Step back in time on this 4-night tour of picture-perfect Carcassonne and Girona, two architectural powerhouses of France and Spain. Prepare for sensational city walls which echo with the battles of the past, coupled with historic cathedrals and delicious regional specialties which will make your mouth water.

Carcassonne is a city where medieval meets modernistic, where the historical Cité de Carcassonne, over two and a half thousand years old, collides with the contemporary Ville Basse (Town Centre) and its myriad of charming hotels and sights. If you’re a history buff, prepare to go weak at the knees. Boasting over 3 km of walls with 52 towers, Carcassonne’s medieval fortress has rightfully earned its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It was the setting for some of “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves” and was also said to be Walt Disney’s source of inspiration for the castle in “Sleeping Beauty.”

Located in south-west France,the strategic position of Carcassonne as a link between the Atlantic and Mediterranean attracted a whole range of conquerors over the centuries, included the Romans and Visigoths, whose footprints remain in the form of mighty basilicas (like that of St-Nazaire) and thick, sturdy ramparts which make for some amazing landscapes.

Minutes can very easily turn into hours when exploring the labyrinthine alleyways of this magical kingdom. Spend some time gazing up at the Basilique St-Nazaire’s rose windows which tower above, revel in the thrilling medieval jousting displays held twice a day or take some time to unwind on a relaxing barge trip along the Canal du Midi. If you’re not too squeamish, take a trip to the Torture Museum and, afterwards, fill up on regional specialties such ascassoulet and foie gras (that’s if you’re left with any appetite!).

After a riveting two nights spent in the time capsule that is captivating Carcassonne, we’ll whisk you off to Girona, another age-old historical gem located in Catalonia, Spain. When you consider the beautifully time-worn architecture of its Old Town (picture elegant churches and ornate cathedrals)surrounded by bulbous city walls, it’s no wonder Girona repeatedly comes out on top in nationwide polls on preferred city to live in.

Like Carcassonne, Girona has had its fair share of visitors over the years. Its Jewish quarter flourished during the 12th century and is currently one of the best preserved in Europe. After wandering its narrow streets and glimpsing the goings-on of yesteryear, stroll along the walkway of the huge extension of Roman walls and reward yourself with wonderful views of the city.

Next, marvel at the ancient cathedral, once used by the Moors as a mosque and currently considered the crème de la crème of Catalan Gothic architecture. Climb the eighty six steps necessary to reach the entrance and feast your eyes on the widest pointed stone vault in Christendom. You might even recognise some of the landscapes from a Game of Thrones episode.