March-April 2025

Eleven Nights in Carcassonne: Housesitting, Vineyards, and Hidden Gems

We spent almost two wonderful weeks housesitting in Carcassonne, caring for Guinness, a playful Standard Poodle. Our days were a perfect mix of scenic walks, indulgent meals, and exploring historic towns, making for a memorable stay in this charming corner of France.

Vineyard Walks, Lakes, and an Underground Wonder

Guinness kept us entertained on our leisurely walks through the vineyards and countryside with his favorite game—chasing pine cones.

A visit to Lac de Taure added a peaceful lakeside escape with stunning blue water, ideal for stretching our legs and taking in the crisp air.

For a change of scenery, we ventured underground to the Gouffre Géant de Cabrespine, one of the largest caves in Europe. Its towering rock formations and dramatic lighting created an otherworldly experience, a stark contrast to the golden vineyards above ground.

Culinary Delights: From Boulangeries to Cassoulet

French cuisine played a major role in our stay, from simple meals at home to indulgent restaurant experiences. Mornings meant visits to the boulangerie for croissants and desserts, while evenings were spent playing cribbage with wine, cheese, and charcuterie.

A highlight was dinner at Floricablanca, where we savored a perfectly cooked blue shark steak and the region’s signature dish—cassoulet, a slow-cooked stew of white beans, sausage, and duck. Whether dining out or cooking at home, every meal in Carcassonne felt like a celebration of local flavors.

Exploring Historic Towns and the Minervois Wine Region

Our love for exploration led us on several day trips. In Mirepoix, we reconnected with an old high school friend, wandering through its medieval square lined with half-timbered houses.

A stop in Caunes-Minervois was perfect for a stroll around the cobblestone streets taking in the red marble statues and unique door knockers.

A tour of Château La Villatade in the Minervois wine region deepened our appreciation for the area’s vineyards.

To round out our cultural experiences, we attended La Symphonie du Cinéma: John Williams at Théâtre Jean-Alary, a breathtaking performance celebrating the legendary composer’s film scores with scores featured from Jaws to Star Wars.

Final Thoughts

From vineyard strolls to historic town squares, our time in Carcassonne was a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. With Guinness as our companion, we soaked in the simple joys of slow travel, great food, and hidden gems.  We look forward to exploring more of France!