Trekking the Cathar Way : The GR367 Sentier Cathare in southern France

Follow in the footsteps of the Cathars on the GR367 Sentier Cathare, a 260km (162 mile) long-distance trek through southern France. Starting at the Mediterranean coast near Port-la-Nouvelle and ending in the Pyrenean foothills at Foix, this remarkable route winds through vineyards, rolling hills, and rugged mountains, connecting a chain of ruined medieval castles and villages. Discover the turbulent story of the Cathars—a Christian sect persecuted during the 12th and 13th centuries—as you walk where history was made. Divided into 13 manageable stages of 12–27km (7–17 miles), the trek takes just under two weeks to complete and suits hikers with some experience. The terrain varies from gentle walks through rolling hills to strenuous mountain ascents of up to 1000m, all clearly waymarked with red-and-white GR balises and dedicated 'Sentier Cathare' posts. Nine iconic Cathar castles punctuate the main route, including the legendary Montségur, Roquefixade, and Foix. A shorter northern variant also offers a more remote alternative for those seeking a different experience. This guidebook provides everything you need to plan and complete your adventure with confidence. Step-by-step route descriptions are supported by 1:100,000 mapping for each stage, while downloadable GPX files enable digital navigation via GPS devices or smartphone apps. Practical guidance covers accommodation options (chambres d'hôtes, gîtes d'étape, auberges, and hotels), transport links, and supply stops along the way. Additional planning advice includes the best seasons to walk (April–June or September–October), detailed information on terrain and elevation changes, and helpful tips for navigating French and Occitan-speaking villages.