Understand

Venture into the enchanting mountain forests surrounding this area and immerse yourself in a world full of fascinating individuals who have escaped the bustling cities to live simple lives by the warmth of crackling fires. Here, the land is cherished, children thrive in healthy and stimulating environments, and music and dance fill the air. Discover the rich history of this region, once home to the defiant Cathars and their wandering troubadours who left an indelible mark. Legend has it that some of these courageous individuals, who were tragically burned at the stake for their beliefs, sang out that they would return 700 years later. Consider the new inhabitants of these mountains as the modern-day 'les nouveaux Cathars.' The first wave of pioneers arrived in the mid-70s, numbering around 30,000 free-spirited souls from all corners of the world, determined to revive the neglected old farms. The latest wave consists mostly of English retirees, investing in second homes. However, there is also a notable influx of younger people, primarily women, searching for spiritual enlightenment. Despite its rich history and recent influx of newcomers, the area surrounding Rennes le Chateau remains one of the most sparsely populated regions in all of Europe. For a virtual flight over Rennes le Chateau and to get a glimpse of its charm, visit the Hot Springs of Rennes les Bains and watch the video at La Mouline: www.lamouline.fr.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

The first popular French dish is Ratatouille, a colorful vegetable stew traditionally made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, and seasoned with herbs such as thyme and basil. This hearty, non-meat dish is typically served alongside grilled meats or fish.

Another famous French dish is Coq au Vin, a braised chicken dish that originated in Burgundy. It involves marinating chicken pieces in red wine with mushrooms, bacon, onions, and garlic before slow-cooking them until tender and flavorful. The final dish is often garnished with parsley and served with potatoes, noodles, or bread.

Lastly, the iconic French dish, Croissants, are flaky, buttery pastries made from layers of laminated dough, which are then curved into a crescent shape and traditionally served for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Although they are not typically a savory or sweet dish, croissants can be filled with various ingredients like ham and cheese (called a jambon-beurre) or almond paste and sugar (an almond croissant).

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing