http://www.walksworldwide.com/ President Sarkozy called for closer ties between France and the UK during his first state visit. Why not show willing in strengthening the Anglo-French 'entente cordiale' and experience real France far away from the prying eyes of politicians and staged handshakes.

Why not travel to  Corbieres region in the northern foothills of the Pyrenees, to walk amongst a lush and beautiful landscape of valleys, rolling hills and ancient forest during Walks Worldwide's 15-day self-guided In the Footsteps of the Cathars tour, departing Toulouse or Carcassonne weekly from March 2008.

The tour starts with a night in  Toulouse or Carcassonne, before transferring the following day to the small village of Duilhac sous Peyrepertuse.

This is followed by a walk  along the footpath, used by the persecuted Cathars during in the 12th and 13th century's, walking through rolling vineyard terraces, passing rustic country villages and old castles, offering spectacular panoramic views.

From high plateaux comes a descent  into valleys and alongside rivers before savouring delicious meals made from local produce in the evening.

Next comes a walk along the old walled lanes into local history during visits to the Galamus hermitage, Rennes Chateau, and Burgarach and the famous Puivert Castle.

It is an area of pine and oak forests  which opens up onto high plateau dotted with traditional mountain villages - and base for the night en route. The  famous 'Frau' gorge is  carved out of chalk, leading to the village of Montsegur with the  museum and local craft shops. From the mediaeval castle of Roquefixade, the journey concludes at Foix, where walkers can enjoy the lively atmosphere and shop for souvenirs in the market before returning back to the UK.