Ancient ramparts and imposing turrets surround the medieval citadel of Carcassonne, a hilltop fortress set in the idyllic wineland region of South West France. This is where you will find the Hôtel de la Cité, nestled amidst magnificent gardens and the comfort of warm, weathered stone walls that speak of the romance and nobility of the royal courts of old…

The rich woods, grand fireplace and gothic style of the hotel’s award-winning La Barbacane are every bit as impressive as the innovative cuisine, which has made the restaurant a permanent feature of all Europe’s top guides. The delightful brasserie Chez Saskia and the alfresco summer restaurant, Jardin de l’Eveque, offer more informal ambiences and traditional fare.

The Hôtel de la Cité’s 40 guest rooms and 21 suites and junior suites are individually decorated, with carved wood panelling, ornate tapestries and windows inset with stained glass heraldry all combining to create a warm and intimate atmosphere. All rooms are luxuriously appointed and offer the ultimate in in-room amenities and comfort.

Relax under the cool shade of aged trees, and let your imagination wander back to a time when knights and their ladies strolled unhurriedly in the same lush green grounds, or perhaps drink in the picturesque panoramas from the hotel walls – vistas that stretch from the River Aude, over the Minervois vineyards to the mountain peaks beyond.

Carved deep into the rock beneath the citadel, the hotel’s exceptional wine cellar is renowned as one of the finest in France, and can be reserved for exclusive tastings and intimate dinners. Other private functions can be held in one of four meeting rooms, or perhaps outside in the splendid gardens.

The area around Hôtel de la Cité is steeped in history, with spectacular Cathar castles, quaint hamlets and thriving vineyards offering a glimpse into the past of this fascinating region. Barge cruises on the historic Canal du Midi as well as tennis, golf and horse riding are also available nearby; or perhaps spend a day lazing next to the hotel’s heated swimming pool surrounded by the enchanting gardens, with views of the Basilica Saint-Nazaire just beyond.