The region surrounding Montréal is known as the malepère, a rural area known for its gentle rolling hills planted with wheat, sunflowers, and grapevines.
On its edges are the medieval towns of carcassonne, limoux, and mirepoix, all worthy of exploration especially on morning market days.
The canal du midi cuts across the valley to the north, allowing for relaxed walks, bicycle rides or rosé-soaked boat trips, and with delightful seasonal restaurants along its banks.
Slightly further afield the pyrenees, the mediterranean, and the city of Toulouse all offer their own magic for day trips.
No visit to the region would be complete without a tour of the medieval citadel of carcassonne, a UNESCO world heritage site.
The bastide st.louis, or lower town, is also worth a visit for its architecture and real-life scenes.
In the surrounding mountains are the ruined fortresses known as the "chateaux cathar", where fresh walks bring you up close to the history of cathar country and spectacular views of the countryside.
All year long the bounty of independent farms is on display at weekly markets and stalls scattered throughout the region.
From artisanal cheese, wine, truffles to fresh asparagus, melons and charcuterie you will find all your favorites and perhaps discover some new ones... grab one of our pocket knives and a corkscrew and make a picnic.
Another UNESCO world heritage site, the canal is a cool and shady place to share a glass of rosé on a hot summer day.
Explore on foot, bike or by boat and stop for lunch at one of the charming restaurants in the old lock-master houses.
Brocante, vide greniers, and antiques markets... lovers of all things old and french have lots of options.
Nearly every weekend from easter to christmas, villages host flea markets as well as monthly and seasonal brocante fairs.
For weekday and off-season shopping there are wonderful local shops and depots selling all kinds of vintage items, from humble household goods to fine antiques.
Montréal is located in the heart of the Malepère vineyard. This wine region is the most westerly area of the large Languedoc Roussillon wine region. Its specificity is due to both Mediterranean and Ocean climate and grape variety influences.
Amongst the number of vineyards near the guest house, you will appreciate the reception and the wine at Domaine Le Fort .
Original wine tasting workshops, based on a fun and sensory approach, are offered there every Sunday afternoon by Le Parfum des Anthocyanes .