Castle classified historical monument…. In the heart of the Kathar Country

Hotel restaurant de charme

A little bit of history…..

At the initiative of Jean de Joyeuse,

chamberlain and constable of , first governor of and Lieutenant General in

Languedoc, has undertaken the construction of the Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse between 1540 and

1550. His son, Guillaume III, ensured further works of this magnificent

monument which has been occupied in 1577 during the religious wars between Protestants and Catholics.

Activities at the Castle – Relaxation & tranquility in the Castle...

To the prestige of its interior, the Castle adds abundant nature and generous sun. Relax around a tennis game, enjoy the pool or a swim in the river . Just give yourself a moment of tranquility and meditation on our comfortable seats by the river banks...

Activities offered at the Hotel :

- Heated outdoor swimmingpool - Tenniscourt - Bowling

A Hotel-Restaurant full of charm and character…..

The refined standing of the rooms and junior suites is perfectly associated with the medieval decoration of this noble place; all the bathrooms offer modern comfort.

On cold days you will enjoy the inside dining room of the Restaurant decorated with medieval tapestries and shields; the courtyard is a magical place for your summer dinners.

The chef offers sophisticated menus; alliance of food and wine, a symbol of the authentic charm of the region.

Leisure and discoveries around the Castle….

There are many activities close by …

The “Haute Vallée de l’Aude” is full of different sports facilities and aquatic outputs .... - Horse-riding, hiking and mountain bike pads, quad - Crosscountry rides - Archery - Canyoning, Rafting, Hydrospeed, canoë, kayak… - Tree climbing

But also a wide range of cultural heritage to explore…. - The Kathar Castles (, Puylaurens, Peyrepertuse, Quéribus...) - The old City of - The mystery around the treasure of the Abbot Sauniere - The dungeon of Arques - The Abbey of Saint Hilaire, of La Grasse and of Fontfroide - The dinosaurs Museum (largest Europeen field) - The hat factory of Espéraza

Don’t miss! The local products served at our property and available from local producers… - Wine tasting around local red and white wine as well as the traditional sparkling Blanquette - The famous Cassoulet of - The trout breeding at the Pays de Gesse

Contact & Access

 The new TGV Montpellier – Barcelone in only 2h50

 Access by plane International Airport Blagnac (1h15) Airport Carcassonne Salvaza (35 minutes) Airport Béziers Cap d’Agde (1h30)

 Access by the road From Paris : Highway Paris-Limoges-Toulouse – Take the A61up to Carcassonne – exit 23 – Take D118 to , then . From Toulouse : Take the A61up to Carcassonne – exit 23 - , Take D118 to Limoux, then Couiza. From : D112 Rivesaltes – Saint Paul de Fenouillet then and Couiza From Montpellier/Barcelone : A9 – at Narbonne Take the A61up to Carcassonne – exit 23 - , Take D118 to Limoux, then Couiza.

The castle is located at the entrance of Couiza, 1st on the right.