Chez Liz et Paul
Posted by Richard on Monday 30th May 2016 at 05:51 PM
Liz and Paul have a villa - with pool! - in the tiny village of Castelnau-d'Aude, mid-way between Carcassonne and Narbonne. Lovely place to stay with excellent hosts!
Castelnau-d'Aude
Posted by Richard on Monday 30th May 2016 at 05:53 PM
The area in and around Castelnau-d'Aude is lovely. The river Aude and the Canal du Midi both run within a mile or so to the north of the village, and the Lac de Jouarres near Homps is a good alternative to the longer trip to the Med.
Minerve
Posted by Richard on Monday 30th May 2016 at 05:53 PM
A short drive north of Castelnau is the medieval village of Minerve. In the 13th century, during the crusades against the Cathars, this was the site of a famous siege and subsequent massacre. Sobering history, but a fascinating place to visit.
Gruissan
Posted by Richard on Monday 30th May 2016 at 05:54 PM
One of the closest points to Castelnau on the Mediterranean Sea is Guissan, just beyond Narbonne. Liz's friends Michelle and Mark have a penthouse apartment there - very nice.
Abbaye de Fontfroide
Posted by Richard on Monday 30th May 2016 at 05:54 PM
A trip to see (Liz and) Paul in France isn't complete without visiting an Abbaye! The
Abbaye de Fonfroide was a great choice - very serene and welcome relief from the searing heat. The walk to the cross on the hill overlooking the abbey was tough, but at least there was a cache at the top!
Viaduc de Millau
Posted by Richard on Monday 30th May 2016 at 05:55 PM
En route back to the airport at Montpelier, we took a 'slight' detour to the Viaduc de Millau. Absolutely breathtaking!
