What better way to ring in the New Year than by stepping back in time? That’s exactly what we did on our two-night adventure to Carcassonne, the stunning medieval city in the south of France, full of charm, history, and incredible food. Our trip was perfectly timed for a New Year’s Eve experience we’ll never forget. Here’s a glimpse into our unforgettable getaway!
A Taste of Carcassonne on New Year’s Eve
From the moment we arrived, we were swept up in the magic of this ancient city. The highlight of our evening was dinner at Restaurant La Marquière, a cozy, intimate spot nestled in a historic building within the Cité, Carcassonne’s fortified old town. It’s one of the top-rated restaurants in the area for a reason: the ambiance, service, and most importantly, the food were exceptional.
For New Year’s Eve, we were treated to a decadent tasting menu that paired perfectly with the evening’s celebratory atmosphere. The menu was a feast for the senses, starting with foie gras, followed by melt-in-your-mouth duck, and a selection of desserts that seemed to go on forever. Oh, and the Champagne of course! Each course was paired with carefully chosen wines that complemented the rich flavors of the meal. It was the perfect introduction to the culinary delights of this region. Amazing desserts! We finished just in time step outside and watch the fireworks from the walls – an altogether amazing experience!
Exploring Carcassonne’s Historic Sights
While our evening was a gastronomic journey, we had two days that were spent soaking in the history and beauty of Carcassonne. The city is divided into two distinct parts: the fortified Cité on the right bank of the Aude River, and the lower town on the left. The two areas are connected by the 14th-century Pont-Vieux, an impressive stone bridge with 12 arches that offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
We spent the most of our time exploring the Cité, wandering its narrow cobbled streets, and marveling at the medieval architecture. The Château Comtal (Count’s Castle) was a must-see, offering fascinating insights into Carcassonne’s military history and its strategic importance over the centuries. We also stopped by the beautiful Saint-Nazaire Basilica, where the intricate stained glass windows and soaring gothic architecture left us in awe.
The city’s defensive Ramparts were another highlight, and we enjoyed walking along them, soaking in the panoramic views of the lower town, the Aude River, and beyond. Health and safety is kind of halfway house, so you can quite literally walk on pathways right on the walls. The walls themselves are a masterpiece of medieval engineering, and it’s easy to see why Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Of course, no visit to Carcassonne would be complete without sampling the region’s iconic dish: cassoulet.
We found a charming bistro in the lower town, where we devoured a hearty portion of this rich, comforting dish, made with slow-cooked beans, sausages, and duck. It was the perfect winter warmer and a true taste of the region’s culinary tradition.
A Slightly Chaotic Start to the New Year
Our last day in Carcassonne was scheduled to be a short one as we had a morning flight, and started off with a bit of a hiccup — a lesson learned the hard way! Despite double-checking with the bus company and the tourist office about transportation options for New Year’s Day, we discovered that the buses weren’t running (or atleast weren’t where or when they said they were!). So, with our flight fast approaching, we ended up taking a brisk walk (slash half-run) to the train station, hoping to catch a taxi to the airport. Thankfully, we made it just in time, and managed to jump in with another couple who had the same experience! The airport is only served by a few flights a week so if we’d have missed it we’d have been trapped for a few days, though that’s no bad thing!
It was an unexpected twist, but it didn’t take away from the overall magic of our Carcassonne experience. The charm of the city, the incredible food, and the warm French hospitality made for a truly memorable New Year’s getaway.
Final Thoughts
Carcassonne is a perfect destination for a quick escape, especially during the festive season. The city is a wonderful blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and enriching holiday experience. Whether you’re wandering the ancient streets, indulging in the local cuisine, or ringing in the New Year with a feast, Carcassonne never fails to impress. We’re already planning our next trip back!
