Your first glimpse of Carcassonne might have you believing you have stumbled into an episode of Game of Thrones.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the dramatic hilltop fortress town in the south of France has a magical appeal, with atmospheric streets unwinding beneath the striking medieval citadel.
This town, situated in the Languedoc wine region, is an alluring destination for today’s Big Deal getaway, with direct flights from Edinburgh and comfortable hotel accommodation.
Romance in France
The Big Deal, exclusive to 5pm customers, flies you direct to Carcassonne from Edinburgh International and includes hand luggage and three nights, room only accommodation, based on two sharing a standard double or twin room at the three star Adonis La Barbacane.
The city breaks are for three nights, flying out from Edinburgh International with Ryanair on the following dates:
6th, 13th April
11th, 18th, 25th May
22nd June
31st August
7th, 14th, 21st, 28th September
5th, 19th October
Flights are direct. Outbound flight time is 07:35, arriving into Carcassonne at 11:05. Inbound flights depart 15:40, arriving at 17:05.
Other airports and dates may be available subject to extra surcharge. Please enquire by calling directly.
Welcoming accommodation
Adonis La Barbacane is on rue de la Barbacane at the foot of the ramparts of the town’s historic centre. It is a ten minute drive from Pays Cathare Airport and a shuttle bus runs regularly to and from the airport.
All of the apartments and studios have a kitchenette with hot-plates; free Wi-Fi, an LCD TV with satellite channels; a private safe and air-conditioning.
For a small additional fee, guests can enjoy the buffet breakfast in the breakfast room or on the terrace.
Carcassonne attractions
Carcassonne’s spectacular citadel, La Cité, is among France’s most distinctive tourist attractions, second only to the Eiffel Tower in annual visitor numbers.
Most of the fortress dates from the 13th and 14th centuries, and a walk around the battlements offers panoramic views towards the Pyrenees.
The imposing basilica of St-Nazaire is famous for its bizarre gargoyles. Beneath the fortress and church, the old medieval town, La Ville Basse, is a delight to explore on foot, with stylish boutiques, unpretentious restaurants serving superb Languedoc cuisine, and plenty of bars and cafes where you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine.
Carcassonne is also a port on the Canal du Midi, and a canal boat trip is a relaxing way to enjoy the peaceful countryside of the region.
Wine aficionados will enjoy visiting the local chateaux or domaines in the Minervois region to the north of the town, or the Corbières to the south.
Happy guests
The three star Adonis La Barbacane enjoys enthusiastic recommendations on TripAdvisor, including these recent reviews, edited for length:
‘Great. The location of the hotel is nice, you can get to the centre with a twenty minute walk. The studios were very big and in great condition. The staff was very friendly. The backyard was very beautiful as well, with a great view to enjoy a glass of wine there.’
‘A great stay in Carcassone. I had a very good experience at this hotel. Room was spacious and clean and location was great, really close to the medieval Cité… Would recommend this hotel for a stay in Carcassonne.’
‘Amazing location. Great service. This property wasn’t anything fancy, but it was clean, spacious and comfortable. We had everything we needed for a one night stay. The location next to the walled city was fantastic… The staff were very friendly and helpful. Spoke excellent English, which was a real help to us…’
Ideal escape
This Big Deal offer to Carcassonne is a great opportunity to discover the history and beauty of the Languedoc region.
Perfect for a romantic getaway, it offers culture, a balmy climate and great cuisine and wines.
With direct flights from Edinburgh and comfortable accommodation, embrace the relaxed ambiance of la belle France in Carcassonne.