Places to visit from the Gite - Hautpoul

In the year 413, Ataulphe I, king of the Visigoths, founded Hautpoul. The castle followed a similar destiny to many in the region, it was destroyed by the Cathar hunter 'Simon de Montfort' during the crusades against the Cathars. The people who survived settled in the plains near the gorge of the Arnette.

Many legends tell about the treasure of the Visigoths. The Romans, who sacked Jerusalem, took with them many treasures back to Rome, after which the Visigoths, many centuries later, sacked Rome and took their treasure to the Languedoc.

Hautpoul is one of the places where, according to legend, the treasure of Sion was temporarily hidden.

Nowadays the old stone houses are where artisans open their workshops, and the town is alive again. Take a rest under the shadow of a hundred year old chestnut tree or just admire the panoramic view of Mazamet from the old castle which overhangs the valley. From Hautpoul several hiking trails allow you to discover the Black Mountains its forests of sweet chestnut trees and spruces...

Hautpoul, where the remains of the 5th century Visigoth stronghold and the statue of Mary dominate the entire area, is definitely worth a visit.

Hautpoul is a brisk 45 minute walk from the Gite - with quite a few steep inclines, the Taverna (located in Hautpoul) provides a refreshing drink or meal.