From its rocky outcrop Minerve dominates the gorges of the Cesse and Brian rivers which carved the narrow canyons and created a natural fortress. In the dry season, feel free to explore their famous natural bridges, tunnels pierced in the limestone plateau.

Its medieval streets hold memories of the Cathare époque, evoked by the Colombe memorial, by JL Séverac, and also in the Hurepel museum. To find out more about Minerve why not join in one of the night time costumed and torch-lit guided visits, organised by the Tourist Office 14 July -15 August.

Another visit option are the fabulous Art et Patrimoine (Art and Heritage) trails organised by the association Les Grands Chemins en Minervois. These trails highlight emblematic places with specially commissioned works of contemporary art. This summer they feature Minerve as well as Pepieux, Salleles d’Aude, Le Somail and  Caunes-Minervois. This is a fantastic invitation which brings together some 30 works of art.

The exceptional Minerve, capital of the Minervois region and gateway to the prestigious Haut-Languedoc park, is a delight every step of the way. www.les-grands-chemins.fr