View of Château d'Usson

Usson Castle, located on the border between Aude and Ariège, emerges from the high Pyrenean forests on a rocky spur at an altitude of 920m above the Aude and Bruyante rivers. Mentioned for the first time at the beginning of the 11th century, it is the fortress of the ancient lords of So and Alion. After having constituted a refuge for the Cathars, it served as a rampart against Spanish invasions until the signing of the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659. It fell into disuse with the distance from the border and then became the residence of the Marquis d'Usson until the Revolution when it was dismantled and sold in different lots to serve as a quarry throughout the 19th century. Today, consolidated and saved from ruin, this remarkable site is open to visitors and houses the Heritage House within its walls.

Shortly after beginning the ascent to Port de Pailhères on its eastern slope, the Usson castle can be perfectly admired in its splendor. The view of the castle continues during the first 3 km, so you can take several panoramic views of it.

If you are not sitting on the racer and driving through beautiful countryside, you could visit the castle