La maison Rives, Montolieu. Holiday Rentals & B&B

Description for B&B:

Maison Rives, with a history dating back to before the French Revolution, is just as captivating as the village of Montolieu itself. Each room is adorned with furnishings that perfectly complement the natural light streaming through the windows. Whether your view overlooks the bridge and Alzeau Gorge or the charming village street, our spacious and airy rooms all come with en-suite facilities.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast in the salon, where we can assist you in planning your day or finding your way around if needed. We also offer dinner options and organize various thematic courses, including innovative cooking classes featuring regional and organic produce, photography walks and workshops, as well as calligraphy training.

Families with children are warmly welcomed at Maison Rives (unfortunately, pets are not allowed). Conveniently, there are two car parks located nearby, one at a distance of 150m and another at 200m.

Montolieu, originally known as Montis Olivis or Mount of Olives, is situated on a rocky ridge that separates the Alzeau and Dure Rivers, nestled at the foot of the Montagne Noire. This picturesque village in the Aude region of France boasts a rich historical background that matches its natural beauty. Surrounded by Cathar castles, caves, abbeys, forests, rolling fields, and pristine rivers and lakes, Montolieu captivates the hearts of its many visitors. The village has a fascinating lineage, with notable ancestors such as Charlemagne, who founded the Monastery of St. Jean de Mallast in 800 AD, and Colbert, Louis XIV's minister, who established a Royal Manufactory known for its high-quality woollen cloth. In 1146, the Viscount of nearby Carcassonne fortified the village. Its early inhabitants, aside from nuns and monks, cultivated vineyards and olive groves, and harnessed the power of the rivers to operate successful textile and paper mills. However, as times changed and progress took its toll, the once-thriving community of over 3,000 residents dwindled to around 900.

Fortunately, a book lover stepped in to ignite a modern-day renaissance in Montolieu as a book village, or "village du livre." Today, the village attracts numerous visitors each year, not only book enthusiasts but also those who appreciate the natural and historical treasures that Montolieu offers. So while bibliophiles explore the charming bookshops, non-book lovers can indulge in the abundance of outdoor activities found amidst Montolieu's natural and historical splendor.