Carcarsonne France – July 12/13
After breakfast we said our goodbyes and promised to try and meet two years from now for another hike. Paul and I talked about possibly going to Eastern Europe (Czech or Bratislava). Doug and Kalon were heading back to Colorado since Doug was working the next day. Mick and Susan were heading off with Paul and Lucy to southern France then off to Venice in Italy. Dan, Suz, Audrey and I were heading to Carcarsonne for St. Bastille day and then try to meet up with Paul and Lucy again in Nimes later in the week. Laura and Joe were heading to Switzerland and then Germany (I think). With the local van full, Dan had to run into town and pick up the train to the next town in order to get the rental vehicle. After a couple of hours Dan showed up with the rental and the four of us were off to Carcarsonne. With it being the day before St. Bastille day, the old market in Carcarsonne was corded off so Dan dropped us off close to our B&B and parked the car away from the action. Our apartment overlooked the square and the nightly entertainment was already performing sound checks. We spent the late afternoon picking up meat, cheese, wine and beer. The evening we were entertained concerts outside our windows and the boys taught the girls how to win at euchre again.
Click here to see videos of music show and Dan’s driving to Lastour Castles.
The next day we drove to Lastour to see the four Castles. We brought along a picnic lunch which consisted of, (you guessed it) wine, beer, cheese, ham and baguette. A real spectacular place with good hiking and great views of castles. Photos below: