Small Ruin of a cathartic castle, historical wise very interesting. About the ruin is not that much to see, what amaze me is that there were living up to 600 people on the rock. The view over the surrounding land is amazing, the way up is a bit challenging for a couch potato but do able. Take water and sturdy shoes with you.

Great walk. Not easy for everyone with a rocky steep path off.

The walk is pretty steep, but if you are a backpacker that came on foot from Lavelanet, then this additional part should feel like a reasonably-paced epilogue (unless you have run out of water on your way to the castle). There's little information available in English on the signs, so if you came here to read about the Cathars, be prepared to polish your French. As is often the case with high-altitude places, the view alone is worth the struggle. I must say the place doesn't feel particularly mystical, excluding the atmosphere of remoteness that its relative altitude creates. Guess that has to do with it having a more boring history after 1244

The climb to the castle ruins is approximately 1km in length, with an elevation gain of 250 metres, so it is not for the faint-hearted. The view from the top is fantastic and the history enthralling. If you imagine the events that took place here you wonder how people can be so cruel.

Well worth a visit if you’re in the area and enjoy a well earned vista! It’s a bit of a climb to the top, about 30mins up a pretty steep mountain side but the ruined Chateau fort and the views of the surrounding area are stunning. We didn’t take a trip to the village just down the road due to the heat but the ticket (€5 for an adult) allows free entry to the museum should you want to know more about this mystical ruin.

Spectacular! A priceless experience!

Such a magical place. Historic with some sadness combined. Well worth a visit

Incredible location! Really good wines

The castle isn't much to see but you go here for the view and history. There was a great guide (in french) explaining the story of the castle and the end of the cathars ... when I get back home I'll fire up medieval 1212AD and bring back the Cathars !!

Beautiful place and spectacular views from the top.

A lovely climb up from the carpark at the Col. Views are stunning if you are below the clouds, looking into the valley on both sides.

The climb to the top is not for the faint hearted. We got out photos from the car park but I am sure there are great views from the top.

Beautiful medieval castle full of history. The museum and town below are also lovely. Loved the view from the top after a tough but rewarding hike!

View at the top is fantastic. 30-45 min climb that's relatively steep but not too bad.

Amazing climb and views. Can download an ap to listen to history in english. 6 euros entry in cash. Steep but fine if you go gently. Can rent stucks for 2 euros if needed. I took mine and was glad to have them.

Most important of the 'Cathar' castles but not as frequently visited. Castle itself is decently well maintained. Nice views. Climb is not hard for people in decent shape.

It was a very nice visit, a bit hard to get up but thats okay, was just a disappointed that the info boards was only in French.

Impressive site although the existing ruin is not the Cathar castle but a later one. Fascinating guided visit (in French) added so much value. A steep climb to access the castle, not for the weak-hearted.

Amazingly crazy location. It’s a half hour climb up a very rough, steep and narrow path. Needs walking boots or good trainers and a reasonable head for heights. We are a reasonably fit 73. If you’re not reasonably fit , don’t do it. If you are, you MUST do it!

Come outside opening time and you won’t need to pay for the ticket. Besides nice view, it’s just a ruin which should be free to visit anyway.

Simply stunning. The climb up to the fortress takes about 45 minutes and is up steep uneven inclines and rough stone steps. Wear decent footwear! The interior is mostly empty ruin. The story of the Cathars and their brave struggle against persecution is compelling so read up or book a guided tour! How they existed in such a place and the effort it must have taken is almost unbelievable. The most amazing aspect though is the truly breathtaking views. Words aren't adequate to describe the impact when you first walk out of the archway in the rear wall. If you are in the Languedoc-Roussillon area, this place is an absolute ESSENTIAL place to visit.

Castle itself it's not the most beautiful but it surely it's the most interesting in the region. Our guided visit was also the most interesting, our guide is pasionate about history. 100% will recommend.

Amazing place. The climb up, whilst steep and a bit tough under foot, is worth the effort.

Beautiful chatue, situated right on the top of the hill. The hike is manageable, it takes around 30 minutes with easy steps going up. The view from the top it is really beautiful, as you can see all around.

Very interesting. Well worth the visit. Beware the long climb.

This place is full of mystery and shrouded with a mystical atmosphere. The view from the top is absolutely stunning. Clearly worths the climbing.

Quite a difficult climb going up, but what an amazing castle and view!

Well worth the effort to walk up