Access via Carcassonne, Conques-sur-Orbiel, D101 towards Lastours. In the centre of Lastours, turn left onto the D701 towards Villanière, Salsigne and Belvédère. Park in the car park at the entrance to the Belvédère campsite.
(S/E) From the car park opposite the campsite, head towards the building on the right or, if it is closed, directly towards the gate to its right. When one is open, the other is closed. Continue to the viewpoint.
(1) From the viewpoint, return to the campsite and go around it on the right until you come to a path on the right that descends into the forest towards Lastours. Take this path to the bridge over the Grésilhou. Cross it and immediately take the footbridge on the right that runs alongside the Orbiel, following the signs for "Accueil. Visite des châteaux" (Reception. Visit the castles).
(2) First pass by the Cabaret.
(3) Then to the Tour Régine.
(4) Then to Surdespine. Descend to Cabaret via the eastern slope until you reach a crossroads.
(5) At this crossroads, on the right, you will find the castle village of Cabaret and on the left, the forge. After visiting these two sites, head south.
(6) Arrive at Quertinheux. Descend and return to the reception building, cross the road and the bridge, then turn right onto the path that leads back up to the campsite. Once at the top, go around the campsite on the right until you reach the road. Then turn left and finish the tour of the campsite until you reach the car park (S/E).
. Be aware, however, that there is a significant elevation gain, so make sure you have good shoes, water and fairly sporty clothing. For me, the numerous steps to climb up and down are more difficult than the very shady forest path from the belvedere car park. I highly recommend this hike, which will allow you to reconnect with nature and be transported back to France's beautiful history.