An article we recently came across in the Mail on Sunday written by Kate and Greg Mosse outlined their experience over 30 years having a second home in Carcassonne. Kate’s wonderful books Labyrinth, Sepulchre and Citadel have many references to the streets and city as well as the stunning countryside surrounding Carcassonne. In fact you can follow the lead characters in her novel Labyrinth and follow their footsteps around Carcassonne when you come to visit.
For authors Kate and Greg Mosse, Carcassonne has been more than a destination—it has been a muse and a second home for over 30 years. In their words, the first glimpse of the medieval citadel still takes their breath away. “Even after more than 30 years, the first view of Carcassonne is still breathtaking,” Kate reflects, describing the magical moment when the Cité de Carcassonne rises into view from across the Aude River. This we very much agree with, whether you cross the Pont Neuf or Pont Vieux the view is incredible.
A Family’s Home Away from Home
The Mosses’ connection to Carcassonne began with the purchase of a modest, rustic house in 1990 for £20,000. Though it came with quirks—bare wires dangling from the ceilings and dusty old heaters—the family quickly made it their own. Over time, the house evolved into a writer’s retreat, complete with a wood-burning stove and a south-facing garden. Kate even found the perfect desk from a local junk shop to craft her novels.
Greg also draws inspiration from Carcassonne, though his thriller, The Coming Darkness, primarily unfolds in Paris. Still, he weaves in elements of the Pyrenean valleys, showcasing the region’s influence on his storytelling.
Exploring Carcassonne and Beyond
Carcassonne’s charm extends far beyond its walls. The couple highlights the Place Carnot market, where “none of the produce has traveled more than 30 miles,” as a must-visit spot for fresh food and vibrant atmosphere. For dining, Kate named her Labyrinth protagonist Alais after the fine dining restaurant La Table d’Alais, while Greg swears by the goat’s cheese salad at Le Trouvère and the hearty fare at Au Lard et Au Cochon.
Their children grew up exploring the ramparts of the Cité, racing along its narrow, cobbled streets and creating memories with wooden swords from souvenir shops. A family favorite is Cavayère Lake, just five minutes from the Cité, offering beaches, an aquapark, and scenic woodland trails.
For a deeper dive into history, the Niaux caves near Tarascon and the subterranean river at Labouiche offer fascinating glimpses into prehistoric and geological wonders.
A Timeless Source of Inspiration
While their journeys have taken them across the world, Carcassonne remains a constant for the Mosses. As Kate shares, it’s not just the history or the architecture that captivates—it’s the sense of life thriving amidst it all, from summer festivals to winter sunsets over the Hotel de la Cité’s private gardens.
For those considering a visit, Kate and Greg’s experiences serve as a guide. Whether you’re wandering through the markets, marveling at medieval architecture, or simply enjoying a sunset over the Pyrenees, Carcassonne promises to inspire and enchant, just as it has done for this literary duo.
Their story is a testament to the enduring allure of Carcassonne—a place where the past and present meet in breathtaking harmony. The article we read is available at https://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/escape/article-11367909/Authors-Kate-Greg-Mosse-reveal-Carcassonne-France-inspired-novels.html
You can bring your friends or family and enjoy the same wonderful experiences when you book Maison de l’Ambassadeur for a group visit to Carcassonne.
