The Razès area in the Aude, France, is little known for its beautiful landscapes and scenic hiking trails. Here is an outline of just a few of the best hiking and walking trails in the Razès and around this stunning region. For more details and/or a chat about guided walks on these and more, Contact Us.
Le Circuit des Vignerons:
- Description: A loop trail starting from the village of Belvèze-du-Razès, taking you through vineyards and orchards. Largely agricultural landscapes with varied local flora and fauna, and picturesque village views.
- Distance: Approximately 19 km
- Duration: Around 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Le Chemin de la Melso:
- Description: This trail starts in the village of Cailhau and offers a shaded route through forests and across fields and vineyards. Rich biodiversity is evident and the walk is over rolling hills with views of the Black Mountain and the Pyrenees.
- Distance: 11 km
- Duration: 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Le Sentier de Saint-Dominique:
- Description: This trail starts from the historic village of Fanjeaux, known for its association with Saint Dominic and the Dominican Order. The hike takes you through rolling hills and open fields. It offers panoramic views of the Lauragais plain, the Pyrenees, and significant historical sites like the house of Saint Dominic and the church of Fanjeaux.
- Distance: Approximately 20 km
- Duration: Around 4-5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Le Sentier des Crêtes d’Hounoux:
- Description: This trail begins in Hounoux and explores the hills and forests of the Malepère region. It offers a mix of open countryside and woodland paths, offering scenic views of the Malepère Massif, local flora and fauna, and the tranquil rural environment.
- Distance: Approximately 12 km
- Duration: Around 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Le Sentier du Pic de Brau:
- Description: This trail ascends the Pic de Brau just south of Limoux, providing a moderately challenging hike with rewarding summit views of the Razès and Limousin plains, the Corbières hills, and the Pyrenees.
- Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Duration: Around 3-4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Le Sentier des Capitelles:
- Description: A local loop trail starting from the village of Couiza, this hike takes you through peaceful vineyards, forest paths and past traditional stone huts known as 'capitelles'. Panoramic views of the surrounding countryside including Rennes-le-Château and the Pyrenees.
- Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Duration: Around 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Le Sentier de La Pène:
- Description: This loop trail starts from La Pène and takes you through a mix of vineyards, woodlands, and open fields. The trail offers a pleasant walk with gentle ascents and descents. with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, vineyards, and occasional sightings of local wildlife. The trail also provides lovely views of the Pyrenees on clear days.
- Distance: Approximately 8 km
- Duration: Around 2-3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Le Sentier de Seignalens et Lignairolles:
- Description: This loop trail starts from Lignairolles and takes you along the ridge behind the village. The path offers a mix of open fields and wooded areas. Also offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, including the Pyrenees and the Black Mountain (Montagne Noire).
- Distance: Approximately 10 km
- Duration: Around 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
Les Gorges de Galamus:
- Description: Though a bit farther afield, this trail is worth the drive for a more adventurous hike as it offers stunning gorge scenery, a hermitage built into the cliffs, and the chance to swim in natural pools.
- Distance: Approximately 10 km
- Duration: Around 3 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
La Voie Verte:
- Description: Also known as the "Green Way," this is a multi-use trail suitable for walking, cycling, and horse riding. It's a 65 kilometre path that follows an old railway line from the Canal du Midi to the town of Lavelanet at the base of Montségur. Another direction splits at the village of Moulin Neuf and heads off into the medieval town of Mirepoix, offering a flat and easy route through the scenic countryside.
- Distance: Approximately 65 km
- Difficulty: Easy
Le Sentier Cathare (Cathar Trail):
- Description: This long-distance trail spans approximately 250 km and takes you through historical Cathar country. You can choose to hike a segment of the trail that passes through the Razès area. Highlights include: Medieval castles, picturesque villages, and stunning views of the Pyrenees.
- Distance: 250 km
- Difficulty: Moderate - Hard
Come on a Walking Retreat in the Razès
These trails vary in length and difficulty, providing options for both casual walkers and experienced hikers. Be sure to check local trail conditions and weather forecasts before setting out, and consider carrying a map and sufficient supplies for your hike.
Alternatively, take the stress out the hike and try one of our bespoke guided walking holidays where you decide with your professional guide where you want to go, what distance you want to do and how easy or hard you want your hike to be. Your hiking holiday couldn't be easier.
Comments