With Mongolia looking further away than ever, we’re heading south for the winter – possibly to Morocco – although the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune are not being kind to that particular plan… Watch this space to see if we ever get there!
In the meantime, we’ve been exploring southern France, particularly the Lovely Languedoc region, which is rich in history, wine, and magnificent scenery.
Check out my series of posts, which explore this very individual region, and see what sets it apart from other parts of France.
Château de Quéribus: Vertigo, Vineyards & Very Good Wine at The Last Cathar Stronghold
“The last mile or so is a 17% gradient,” Mark told me as he flung The Beast around tight hairpins. The road we were climbing was ‘only’ 10%, and I wasn’t enjoying the view from my side. I stared down a dizzying expanse of nothingness that I knew had no margin for error. Silently, I…
Hairpins, Hitchhikers & the OSS – Caudiès-de-Fenouillèdes
“Well, that was an interesting drive,” I said. I used that special tone of voice. The one reserved for occasions when you know you’ve narrowly avoided becoming a news headline. The fortress of Montségur stayed wrapped in so much moody cloud that we didn’t realise there was a path that led to the village below.…
Montségur: Mist, Martyrs, & Heavy Metal
I read that in cycling terms, the Col de Montségur is a Category 2 mountain pass, popular with those slender, Lycra-clad aliens who chase gradients for glory. The same article revealed it to be known for scenic views, the highlight of which is a spectacular perspective of a historic castle ruin. Perched atop a pog…
Cover Photo – the fortified city of Carcassonne
Below – The Fab Four at Château de Quéribus, a Cathar Castle in the Languedoc
