You’d be forgiven for thinking that Carcassonne, Languedoc’s most famous sight, is a unique structure in the region – that nowhere else could possibly look as ancient and wonderful. Well, you’d be wrong. Minerve is a village plucked straight out of history, and, set amongst the glorious Languedoc countryside, is something that genuinely has to be seen to be believed. Oh, and the wines aren’t half bad either. 

Highlights

• Stay in Carcassonne (just because it’s not unique doesn’t mean it’s not incredible, after all) in the shadow of the magnificent citadel which makes up the city’s most iconic facet.
• Tour the Minervois region and stroll through some of Languedoc’s oldest vineyards – with a pairing lunch of three courses and a visit to the village of Minerve.
• Taste some of Languedoc’s finest wines, made primarily from Syrah, Grenache and Carignan (for the reds) and Viognier (for the whites); around twelve different wines in total.

Tour Gallery

Day 1

First, check in to your 3* accommodation (with a bottle waiting for you on arrival, of course) right beside the iconic Cité Médiévale de Carcassonne, perfectly located next to all of the city’s best shops, bars and restaurants. Take the evening to wander those little cobbled streets and stumble across all of the even littler secrets that the city has to offer.

Day 2

Today, you’ll start the day with a visit to an ancient winery in the Minervois region to learn about wine production as it was centuries ago – there’s time for a tasting, of course, of wines made there from the most well-known grape varieties used in Languedoc. Then, you’ll stroll through an equally-ancient vineyard to learn about vine care before a three-course tasting lunch with accompanying wines. Then, head on to Minerve itself for some time to explore and learn about the village’s history. During the later afternoon, you’ll visit a winery in the La Livinière appellation for another tour and tasting, before heading back to Carcassonne in the evening.

Day 3

The morning is yours to explore some more of Carcassonne (or perhaps wander the surrounding countryside) before catching your flight back home.

Worth Considering

• Upgrades are available and this itinerary serves simply as a guideline – we’ll be happy to alter any details around your needs or wishes and include travel and accommodation.
• The day tour is semi private and may include other wine enthusiasts – still allowing for an intimate experience with the wine makers themselves. Private tours can also be arranged.
• This itinerary is based on a 3* accommodation but please note that we have a wide range of hotel options available – just let us know what you’re looking for.