The Himalayan-style suspension bridge in Mazamet

High above the gorge, the Mazamet footbridge is a truly unique spot in Occitanie.

Just a 30-minute drive from Domaine Le Castelet, between Mazamet and the medieval village of Hautpoul, this 140-metre bridge affords spectacular views of the Black Mountain. 

There are two possible routes to this spectacular walk over the Arnette gorges. After parking your car in the Resse car park you can then go either via the Cormouls Houlès gardens, which features an 8% gradient for 1.5km, or La Jamarié, with a 19% gradient over 670 metres.

This is the start of a walk through the forest. Along the hiking route there are a number of places to stop for a break and admire the breathtaking views of the town of Mazamet and the Cormouls gardens. After a while, in a beautiful leafy clearing, you’ll come to the ruins of the church of Saint-Sauveur.

Just a few more metres and you’ll arrive at a sheer cliff edge, where your exertions will be rewarded by the spectacular view. 

At the start of the footbridge, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the whole valley and the Arnette stream. And now it’s time to cross the bridge, one of the highlights of the Black Mountain area. If you’re brave enough, you can look down as you cross and see the dizzying sheer drop through the mesh beneath your feet. 

Once you’ve made it to the other side and are safely on solid ground again, you can visit the Cathar village of Hautpoul. The architecture of the village, perched atop a 300-metre-high rocky outcrop, will take you back to Medieval times. The village is dominated by the ruins of the castle, which affords stunning views.

Hautpoul is the perfect place to stop for a picnic before wandering through the quaint narrow streets. The village is of considerable historic and cultural interest: in addition to the many original medieval architectural features, such as the stone troughs, gates and stone arches, there are a number of stalls and shops where local craftsmen sell their wares. Afterwards, you can hike up to the Rocher de la Vierge (Virgin’s Rock) where a magnificent 175-year-old horse chestnut tree stands. 

After this trip back in time, it’s time to head back: fortunately, it’s all downhill now. After this exciting, breathtaking excursion, you can go back to your comfortable room and relax.