We love —
- Discovering Carcassonne from the refined setting of Hotel du Roi & Spa, with the Eliospa wellness centre close at hand.
- Exploring the vineyards, villages and landscapes of Languedoc-Roussillon from a comfortable base.
- Extending the journey at Le Grand Balcon Hotel for a final chapter in the heart of southern France.
Customer reviews —
Welcome to France —
This carefully curated journey takes you to the heart of Carcassonne, where one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities forms the backdrop for a stay at Hotel du Roi & Spa 5*. With its Eliospa wellness centre, regional gastronomy and refined interiors, the hotel offers a calm and considered base from which to explore the ramparts, vineyards and landscapes of Languedoc-Roussillon.
The journey then continues to Le Grand Balcon Hotel, where a change of setting adds a further dimension to the stay.
Our offers:
Offer 1: Hotel du Roi & Spa by Sowell Collection 5*
Offer 2: Hotel du Roi & Spa by Sowell Collection 5* & Grand Balcon Hotel 5*
4 nights: 2 nights Classic at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 2 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
4 nights: 2 nights Deluxe at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 2 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
5 nights: 3 nights Classic at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 2 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
5 nights: 3 nights Deluxe at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 2 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
7 nights: 4 nights Classic at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 3 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
7 nights: 4 nights Deluxe at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 3 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
7 nights: 5 nights Classic at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 2 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
7 nights: 5 nights Deluxe at Hotel du Roi & Spa + 2 nights Classic at Le Grand Balcon Hotel
A first glimpse of your holiday —
Hotel du Roi & Spa by Sowell Collection 5* —
Ideally located on the banks of the Aude, near the Old Bridge in historic Carcassonne, the Hôtel du Roi & Spa by Sowell Collection 5* offers a breathtaking view of the medieval city, just a ten-minute walk away.
It is the perfect base for discovering the Languedoc-Roussillon region, which boasts a UN World Heritage Site and medieval architecture. Rooms are spacious, and the on-site restaurant is sure to satiate your cravings for French cuisine.
Your room —
Choose between a stay in a Classic Double Room or Deluxe City View Room.
Classic Double Room (27 m²)
Enjoy the spacious Classic Double Room, which contrasts the historical setting with chic, modern interiors. The Classic Double Room features a plush bed to retire to after a day of exploring and modern amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Deluxe City View Room (27 m²)
The Deluxe City View Room is spacious with plenty of natural light. Marvel at the view of the medieval city while delighting in the stylish interiors and modern amenities. The bathroom is beautifully designed and hosts a range of toiletries for your disposal.
Your dining choices
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Regional 2-course dinner (drinks excluded)
Savour a classic regional cassoulet: white lingot beans slow-cooked in duck fat, duck confit and Toulouse sausage, followed by a generous dessert. A truly memorable dish to share.
Your time
Embark on a wondrous journey at your own leisurely pace with the hotel's bike rental service. Unwind and rejuvenate your senses at the Eliospa Spa, where you can immerse yourself in the luxurious sanctuary of a sauna, hammam, or whirlpool, or indulge in a blissful array of rejuvenating treatments.
Optional activities —
Personalised relaxing massage (45 minutes)
The ideal remedy for relieving neck and back pain, rheumatism and both mental and muscular fatigue. Whether for pure relaxation, prevention or therapeutic purposes, lie back, close your eyes and enjoy a truly unique moment of rest and wellbeing.
Hydromassage (15 minutes)
A deeply restorative treatment targeting neck and back tension, rheumatism and both physical and mental fatigue. Perfect for unwinding, recovery or simply taking a well-earned break — settle in, let go and enjoy.
Optional services —
Baby cot
Add a baby cot to your room for extra comfort during your stay.
Le Grand Balcon Hotel 4* —
Just for you:
- Late check-out at noon
Located on the Place du Capitole, in the heart of downtown Toulouse, the hotel Le Grand Balcon 4* is housed in a charming, historic building dating from 1930, designed by the architect Jean-Philippe Nuel. The perfect balance between tradition and modernity, the hotel offers a warm and unique atmosphere with numerous facilities at your disposal.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Classic Room.
Classic Room (20 m²)
A comfortable and well-appointed double room with a contemporary design and a warm, quiet atmosphere. A Nespresso machine and minibar are provided as standard.
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 1 x drink at the bar (wine or soft drink) per person per stay
This is a bed and breakfast stay.
Start your day with an American breakfast buffet. Choose between sweet and savoury dishes, pastries, cereals, fruit juices, or cheese and cold cuts. In the evening, enjoy a cocktail at the bar. Modern and uncluttered, the decoration is inspired by the 1930s architecture throughout the hotel. Choose from a selection of beers, wines, and other homemade cocktails.
Your time
The Grand Balcon Hotel offers you wellness services by reservation in the comfort of your room. Or, choose to explore the surrounding area. The hotel's location makes it easy for guests to explore the heart of the city and the historic center. Visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the Jacobins Convent, the Wilson square, or the Saint-Etienne cathedral.
Your journey to France —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Carcassonne
Arguably one of the most picturesque medieval cities in France, Carcassonne is famed for its stunning walled fortress, the Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the Gallo-Roman period. The fortress boasts 52 towers and two enclosures, stretching over 3 kilometres. Perched on a hilltop, this enchanting city offers panoramic views of the surrounding Languedoc region, making it a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
MUST-SEE:
- Cité de Carcassonne: Explore the impressive walled city, with its 52 towers and the iconic Castle of the Counts.
- Basilica of St Nazaire and Celsus: A magnificent church with a rich history, once blessed by Pope Urban II in 1096.
- La Cité: Wander the cobbled streets of this medieval marvel, where you’ll feel transported back in time.
- Lower City (Ville Basse): Discover authentic local restaurants and the Musee des Beaux-Arts, showcasing European art from the 17th century onwards.
- Castle of the Counts: Visit the former residence of the rulers of Carcassonne, steeped in history and architectural grandeur.
CULINARY CULTURE:
Carcassonne offers a true taste of Languedoc cuisine. Savour hearty local dishes such as cassoulet, a slow-cooked stew of beans, sausage, and duck, paired with wines from the region's celebrated vineyards. The lower city is home to a variety of authentic restaurants serving traditional fare, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of exploration.
DIVE DEEPER:
Beyond the historic sites, explore the surrounding countryside, ideal for hiking or visiting charming vineyards. The town’s rich history makes it a perfect base for further adventures in the Languedoc region.
GOOD TO KNOW:
Carcassonne is easily accessible by train, and the best time to visit is in spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Toulouse
Toulouse, the Ville Rose, enchants visitors with its sun-drenched facades, winding waterways, and centuries of artistic heritage. A vibrant blend of past and present, the city invites you to savour its architectural treasures, lively markets, and laid-back charm. Stroll through its atmospheric streets, where history and culture are woven into every brick.
Must-sees:
- Couvent des Jacobins: A striking example of Southern Gothic architecture, this former monastery features an awe-inspiring palm-shaped vault.
- Canal du Midi: Glide through the city by renting a licence-free boat, discovering Toulouse’s waterside beauty at your own pace.
- Place Wilson: The perfect spot to pause at a café terrace and admire the elegant architecture framing this bustling square.
Culinary culture:
Toulouse’s cuisine is a celebration of Southwest France’s flavours, with local markets brimming with delicacies. At Marché Saint-Cyprien, sample the iconic saucisse de Toulouse, perfect for an authentic cassoulet. For a lighter bite, savour croustade aux pommes or artisanal cheeses, best paired with a glass of local Gaillac wine.
Dive deeper:
Beyond the landmarks, Toulouse offers a wealth of lesser-known gems. Discover Les Abattoirs, a contemporary art museum housed in a former slaughterhouse, or seek out intimate jazz bars where musicians pay homage to Claude Nougaro, a beloved son of the city. The local love of music and art imbues every corner with creativity.
Good to know:
The ideal time to visit is: spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild, and the city’s café culture thrives. Toulouse’s compact centre is best explored on foot, but bicycles and riverboats offer unique perspectives. Local artisans craft beautiful violet-scented products, a fragrant nod to the city’s floral emblem.