SLEEPS: 29 ● BEDROOMS: 14 ● BATHROOMS: 8
Fort de l’Éclipse
Eight Centuries of French History. Exclusively Yours.
Step into the storied past of Southwest France at Fort de l’Éclipse, a majestic 13th-century Cathar fortress nestled in the rolling Lauragais hills of the Languedoc. This chateau is not merely a holiday rental; it is a living piece of history. Initially constructed by a powerful Cathar lord before serving as a strategic ‘Commanderie’—a military headquarters—for the powerful Knights of Malta. Every stone and archway whispers tales of crusades and medieval life, offering a truly unique and evocative backdrop for your event or retreat.
Set within ten acres of entirely private parkland, manicured gardens, and lush grounds, the chateau provides a perfectly secluded setting where privacy and tranquillity are guaranteed. The estate has been lovingly restored by its current owner, blending its authentic period architecture with the luxurious demands of the modern era. Inside, you will find ten opulent bedrooms featuring antique furnishings and an eclectic mix of fine art objects.
The grounds themselves are designed for leisure and relaxation. Guests can enjoy private facilities, including a refreshing swimming pool surrounded by sunny terraces and views of the surrounding countryside. With expansive reception rooms and large dining areas, Fort de l’Éclipse is the perfect, exclusive venue for grand family holidays, unforgettable fairytale weddings, or high-level corporate retreats that require both inspiration and discretion.
Fort de l’Éclipse is ideally situated in the heart of the Languedoc region, known for its superb wines, regional cuisine, and proximity to major historic landmarks. You are conveniently located near the cultural hubs of Toulouse and Carcassonne, allowing for easy day trips to explore the medieval Cité de Carcassonne or the vibrant city markets. This exceptional location, combined with the castle’s rich legacy, ensures that your stay will be both relaxing and deeply enriching. Whether you are gathering a large group for a special celebration or seeking a magnificent base for exploration, Fort de l’Éclipse promises a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Property Features
Property Layout Options
Fort de l’Éclipse and Cottage: Total capacity up to 29 guests
Fort de l’Éclipse Only: Total capacity up to 21 guests
INTERIOR
– GROUND FLOOR – 5 Bedrooms for 10 guests
– Double bedroom (35m²) with en-suite shower room and separate WC
– Twin bedroom (24m²) which leads to a Double bedroom (15m², circular). Shared access to Bathroom with bath and WC
– Twin bedroom (21m²)
– Twin bedroom (16m²)
Bathroom with bath, shower, and WC (shared between the above two twin bedrooms)
– Entrance Hall (26m²)
– Guest WC
– Dining room (44m²) with fireplace
– Summer living room (34m²) with doors opening up to terrace and steps to gardens
-Kitchen (23m²), well-equipped
– FIRST FLOOR – 4 Bedrooms for 7 guests (plus 4 extra folding beds)
– Double bedroom (25m²)
– Double bedroom (45m² including raised platform) with en-suite shower room and WC
– Bedroom with a single and a queen-size bed (27m²) with an en-suite shower room and WC
– Double bedroom (28m²) with en-suite shower room and WC. The bedroom leads to an additional double bedroom (15m², circular)
– Upstairs dining room (24m²) with fireplace
– Billiard room (45m²) with fireplace
– Knights’ Hall/library (86m², suitable for events
– Separate WC
– Note: 4 folding single beds and 2 cots can be made available on request
– THE COTTAGE – Up to 8 more guests
– Ground Floor – 1 Bedroom for 2 guests
– Double bedroom (14m²) with en-suite shower room (7m²)
– Separate WC
– Entrance Hall
– Dining room (14m²)
– Living room (15m²) with fire-place and doors leading outside to front garden area
– Kitchen (11m²), well-equipped with a breakfast table
– FIRST FLOOR COTTAGE – 3 Bedrooms for 6 guests
– Twin bedroom (16m²)
– 2 x Twin bedroom (14m²)
– Bathroom with a bath and a washbasin
– Separate WC
– Note: 1 cot available for guests use
EXTERIOR
– Swimming pool (10m x 6m) with safety alarm. Open approximately May to early October
– Barbecue
– North and South terraces (château)
– Gardens, forest and parkland (4 hectares around the château)
– Various garden furnishings
FACILITIES
– Wi-Fi (repeaters are throughout the building. Most bedrooms have Wi-Fi)
– French billiards (château)
– Library (château)
– Table-tennis (château)
– Table football (château)
– Children’s games, toys
– Children’s books and DVDs
– Children’s bikes
– Access to a washing machine
| Local Ameneties | |
|---|---|
|
Nearest Airport |
Toulouse 1-hour drive |
|
Nearest Train Station |
Le Vernet d’Ariège 22-minute drive |
|
Nearest Supermarket |
7-minute drive |
|
Nearest Restaurant |
Belpech 7-minute drive |
|
Nearest Bar/Pub |
10-minute drive |
The location of Fort de l’Éclipse places guests directly in the heart of the historic Cathar Country and the picturesque Lauragais region, offering a rich variety of history, gastronomy, and outdoor activities.
Historic & Cultural Immersion
The Medieval City of Carcassonne (approx. 40 minutes): An unmissable UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest walled city in Europe. Explore the ancient double ramparts, the Château Comtal, and the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire.
Mirepoix (approx. 15 minutes): A charming medieval bastide town famous for its magnificent arcaded central square (Place des Couverts), colorful half-timbered houses (including the carved details of the Maison des Consuls), and its vast Gothic Cathedral of Saint-Maurice. The Monday morning market is highly recommended.
The Cathar Castles: Explore the spectacular ruins of the medieval fortresses associated with the Cathar movement. Close by are key sites such as Montségur (the last Cathar stronghold) and the dramatic citadels like Queribus and Peyrepertuse (the “Five Sons of Carcassonne”).
The Pink City of Toulouse (approx. 45 minutes): A vibrant city offering major cultural attractions, including the Capitole de Toulouse, the Basilique de Saint-Sernin, and the unique Space City theme park.
Gastronomy and Local Flavour
Castelnaudary (approx. 20 minutes): Known as the home of the world-famous Cassoulet, a hearty regional stew. Visit the Grand Bassin on the Canal du Midi and sample the authentic dish at one of the local restaurants.
Wine Tasting in Limoux: Drive to the town of Limoux (approx. 35 minutes), which claims to have invented the original French sparkling wine, the Blanquette de Limoux—predating Champagne. Numerous local wineries offer tours and dégustation (tastings).
Local Markets: Beyond Mirepoix’s famous Monday market, explore other regional markets for foie gras, local cheeses, Aude wines, and fresh produce.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Canal du Midi: The famous canal, a UNESCO site, is nearby (near Castelnaudary) and offers perfect opportunities for cycling, gentle hiking, or boat hire along its shady, plane-tree-lined towpaths.
Lac de la Ganguise: A large local lake offering a sailing club, windsurfing, and water sports.
The Pyrénées Foothills: Just a short drive south (approx. 40 minutes) are the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains, providing extensive hiking, cycling, and mountain biking trails, with ski resorts like Mont d’Olmes accessible in about an hour.
Rafting and Canoeing: The rivers in the Pyrenees region, such as the River Aude, offer exciting white-water sports like rafting and canoeing.
what we love
– Beautiful historic architecture and interiors
– Warm, attentive hosts
– Ideal for events and weddings
keep in mind
– Not the best-suited castle for small children d
– No air conditioning, but it stays relatively cool because of the thick walls
– History comes with it’s charm; some furniture or interior features show their age