Trekking the Cathar Way - Luke Smith, Nell Sleet

Follow in the footsteps of history along the GR367 Cathar Way (Sentier Cathare), a 260km (162 mile) trek from the Mediterranean coast at Port-la-Nouvelle to the Pyrenean foothills at Foix. This long-distance route threads through vineyards, rolling hills, and rugged mountains, connecting a chain of ruined medieval castles and villages that reveal the turbulent story of the Cathars – a Christian sect persecuted during the 12th and 13th centuries. Suitable for hikers with some experience, the route is divided into 13 stages of 12–27km (7–17 miles) and takes just under two weeks to complete. A northern variant offers a shorter, remoter option, while the main route includes nine iconic Cathar castles, culminating with Montségur, Roquefixade, and Foix. The path varies from gentle walks through rolling hills to strenuous ascents of up to 1000m and has clear waymarking and signage, with clear red-and-white GR balises, additional ‘Sentier Cathare’ posts, and helpful markers indicating the northern variant or misdirection points. Step-by-step route descriptions supported by 1:100,000 mapping for each stage of the Cathar Way, helping you navigate the Languedoc’s hills, valleys, and rugged Pyrenean foothills with confidence. GPX files available to download, providing digital navigation for each stage of the GR367 and enabling flexible planning with GPS devices or smartphone apps. Historical highlights include the Cathar castles of Montségur, Roquefixade, Foix, and other medieval fortresses, offering insight into the region’s turbulent 12th- and 13th-century history. Accommodation, transport, and facilities guidance, including chambres d’hôtes, gîtes d’étape, auberges, and hotels, as well as advice on where to stock up on supplies along the route. Route options and variants, with the main GR367A southern route linking all nine Cathar castles, and a northern variant for a shorter, more direct walk that still showcases beautiful scenery. Planning advice including best season to walk (April–June or September–October), expected terrain, elevation changes, and tips on navigating French and Occitan-speaking villages along the route. Plan your Cathar Way adventure with confidence, exploring one of France’s most captivating historical landscapes while enjoying a well-signposted and carefully mapped long-distance trek.