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

Description for B&B:

Maison Rives, an ancient building predating the French Revolution, holds a captivating history that mirrors the charm of Montolieu itself. Each room is adorned with furnishings that perfectly complement the abundant natural light streaming in through the windows. Whether your gaze falls upon the bridge and the stunning Alzeau Gorge or the picturesque village street, all our rooms are spacious, bright, and airy, featuring en-suite facilities.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast in the salon, where we are more than happy to assist you in planning your day or finding your way around if needed. Additionally, we offer dinner options and organize various themed courses, including innovative cooking classes featuring regional, organic ingredients, photography walks and initiation, and calligraphy training.

Families with children are warmly welcomed at Maison Rives, although we regretfully do not allow pets. Conveniently, two car parks, one located 150 meters away and the other 200 meters away, are easily accessible.

Montolieu, originally known as Montis Olivis or Mount of Olives, rests atop a rocky ridge that separates the Alzeau and Dure Rivers, at the base of the Montagne Noire. This enchanting village in the Aude region of France boasts not only natural beauty but also a rich historical heritage, surrounded by Cathar castles, caves, abbeys, forests, rolling fields, clear rivers, and lakes. Charlemagne and Colbert are among its esteemed ancestors; the former founded the Monastery of St. Jean de Mallast in 800 AD, while the latter, a minister to Louis XIV, established a Royal Manufactory renowned for its high-quality woollen cloth. The Viscount of nearby Carcassonne fortified the village in 1146. The original inhabitants, aside from nuns and monks, earned their livelihood by cultivating bountiful vineyards and olive groves. They also harnessed the power of the river torrents to operate successful textile and paper mills. As times changed, bringing an end to those prosperous days over fifty years ago, the village's population dwindled from over 3,000 to approximately 900 individuals.

Fortunately, a passionate book lover intervened, spearheading Montolieu's modern-day renaissance as a book village, known as a "village du livre." Today, the village attracts numerous visitors each year, not only book enthusiasts but also those who appreciate its natural and historical splendor, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. While bookworms explore the shops, non-bibliophiles can indulge in the many outdoor activities offered by Montolieu's abundant natural and historical treasures.