Domaine de Russol – Historic 16th-Century Estate near Carcassonne
Escape to the heart of the Minervois at Domaine de Russol, an exceptional historic estate surrounded by vineyards, olive trees, mature woodland and the beautiful landscapes of southern France.
Located at Laure-Minervois, just 20 minutes from Carcassonne, this former fortified farm dates back to the 16th century and was once connected to the Benedictine Abbey of Caunes-Minervois. Passed down through the women of the same family since 1735, the domaine has an extraordinary history and retains an authentic sense of place.
Extensively renovated in 2020 and 2025, Domaine de Russol today combines centuries of character with high-quality accommodation and modern comforts, creating a wonderful setting for large family holidays, groups of friends, reunions and special celebrations.
Accommodation for Large Groups
With several independent accommodation options across the estate, Domaine de Russol can welcome groups of up to 44 guests while still providing plenty of space and privacy.
At the heart of the property is the beautifully restored 18th-century Maison de Maître, renovated in 2025 and offering three elegant suites and two double bedrooms, with five shower rooms and five WCs. One suite is also specially adapted for guests with reduced mobility.
Additional accommodation includes the spacious 130m² West Wing, the 90m² Gîte du Puits and the 80m² Gîte Cour de l'Olivier, each providing comfortable bedrooms, living spaces and kitchen facilities. For something a little different, the domaine's charming caravan can provide four additional beds, subject to availability.
The Maison de Maître has been awarded both 5 Épis by Gîtes de France and a 5-star Atout France classification, reflecting the exceptional standard of its restoration and accommodation.
- Pool, Gardens & Outdoor Living
Life at Domaine de Russol is made for enjoying the outdoors.
Spend long summer days beside the large sun-filled swimming pool, open from May to October, or enjoy a game of pétanque on the shaded boulodrome beneath the estate's mature pine trees.
Guests can explore the grounds and surrounding countryside on foot or by bike, while the park and woodland provide plenty of space for peaceful walks and time in nature.
Meals can be enjoyed beneath the melia tree in the courtyard, on the sunny terraces or in the cool shade of the historic Grange — perfect for long lunches and relaxed evenings together.
Families are particularly well catered for, with construction toys and board games, a large outdoor play structure with sandpit, two highchairs and a shallow area of the swimming pool suitable for younger children.
Pets are also welcome at the domaine.
- Perfect for Family & Group Holidays
Domaine de Russol is particularly well suited to multi-generational families and groups who want to holiday together without sacrificing space or independence.
Beds are made ready for your arrival, bed linen is provided and end-of-stay cleaning is included, leaving you free to simply settle in and enjoy your time in the South of France.
There is a fully equipped kitchen as well as a separate professional catering kitchen for larger groups. Breakfasts and meals for up to 30 people can also be provided on request, offering an added touch of luxury for special stays.
For celebrations and gatherings, the estate also has a remarkable collection of historic reception spaces, making it possible to host birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions and other private events without ever leaving the domaine.
- Discover the Minervois
The location is another of Domaine de Russol's great attractions.
Set in the heart of the Minervois, the domaine is approximately 20 minutes from the magnificent medieval city of Carcassonne and around 30 minutes from Narbonne and the Mediterranean coast.
The surrounding area offers vineyards, historic villages and some of southern France's most fascinating Cathar sites, including Lastours and Minerve, making the domaine an excellent base for exploring this beautiful part of Occitanie.
Everyday essentials are also conveniently close, with bakeries, pâtisseries, supermarkets and a local organic grocery store around 10 minutes away.
- A French Domaine with a Remarkable Story
Domaine de Russol offers something increasingly difficult to find: the opportunity for a large group to stay together on a beautiful historic French estate, surrounded by nature, yet within easy reach of some of the region's most celebrated destinations.
Whether you're planning a summer holiday with several generations of the family, a gathering of friends or a special celebration, Domaine de Russol combines history, space, privacy and authentic French country living with the comforts of a beautifully restored luxury property.
High SeasonMay-SeptemberFrom €1200 per night. Min nights: 1
High Season20/12 - 02/01From €1400 per night. Min nights: 1
Room breakdown
Bedrooms 17
Beds singles 16
Beds doubles 10
Beds queens 1
Beds kings 2
Bathrooms 5
Bathrooms family 1
Bathrooms ensuite 3
Location
Town
Laure-Minervois
Department
Aude
Town - Laure-Minervois 3KM, 5 minutes
Town - Trèbes 14KM, 15 minutes
Town - Carcassonne 20KM, 20-25 minutes
Train Station - Carcassonne 20KM, 20-25 minutes
Airport - Carcassonne Airport 24KM, 25 minutes
Airport - Béziers 90KM, 1h10 minutes
Airport - Toulouse 125KM, 1h25 minutes
Local area description
Laure-Minervois is a traditional wine-growing village in the Aude department of Occitanie, surrounded by vineyards, olive groves and the rolling countryside of the Minervois. Offering an authentic taste of life in the South of France, it is an excellent base for exploring this beautiful and historic region.
The magnificent medieval city of Carcassonne is within easy reach, with its UNESCO-listed fortified Cité, atmospheric streets, restaurants and impressive castle walls. The surrounding countryside is dotted with picturesque villages, vineyards and historic sites, including the spectacular Cathar castles of Lastours and the beautiful village of Minerve.
Wine lovers are particularly well placed to discover the renowned Minervois vineyards, with numerous domaines and wine producers offering tastings throughout the area. The Canal du Midi provides opportunities for walking, cycling and leisurely days beside the water, while the landscapes of the Montagne Noire are ideal for exploring further afield.
For a change of scenery, Narbonne and the Mediterranean coast are also accessible for day trips, combining historic sightseeing with beaches and seaside restaurants.
With its sunny southern climate, wonderful local produce, weekly markets, vineyards and wealth of historic attractions, Laure-Minervois is a lovely destination for guests looking to experience the relaxed pace and authentic character of southern France.