Description
The landscape and the journey
The Cathar Way, or Sentier Cathare, runs from the Mediterranean coast towards the Pyrenean foothills. Vineyards, hills, villages and ruined castles shape a journey in which history matters as much as the walking. Background on the Cathars helps explain the landscape and its surviving monuments.
Routes and itinerary options
The GR367 is described in 13 stages of approximately 12–27 kilometres, from Port-la-Nouvelle to Foix. A northern variant offers a different, more direct option for part of the journey. Montségur, Roquefixade and Foix feature among the castles. The stages support roughly two weeks of walking or shorter visits.
Maps and practical planning
1:100,000 maps accompany the routes, with GPX files available from Cicerone. Information covers gîtes, chambres d’hôtes, inns and hotels, transport and resupply. Terrain and ascent details help assess the days, while historical explanations encourage you to allow time for castle visits as well as the kilometres.
Choosing the right trip
Despite its coastal start, the route includes hillier, higher terrain and days with considerable ascent. Walking experience and good fitness are useful. Consider spring or autumn, heat and available services, and adapt distances to the weather and the time you want at historic sites.
About this edition
English-language guidebook by Luke Smith and Nell Sleet. Second edition, published in 2022. 160 pages. ISBN 9781786310477.
