Uncovering the Aude: Our guide to this undiscovered department
Each month I’m putting the spotlight on an area of France which is gaining global traction and offers a huge variety to home buyers and investors alike. This month we take a look at ..... the Aude
In the heart of the Occitanie department in Southwestern France is the largely undiscovered gem that is the department of Aude. Named for the river that goes through it, Aude really does have something for everyone! Whether you’re looking for coastal scenery, mild climate, mountain views, fascinating history, excellent wine, or fabulous food – it is all here! Wherever you base yourself, everything you could possibly want in France is just a short journey away.
The beautiful coastline stretches from Leucate to Narbonne, where there are countless beaches that offer the real southern French summer experience. Further inland brings you to the historic Cathar castles, including the world famous Carcassonne Unesco world heritage site. When you’ve had your fill of history and beaches, then you can discover Aude’s undulating hills and fabulous views overlooking the spectacular Pyrénées mountain range, which even has skiing. With stunning scenery around every corner, it’s no wonder that this department regularly features in the annual cycling Tour de France race! If you prefer more leisurely activities, then the Unesco world heritage classified Canal du Midi runs through Aude and is perfect for leisure boating, walking and taking in the French scenery. And if that’s not enough, Aude is just a 2 hour drive to Spain, making it a popular spot for those looking for a home that is well connected to other areas of Europe!
As part of the former Languedoc-Rousillon region, Aude is part of one of the biggest wine producing areas in France. There are many famous regions for wine lovers to discover such as Corbieres, Minervois, and Fitou to name just a few. Legend has it that monks in an abbey near Limoux created the first French sparkling wine long before sparkling wine started production in the more famous Champagne region. Yes, in Aude, wine is everywhere providing not only stunning scenery, but also livening up events throughout the year! Throughout the summer months, many local wine makers hold special events opening up their caves to the general public – “jeudis en Malepere” is a particularly popular weekly event each Thursday of the summer months where local winemakers in the Malepere appellation hold special events sharing their love of wine.
There is also plenty for foodies to discover in this area of France. From truffles to asparagus, chestnuts to cheeses and more. Aude’s farmers and food producers focus on quality and freshness. Castelnaudary is the home of the world famous cassoulet – their festival takes place in late August every year and is a spectacular party that spans the whole weekend and takes over the town. The coast offers some of the best seafood France has to offer – there really is nothing like buying oysters direct from the producers and eating them with a cold glass of something local and elegant whilst you are looking out at the sea. Areas of Aude are increasingly moving towards organic farming or “bio”, and there are numerous festivals throughout the year that celebrate this trend as well. Aude is also a large cheese producing region, and there are many farms that can be visited to taste and purchase directly from the producers.
Whether you are looking for a permanent move, or a holiday home the Aude department has a lot to offer. Still need some convincing that Aude is for you? Consider this - despite its many advantages, Aude is still relatively undiscovered and a bit off the typical property hunter’s track. That means that house prices and the quality and size of property that buyers can get for their budget can be excellent when compared to other more well-known areas of Southern France. In fact, lots of people decide that Aude is the place for them after starting their search in areas such as Provence or Cote d’Azur and working their way around the coast. When savvy property hunters discover the charms of this magical department, they are simply smitten! And with prices that are still good value compared to some other areas of France, properties in Aude are quite simply too good to resist.
Whatever you are looking for from France, if you haven’t considered Aude, then what are you waiting for? Come discover what real authentic Southwestern France has to offer you.
