Follow the sun | Official website of the Office de Tourisme des Pyrénées Cathares

Our route to the sun

L'heure bleue

Montségur

When was the last time you took the time to watch the sunrise?

The ideal place to reconnect with the rhythm of nature and contemplate the rising sun is the summit of the Montségur pog. In the early hours of the morning, begin the twenty-minute climb up the ancestral path to the castle. Once you’ve reached the belvedere, take your time and sit down on one of the houses of the Cathar village (yes, here we sit on the remains of the houses). Clinging to the wall, they were there… even if you have to use a little imagination. The magnificent panorama unfolding before your eyes lights up as the minutes pass until the first ray of sunshine appears! The explosion of light floods your face and rewards you for your efforts! If you squint, who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the Mediterranean Sea, far over there towards Montpellier. If luck and the weather smile on you, you’ll see a sea of clouds form and then disappear at your feet.

This suspended moment between earth and sky is adorned with the colors of the sun. The sun rises over the Cathar Pyrenees in all its glory. It’s a rare pleasure, reserved for the early risers!

Secret guide

Around June 21, at the summer solstice, a unique solar phenomenon occurs. The rays of the dawning sun enter through the keep’s archways to illuminate, in an orange light, the two opposite archways. Aarrow of light crosses the space! This magical, mysterious moment only lasts a few minutes, but it will remain etched in your memory forever.

The sun at its zenith

Mirepoix

Now set course for Mirepoix. The charmingmedieval town offers you a festival of vivid colors. The shimmering facades (pink, blue, yellow, ochre) of the half-timbered houses create an enchanting framework around the central square. However, you’ll find welcome shade and coolness under the couverts (medieval galleries) that surround the square.

It’s warm, the light is dazzling and you can take time out for a meal, feasting on local produce while you wait for the right moment. You’ve got time: the solar noon is almost 2pm in summer and 1pm in winter. So at solar noon, when the sun is at its zenith, head for the cathedral: enthroned on the square behind the central hall, you won’t want to miss it.

Inside, the edifice lights up, revealing all its splendor thanks to the light streaming through its magnificent stained-glass windows. The sun’s rays then tint the gray pavement floor with a thousand vivid colors, like scattered precious stones. Every detail of the architecture is revealed. The place is filled with magic and spirituality, inviting meditation.

Secret guide

Every Monday morning, the grand marché takes place in the central square. Ideal for stocking up on local produce and soaking up the cheerful atmosphere where the southern accent resonates (but not only!). A little café on the terrace is a must… It’s lively and cheerful, and the stalls with their colorful tarpaulins add an extra touch of color. It’s a great place to live! Don’t forget to stock up for your picnic if you need to…

Golden twilight

Lake Montbel

To finish off this tour of the sun, what could be better than a sunset by the water? Then we’ll take you to lac de Montbel! There by the water, everything calms down: the children are tired, the birds are looking for their nests… All that’s left to do is wait for the golden hour: everything is then nimbed in golden light.

Enjoy this grandiose spectacle, tucked away in the cool of the water’s edge, in connection with nature. A moment of pure bliss! It’s time for romance…

Secret guide

After taking the time to face the sunset, don’t go to bed! Continue to follow the light according to your mood!

The flare of the lanterns: if you feel like it, you can take advantage of the guinguettes and restaurants and their concerts or shows by the lake.
The glow of the stars: by the lake, in the moonlight, hunt for the shooting stars…. Around mid-July to the end of August, the Perseids promise you a shower of comets!