Quillan

Quillan is a commune in the Aude department in southern France.

Geography

Quillan is located at the foothills of the Pyrenees, on the road between Carcassonne and Perpignan. The River Aude runs through it. At the base of the mountains, swathes of sunflowers and grapes saddle the roads and green fields meet white-capped peaks. The location is thought of as one of the most spectacular in France, which is one of the reasons for the increase in tourism and migration to the area. Peyrepertuse, Montsegur, Puilauren, Queribus, Roquefixade and other ancient Cathar sites are within easy reach. The beaches of the Mediterranean are little more than an hour away. In the other direction, the awe of Carcassonne is 45 minutes drive, while the majesty and sophistication of Toulouse is one and a half hours away. Quillan is a medium sized town 6 km from Espéraza, neighbouring the commune of Ginoles, and is popular for white water rafting, canoeing, fishing and kayaking on the Aude River and other outdoor activities including cycling, rambling and running.