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

Description for B&B:

Maison Rives, with its rich history dating back to before the French Revolution, is as captivating as the charming village of Montolieu itself. Every room in our establishment is adorned with furnishings that perfectly complement the streams of natural light pouring through the windows. Whether your room offers a breathtaking view of the bridge and the Alzeau Gorge or a picturesque village street, you can expect spacious, bright, and airy accommodations with en-suite facilities.

Start your day off right by enjoying breakfast in our salon, where we are more than happy to assist you in planning your day or providing directions. Additionally, we offer dinner options and organize thematic courses, including innovative cooking classes featuring regional and organic ingredients, photography walks and initiation sessions, and calligraphy training.

Families with children are warmly welcomed at Maison Rives, although we regretfully cannot accommodate pets. Conveniently, there are two easily accessible car parks located at distances of 150m and 200m.

Situated atop a rocky ridge between the Alzeau and Dure Rivers, Montolieu, originally known as Montis Olivis or Mount of Olives, welcomes its many admirers. Surrounded by Cathar castles, caves, abbeys, forests, fields, rivers, and lakes, this picturesque village in the Aude region of France boasts a historical pedigree that matches its natural beauty. Among its notable ancestors are Charlemagne and Colbert. Charlemagne founded the Monastery of St. Jean de Mallast in 800 AD, while Colbert, Louis XIV's minister, established a Royal Manufactory that exported high-quality woollen cloth. In 1146, the Viscount of nearby Carcassonne fortified the village. Early inhabitants of Montolieu, aside from nuns and monks, made a living tending to bountiful vineyards and olive groves. They also harnessed the power of river torrents to operate water mills, which fueled successful textile and paper plants. However, as times changed, the village experienced a decline, and its population of over 3,000 dwindled to approximately 900.

Fortunately, a passionate book lover stepped in and ignited a modern-day renaissance for Montolieu as a book village, or "village du livre." Today, the village attracts numerous visitors each year, including those who may not be book enthusiasts but are drawn to its natural and historical riches. Visitors can delight in browsing the shops while their book-loving companions indulge in the village's literary offerings, or partake in the various outdoor activities available in Montolieu's stunning surroundings.