There are a number of well preserved and lovely villages in the region, all accessible within 30/45 minutes by car from Carcassonne. Any of them are accessed via lovely country roads winding through some of the most productive wine growing areas in the world.
Amonst one of the most impressive is: Mirepoix
Known for its Monday morning market and incredibly well preserved mediaeval half-timber village center, this village is worth a road trip especially if you make time for wine tasting as one of the lovely wine cooperatives or domains in the area.
Learn more by clicking on this link
https://www.ariegepyrenees.com/decouvrir/incontournables/les-plus-beaux-villages/mirepoix/