scrubland Steam

In Conques-sur-Orbiel, about thirty volunteers meet for half a day each week to restore these "capitelles" - dry-stone cabins -, which once served as shelters for winegrowers during winter times.  Forty-five "capitelles" mark four trails in a magnificent setting.  Green Markings  From the starting sign, turn right twenty meters ahead and keep turning right; the green sign for the “Le ruisseau de la Garrigue” trail invites you to venture into the very dense vegetation.  Soon, the first "capitelle", named “La Mignarda,” comes into view.  It features a distinctive four-sided dome. From there, green arrows mounted on posts will guide you along the entire loop.  At the following "capitelles", notice the protruding stones built into the outer wall—known locally as “assietadous”—which serve as seats.  Further along, one “capitelle” is distinguished by its dome, covered with earth to protect it from erosion.  Every year in the spring, when the irises bloom, it becomes a sight to behold, taking on shades of blue and yellow. When you reach a trail, head straight ahead. Continue walking through very sparse scrubland toward a small valley.  When you reach a trail, turn left onto it and climb up to the trail junction, then pay close attention to the trail markers.  Turn right and continue along a trail through the sparse garrigue, facing the Pyrenees.  Back on a trail, turn left toward the last "capitelle" on the loop, “La Semparella.”  It features a mule shelter whose roof was covered with tiles until the 1940s, when it was last used.  Ideal family hike !

1 h
1.8 km
Very easy
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On the plateau de la Bade
3.9 km

On the plateau de la Bade

The omnipresent scrubland reminds of the pastoral activity or abandoned vineyards. One can easily imagine a few goats, passing by on calades (slopes), greeting grape-pickers while feasting on a few branches. Signs: Yellow markings Leaving from the cemetery in rue des Pyrénées. Go up towards the plateau by a rather steep path and pass in front of the water tower. Turn right onto the “chemin des hauts du Thou” and continue until you reach a grassy path. Follow it until you reach a crossroads: turn left and then immediately right. As you walk along the Bade Plateau, the dry-stone walls that once marked out the cultivated plots of land are still visible. On a clear day, the panorama of Carcassonne and its city is revealed with the Corbières and the Pyrenees in the background. After going down the slope, take the track to the right in order to join the asphalt road linking Pennautier to Villegailhenc. Once there, notice in front of you a grey cylindrical marker indicating the passage of the “Méridienne Verte”: a project aiming to materialize the line of the meridian of Paris in France by trees. Turn right for about 250m and then right again on a slightly uphill path. Follow the yellow marks up on the plateau, you will pass in front of a small well protected by a few stakes. A little further on, you will see the panorama of the Montagne Noire and its highest point marked by the Pic de Nore (red and white antenna). The village of Villegailhenc is at your feet. At the crossroads, take the left path which is paved with large pebbles and goes down to the outskirts of the village via “rue du Thou”. Turn right on rue de la Bade and turn right one last time on rue des Pyrénées to get back to the starting point of the loop.

2 h
4.9 km
Easy
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The Truffle Trail
7.1 km

The Truffle Trail

Discover the “Golden Triangle” of truffles: Villeneuve-Minervois, Trassanel, and Cabrespine! Perfect for trail running. Note: 3 possible starting points VILLENEUVE-MINERVOIS in front of the village hall  TRASSANEL parking lot at the village entrance  CABRESPINE church square.  Trail Markings: Yellow – “Pinpin's head" (known as “the king of truffles”)  Start at the parking lot of the Vitalis Cros complex (village hall). Turn right onto Rue du Jeu de Mail, then left onto Promenade des Fossés. Take the first right onto Rue de l’Hérisson and continue on Rue du Pareur.  Cross the bridge over the Clamoux River, then go straight on Rue du Pont Vieux; after 50 meters, turn right onto a gravel path.  Cross the D712, following the trail markers, which are always topped with Pinpin’s face.  The route climbs gently through the scrubland and vineyards. Some sections through the woods, which are very pleasant in the summer, will add variety to the route. Further up, continue along the trail, then take a small paved road toward the village of TRASSANEL.  At the village entrance, turn right onto Rue du 8 Août 1944, and about 150 meters after the bend, turn right onto the path leading to the Maquisards memorial.  Head straight ahead down a winding descent with about 90m of elevation loss and continue to the Grotte du Maquis. Turn right and climb gently for 107m of elevation gain to the ridge of the Roc d’Agnel.  Once at the top, take in the view; you’re halfway there. Head left for about 250m, and at the T-shaped junction, turn right to descend toward CABRESPINE (passing just above the Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine).  Down in the village, be careful when crossing the D112 toward Rue de la Poste, which is directly across the street. Go straight for 80 meters, then turn right onto the bridge and right again to continue on Chemin de Saint Martin.  Pass by the cemetery, then 100 meters further on, turn left and then right. The path climbs gently for 1.5 km, offering beautiful views of the Roc de l’Aigle and the Roc d’Agnel.  When you reach a large star-shaped intersection, take the second path on your right. You’ll begin your return journey with a pleasant descent toward the village of VILLENEUVE-MINERVOIS, enjoying a beautiful view of the Carcassonne plain. 

8 h
17 km
Easy
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The Bosc Grand path
7.2 km

The Bosc Grand path

Loop to the north of the village, you will pass close to the cave, take the opportunity to visit it (pay for entry)! WARNING: in summer, protect yourself from the sun and keep hydrated because of the long distance, the sunshine and the elevation gain. Start in the centre of the village, Place de la Fontaine. Head north on Rue du Four, then continue along a slightly sloping path towards the "Grave" stream. Further on, turn left at the junction with the "Ménentière" stream and go up towards Fournes-Cabardès. In the village, turn right on rue de la bergerie (D401) leaving the wash house on your left. Walk for about 450m and then take a path on the right. Go down towards the Courrebies valley and go up to Sériès. Take the D401 and cross the hamlet then the ford. At the level of the "Courtal Long" sheepfold, in the left-hand bend, take the path on the right towards the pass (alt 644m) on the crest of Mount Simel. Take a break to admire the landscape. Resume the progression: go down the stony path for 1km then at the level of a grove of trees, turn right through the scrubland. At the bottom of the track, turn right and 150m further on, turn right again and go up. Arriving at a flat area, at a small crossroads: look out for the signs. Turn left and follow a small path in the middle of fairly short vegetation. Go down to the level of the Limousis cave, cross the shady car park and then take the road opposite which leads back to Limousis.  

4 h
9.8 km
Easy
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What to do in Conques-sur-orbiel

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Via Ferrata in Mazamet
23 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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Le Mouscaillou
29 km

Le Mouscaillou

Towering majestically over you, the Montagne Noire Our large Guest House, authentic, spacious, very comfortable, surrounded of 5ha of prairies and oak woods invite to well-being. Need for tranquillity, contemplation: a panorama of exception, a large swimming pool with salt, beautiful beach wood vegetation, with on-site botanical trail. Here in the Parc Naturel Regional du Haut-Languedoc is planned to make you discover a rich and preserved nature. The Panda label is attested. For more physical activity: discovery of the mountain, the waterfall of the Mouscaillou, walk or bike the trails. Possibility to put in place of hiking tours with picnic. Maps and guidebooks available. Opportunity also to try our all-terrain scooters: initiation on-site warranties sensations. More than cultural: rich local heritage: Albi, Castres, Cordes, Carcassonne, Sorèze, Lautrec. After l aperitif offered on the moment of sharing and conviviality terrace, you can enjoy in our The large ground floor room opened by its three windowpanes on the shaded terrace and its remarkable panorama, fully reserved you. Wood, stone, green plants create a soft and warm atmosphere. You will take your meals and enjoy relaxing lounge chairs, his television, his library enriched with many works nature and tourism and its corner bar with fridge. Also on the ground floor, you have two toilets and a washing machine. L floor the rooms, with their wooden floors, colors in the milk of lime, custom decorations, beautiful openings of the mountains or the plain of Castres, offer you comfort and privacy. Three rooms with private wc and shower room; a fourth is added if necessary to one of them to form the family that will accommodate up to five people. You certainly understand that we need to take the time to have fun, which is why we you propo

112 chemin du Mouscaillou La B 81290 Escoussens
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The Great Paths
29 km

The Great Paths

Towering majestically above you: the Montagne Noire. Here in the Haut-Languedoc Regional Nature Park, everything is designed to help you discover a rich and unspoiled natural environment. The Panda label attests to this. This authentic, spacious, and very comfortable home, surrounded by five hectares of meadows and oak forests, invites you to relax and unwind. Looking for peace and quiet, or a chance to reflect? Enjoy an exceptional panoramic view, a large saltwater pool (shared), a beautiful wooden deck surrounded by greenery, and an on-site botanical trail. For more physical activities: explore the mountains and the Mouscaillou waterfall on foot or by bike along marked trails. Maps and guidebooks are available. Be sure to try our all-terrain scooters as well—get an on-site introduction; thrills guaranteed. For cultural experiences: rich local heritage, Albi, Castres, Mazamet, Cordes, Sorèze, the springs, lakes, and waterways of the Canal du Midi, and Carcassonne. ** THE COTTAGE ** You enter on the ground floor into a large open room with floor-to-ceiling windows opening onto the terrace, which offers a pleasant mix of sun and shade, the lawn, and its remarkable panoramic view. Wood, stone, and houseplants create a soft and warm atmosphere. You can relax in the living room’s armchairs, watch TV, browse the library—which is well-stocked with books on nature and tourism—or enjoy the bar area with a fridge; there’s also a separate living room. You’ll also find another living room and a very large, professionally equipped kitchen: a large refrigerator with a separate freezer compartment, a professional-grade gas stove, a gas oven and an electric oven, a microwave, a sink, and a dishwasher. Upstairs, the four bedrooms—with their hardwood floors, lime-washed walls, personalized decor, and beautiful views of the mountains or the Castres plain—offer comfort and privacy thanks to enhanced insulation. There are three bathrooms and three separate toilets. Your stay is all-inclusive: sheets, towels, and linens are provided; beds are made upon your arrival; and end-of-stay cleaning is included.

112 chemin du Mouscaillou La B 81290 Escoussens
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What to visit in Conques-sur-orbiel

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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! 🌳🥾