Château de Peyrepertuse
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Château de Peyrepertuse - by Management





Description
The Château de Peyrepertuse was originally built during the 10th century and further fortified until the 13th century; the ruins that can be visited today date from this period. The castle is set at the top of a rocky outcrop, making it virtually impregnable, like the other Cathar fortresses in the French Pyrénées. At the time of the Albigensian crusade, it belonged to Guillaume de Peyrepertuse but he finally submitted after the failure of the siege of Carcassonne, and the castle was sold to Saint Louis (King Louis XI) in 1239. Some of the ramparts, towers and parts of the church are still standing, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views over the Massif des Corbières.
Access & Transport
The castle can be reached after a 15-20 mins uphill walk on a trail leaving from the village of Duilhac, in the south of the Aude department. It is a 50 mins drive from Perpignan, 75 mins from Narbonne and 90 mins from Carcassonne.
Instructions & Recommendations
Guided visits are available for groups and upon reservation. The ruined Château de Quéribus is only a 20 mins drive away and whilst there is a clear overlap in terms of content, unless you are a regional resident who will have other opportunities in the future, it may make sense to combine both visits.
Environmental & Social
Helps preserve the region's historical heritage + tourism brings some economic activity to this rural area. No carbon footprint other than the drive to get there
Conclusion
Difficult to imagine the structure as it would have been in the 13th century but there is just enough left standing to make it worth the climb with views as the icing on the cake. We suggest at least one person in each party rents an audio guide to make the most of the visit.
Key positive
Nice views from the top
Interesting historical background
Key negative
Little information provided outside of the audioguide
Suitability
Not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility and younger children may find the climb a little challenging
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
March 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h 15m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Start of Season 1:Apr, 01
MONDAY09:00 - 19:00
TUESDAY09:00 - 19:00
WEDNESDAY09:00 - 19:00
THURSDAY09:00 - 19:00
FRIDAY09:00 - 19:00
SATURDAY09:00 - 19:00
SUNDAY09:00 - 19:00
Start of Season 2:Oct, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 17:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 17:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 17:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 17:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 17:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 17:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 17:00