Auberge Du Balestié

Ideally located in the heart of Cathar country, nestled on top of a hill, overlooking a picturesque lake and with magnificent views of the Pyrenees, our setting is quite simply outstanding. We are just 5 minutes from Mirepoix and 1/2 hour from Carcassonne. There is no public transport between Carcassonne and Mirepoix, so it is essential to have your own vehicle to get here and to explore this fabulous area. The building is set back over 200 metres from the road in open countryside, so there is no traffic or outside noise, ensuring a relaxing and peaceful stay. You will be warmly welcomed by Dave and Sylvia Allett, an English couple who have a passion for local food and wine, and who will do everything possible to ensure that you have a memorable and comfortable stay. The bedrooms are located in a separate building to the restaurant and all rooms have been refurbished and each have ensuite facilities. All rooms have either a double bed or twin beds and we have one family room with a double bed and 2 single beds. We are in a nature lovers paradise. The lake is home to egrets and herons and we have over 40 house martins nests and it is a real pleasure to watch the aerial acrobatics of these beautiful birds from April to September. We are also perfectly placed to explore the local area. We are only 5 minutes from the medieval town of Mirepoix and 30 minutes from the unmissable medieval walled city of Carcassonne. In the restaurant, we specialize in providing the very best of regional cuisine, local delicacies such as Cassoulet, duck confit and guinea fowl stuffed with foie gras. We also serve a range of imaginative fish and seafood dishes and can provide mouth watering dishes for vegetarians by reservation. We stock a selection of superb local wines with a variety to suit every dish. In the summer months a breakfast of freshly baked bread, croissants and pastries can be enjoyed either in the breakfast room or on the terrace overlooking the lake. English breakfast can be provided only by advance booking. There is a private guest car park. NB: Please note that our Guesthouse's cancellation policy is 48 hours prior to arrival.