Routier – Wine Routes, Horse Riding and Heritage

When planning a stay in Routier, you can first decide what to focus on: history, a hiking route with a wine connection, cycling or horse-riding activities. The options differ in the type of activity and the timing involved. Before looking for a hotel in Routier, consider whether you want your stay to include a visit that requires a reservation, a seasonal activity or a particular route.

Heritage in Routier

The bell in Routier church bears the year 1571 and is protected as a movable cultural object. Its protected status is dated 30 September 1911. The two dates have different meanings: 1571 appears on the bell, while 1911 indicates the date of its protected status. Looking at a single object therefore gives you both a historical reference and an indication of its heritage classification. The walled bell tower of Routier is also one of the sights mentioned on VTT circuit No. 45. This lets you combine a cultural connection with a cycling trip.

Hiking and cycling routes

The Sentier des Vignerons passes through villages in the Razès and follows the Chemin des Moulins in Routier; along the way, it introduces grape varieties from the Malepère appellation. The route’s connection with wine and grape varieties continues beyond Routier through villages in the Razès. On VTT circuit No. 45, the walled bell tower of Routier is one of the sights mentioned. When comparing routes, you can weigh the hiking trail’s connection with wine and grape varieties against the cycling circuit, which features the tower as a sight.

Wine and seasonal activities

The Cave du Razès was established in 1947 in the former railway station in Routier, in the Aude department, and is connected with the current Les Vignobles de Vendéole operation. At Les Vignobles de Vendéole, cellar tours are available year-round by prior reservation. You can sample the 2026 wines at the shop free of charge at any time; in summer, electric scooter rides through the vineyards are offered. The options differ in timing and booking requirements: cellar visits are available year-round, while the rides are a summer activity. Check the booking details before visiting the cellar.

Horse-riding activities

Les Fjords du Razès is an equestrian leisure facility in the commune of Routier, offering rides, trail rides and riding lessons. Rides are offered from April to November. Pony activities are available for younger children; sessions in mediation and equitherapy are also offered. For planning purposes, it is useful to distinguish between the different options: rides and trail rides, lessons, pony activities, and sessions in mediation and equitherapy are separate offerings. If you plan to go on a ride, make sure your dates fall within the stated season from April to November.

Discover more destinations: Cucugnan, Tournissan, Belvianes-Et-Cavirac, Canet, Badens, Raissac-D'aude, Aigues-Vives, Saissac

Return to the broader travel overview: Aude.