I drew pictures of castles as a small boy and visiting the ancient fortified city of Carcassonne on a bike tour in 2013 was very special. I knew Marla would be intrigued as well. I booked Hotel de la Cite for our visit this year. At the time I was not aware of the hotel’s amazing history and pedigree.

Our car transport from the airport in Toulouse dropped us off at the special guest parking area outside the castle walls as cars are not allowed inside the fortress walls.

A very tiny car from the hotel picked us up and drove us across the old draw bridge and narrow castle entrance. We almost scrapped some of the stone walls!

We are quite jet lagged, but we’re here! The hotel which opened in 1909 was once a bishop’s palace built next to the castle’s southwestern wall and next to the church.

The entrance corridor leads down to the main lobby. The hotel has 59 rooms and suites spread around ancient adjoining buildings.

The lobby showcases large paintings telling the story of Carcassonne. The area was inhabited as far back as 3500 BC. It was an important strategic castle for the Roman’s beginning around 100 BC. It was later taken over by the Visigoths.

I would love to have witnessed all the famous people who once gathered around the piano with a cocktail.

The bar and library area are very nice.

La Barbacan is the hotel’s Michelin starred main dining room.

Breakfast was beautifully laid out in La Barbacan restaurant.

We explored around the grounds.

The swimming pool adjoins the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus.

Adjacent to the pool is the snack bar with nice lounge chairs for having lunch, a drink, or reading a book.

Our room had a beautiful private terrace under the trees.

This cabinet tells the fascinating story of many famous people who have stayed here. Walt Disney, Queen Elizabeth II, Johnny Depp, Jacques Chirac, and even Rudyard Kipling enjoyed being here.

Maurice Chevalier in 1933.

Josephine Baker stayed here in 1948. Her story is a must read!

Grace Kelly stayed in 1961.

Marla thought she would enjoy being transported by staff in the 18th century sedan chair.

A painting depicting Carcassonne on the hill in the Roman era.

The castle in possibly 18-19th century.

“Dinner or cocktails anyone?“

This ancient building is part of the hotel with rooms on the second floor and a bakery/coffee shop below. It was lovely walking around the city at night without all the crowds during the day.

Time to say “good night.”

Photos: Dick Gentry. Not to be used without permission. Some photos curtesy of the hotel.