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Le Train Rouge

Embark, contemplate, discover!

A century-old railroad line in the heart of the unspoilt Agly and Fenouillèdes valleys

The Train du Pays Cathare et du Fenouillèdes, commonly known as "the Red Train", is a historic, century-old railway line that runs through our beautiful Agly valley.

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What if the best way to discover the hinterland was by train?

With a variety of themed routes to suit all types of adventure, whether full-day or half-day, this 60 km, century-old railroad line invites you to explore the Agly Valley (named after the Agly river that flows through the area), as well as the rocky terrain of Fenouillèdes and the neighboring Aude department, with its famous Cathar castles.

Choose your departure and arrival station (Rivesaltes, Espira-de-l'Agly, Cases-de-Pène, Estagel, Maury, St-Paul-de-Fenouillet, Caudiès-de-Fenouillèdes, Lapradelle-Puilaurens, Axat), your one-way or round-trip route and enjoy a contemplative stroll. Want to find out more about the area? The Train Rouge agent is on hand to comment on your trip and tell you all about the history of the area along the way.

The Train Rouge's regular routes run from April to the end of October, and special themed trains are introduced at several times of the year (Easter, Halloween, Christmas, sensory and gustatory trains).

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Train rouge_view from cases de pene over the valley_©Maëva Chevènement

Magnificent landscapes

A valley of vineyards and typical villages

In just a few hours, the Train Rouge will take you to a thousand and one treasures that are well worth the detour. You'll be seduced by spectacular landscapes, where orchards and vineyards give way to the craggy foothills of the Corbières, then to the deep forests of the upper valley. If you stop along the way, you'll be able to explore charming villages, meet locals with their sunny, rocky accents, visit relics, chapels and hermitages from the Middle Ages, or the majestic "Cathar" castles of Quéribus and Puilaurens.

Vines and wine are an integral part of the valley's identity. Lovers of the terroir will appreciate tasting the nectars for which the region is famous: Muscat de Rivesaltes, Rivesaltes, Maury, Côtes du Roussillon, Côte du Roussillon Villages, Haute-vallée-de-l'Aude. When you stop off in Rivesaltes, don't hesitate to come and meet the local wine professionals: estates, cooperative wineries, wine merchants and retailers await your visit!

Train rouge_view from cases de pene over the valley_©Maëva Chevènement
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A railroad line that's an experience

In summer, from June to September, board the panoramic train with its open and covered carriages, between St-Paul-de-Fenouillet and Axat. Between Rivesaltes and St-Paul, board a comfortable covered railcar.

Outside the summer months (April, May and October), you'll board a covered railcar for the entire route (Rivesaltes-Axat).

Looking for a unique sensory experience? Special themed trains run throughout the year:

  • Easter Train: chocolate egg hunt, entertainment and traditional Easter omelette.
  • Le Train Voyage Sensoriel: exclusive railcar train with storytelling and local food and wine tastings
  • The Fright Train: Halloween thrills for the whole family!
  • Santa's Train: snack, elf entertainment and gifts for children.
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Red Train Menus

Eat a local meal at one of our partner restaurants

From June to September, make a gourmet stopover in Rivesaltes: several restaurateurs welcome you for your lunch break. You're guaranteed a good meal in less than 2 hours, before getting back on the train.

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Our Gourmet Baskets

Picnicking and tasting in the city

Every Thursday from June to September, order your basket prepared by the Tourist Office and the Rivesaltes Traders' Association.
By reservation only.