Carcassonne City & Landscapes

0.00km – Facing the city gates go STRAIGHT ON over the bridge and into the old city.

0.05km – Before entering the impressive arch ahead TURN LEFT and walk along the cobbled way between the two sets of fortifications. Continue to follow this way as it swings to the right. Take time to enjoy the many fine views over the surrounding countryside.

0.80km – Continue STRAIGHT ON as the route takes you round to the north side. You should negotiate some steps through a gap in the wall to the right which will keep you on the main path ahead.

1.40km – You will now find yourself back at the city gate, where you can turn right into the city itself. To continue to follow our route, TURN LEFT and head back out across the bridge. Once out of the walled city, walk up to the road in front of you.

1.50km – BEAR RIGHT up the road beside the cemetery. Please use the footpath behind the poles on the left hand side.

1.80km – At the far end of the cemetery, BEAR LEFT along Chemin de Ste Croix. You are now on the official GR36 walking route and will see the red and white indicator of street signs and telegraphs poles (see the photograph section).

2.60km – Continue through the tunnel under the main road and then BEAR LEFT up the hill, following the GR36 signs. At the top of the slope follow the road round to the right.

3.70km – At the gates to a large house, TURN RIGHT and walk up the stony path ahead as it swings left. The sign on the swing gate (see photographs) translates as “Except Services” and the path is perfectly safe for walking.

4.40km – At the junction, TURN LEFT and follow the wide path ahead. Note, this is an easy turn to miss. You are leaving the GR36 route now and should see ad red and white X on the wooden post – this is the correct route (see photograph). Follow this path straight ahead until you reach a small car park area.

5.30km – At the car park, continue STRAIGHT ON and you will find yourself on a narrower path that leads to the viewpoint.

5.70km – At the viewpoint, take time to enjoy the scenery. Return the same way back to the car park area when you are ready.

6.30km – Once back at the car park area continue ahead until you see two rocks and a large sign that says Espaces de Vertes – here TURN RIGHT and follow the path down to the tarmac road.

6.60km – Once toy reach the tarmac road with the ate ahead of you, TURN RIGHT and follow the road ahead. Please be aware of any oncoming traffic.

7.20km – BEAR RIGHT at the house and continue on the tarmac road.

7.60km – when you see the main road, BEAR LEFT up the slope and continue along the minor road that runs parallel to the main road

8.10km – As the road swings left TURN RIGHT heading down to the tunnel under that main road that you used before. After the tunnel, follow the road back to Carcassonne – you will get some fine views of the city walls as you return.

8.80km – At the junction with the cemetery ahead, BEAR RIGHT and head back towards the city gates. Please use the pavement on the right-hand side.

9.00km – When it is safe to do so, cross the road and enter the small square in front of the city gates. Here you have completed today’s walk, and can reward yourself with a light refreshment on one of the many cars and cafés that can be found on the streets within the city walls