Two Days, Two Castles: Exploring Medieval Marvels in Southern France Few places spark the imagination like the medieval castles of southern France. Over the course of two days, we explored two unforgettable sites—each steeped in history and surrounded by stunning landscapes. Day One: Cité de Carcassonne – A Timeless Fortress We began our adventure at the Cité de Carcassonne, one of Europe’s most iconic fortified cities. With its double walls, 52 watchtowers, and dramatic stone gates, this UNESCO World Heritage site feels like stepping straight into a medieval fairytale. The city’s origins trace back to Roman times, but the fortress as it stands today was largely developed in the 12th and 13th centuries. During the Cathar Crusades, Carcassonne served as a crucial stronghold as the Catholic Church sought to eliminate the Cathar movement. Its cinematic grandeur even earned it a role in Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (1991). We wandered the cobbled streets, took in panoramic views from the ramparts, and soaked up the sense of history embedded in every stone. Day Two: Hiking to Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours The next day, we set out for a more rugged adventure: a hike to Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours. With our loyal Standard Poodle, Guinness, trotting beside us, we made our way along trails that weave through dramatic cliffs and forested slopes. Perched above the Orbiel River, the four castles of Lastours—Cabaret, Surdespine, Tour Régine, and Quertinheux—rise from the craggy landscape like sentinels of the past. Built between the 11th and 13th centuries, they too played a significant role in Cathar history, providing refuge during the Albigensian Crusade. Unlike the restored splendor of Carcassonne, Lastours retains a wilder, more mysterious aura. The trail rewarded us with sweeping views of the Pyrenees and a tangible sense of connection to the region’s medieval roots. A Tale of Two Castles The juxtaposition of Carcassonne’s polished grandeur and Lastours’ haunting beauty made for an unforgettable two-day journey through southern France’s rich and turbulent past. Whether you’re drawn to imposing architecture, panoramic hikes, or centuries-old legends, this castle duo offers a truly immersive experience. Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Cité de Carcassonne Medieval Castle France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours Castle Ruins France

Carnival in Limoux, France: A Festive Tradition Full of Color and Joy The Carnival in Limoux (Carnaval de Limoux) is pure joy—a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of southern France. We attended the 4:30 PM procession, one of three daily parades that take place during this months-long celebration. Morning, afternoon, and evening performances ensure there’s always a chance to catch the fun. As we arrived in the central square, the atmosphere was buzzing with energy. Two different carnival groups took turns parading through the narrow streets, each accompanied by its own live brass band, filling the air with infectious rhythms. White confetti floated through the air in a constant stream, blanketing the streets in celebration. One group had us laughing with their hilarious costumes as elderly characters, while the other wowed the crowd with elaborate masks and vivid, colorful outfits, adding a touch of mystery to the lively scene. This isn’t your average carnival. Limoux’s Carnival is recognized as the longest-running carnival in the world, with roots stretching back to the 16th century. It began with local millers who, after paying taxes to the Dominican friars, would celebrate through the streets with music, performances, and merriment. Today, the carnival extends over several months, from January through March, offering a slow, festive rhythm unlike any other. The town square adds to the charm with a vintage carousel, timeless architecture, and the warm spirit of the locals. Limoux truly knows how to throw a celebration, and we felt lucky to experience a living tradition that bridges centuries of joy, creativity, and community. If you’re planning a visit to the Occitanie region in early spring, don’t miss the chance to experience this magical event firsthand. Limoux France Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) Carousel Limoux France Carnival in Limoux France (Carnaval de Limoux) https://youtube.com/shorts/pn58Wi8J6FIhttps://youtube.com/shorts/WSZ0U_Qp1Fs

Montolieu: A Quiet Escape to France’s Book Village Tucked away in the scenic hills near Carcassonne, Montolieu is a peaceful literary retreat often referred to as the “Village of Books.” Known for its charming bookshops, artisan workshops, and artistic spirit, Montolieu has drawn bibliophiles and creatives since the early 1990s. We visited during the off-season, when the town felt especially tranquil. The nearly empty medieval streets allowed us to take in the village’s rich character at our own pace. Stone facades with colorful shutters, narrow alleyways, and cozy bookstores filled with rare and second-hand finds made every turn feel like a story waiting to be discovered. Montolieu isn’t just about books—though they’re certainly the heart of it. The town also features several art galleries, a printing museum, and stunning countryside views that invite you to slow down and explore. The relaxed rhythm of life here encourages long walks, quiet reflection, and unhurried browsing. If you’re curious to learn more about the town’s literary history and what makes it so unique, this BBC feature on Montolieu paints a lovely portrait of its origins and ongoing appeal. Whether you’re a passionate reader or simply looking for a serene detour from the tourist trail, Montolieu offers a rich, thoughtful escape—one of southern France’s true hidden gems. Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village Montolieu France Book Lovers Village

Toulouse: A City of Food, Beauty, and a Start to Healing This trip to France marked a first for Joe and me together. I’d been to Paris years ago, but this was our first time experiencing France side by side—and after all we’ve been through recently, being here felt like exactly what we needed. Toulouse, with its golden light, winding streets, and slow, delicious meals, gave us room to breathe, reconnect, and begin to heal. Eating Our Way Through Toulouse Let’s start with the food—because Toulouse absolutely knows how to feed the soul. The Victor Hugo Market was a dream. The scent of warm bread, aged cheeses, and duck fat sizzling on a grill was intoxicating. Overwhelmed in the best way, we wandered from stall to stall, soaking in the atmosphere. I wish I could bottle that smell—it’s the aroma of joy. Then came the meals. At Prima Bonheur, we had truffle pizza—possibly one of the best pizzas of my life. At Bistroquet à la Une, we went full-on indulgence with truffle pasta and gorgonzola gnocchi, each bite rich and comforting. We couldn’t leave without trying duck confit at Au Gascon, and it did not disappoint—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, everything I’d hoped a classic French dish would be. Cartouches was another gem, where we chose the prix fixe menu. Every course impressed, but the meringue at the end was unforgettable—crisp on the outside, pillowy on the inside, like biting into a sweet, airy cloud. Magic, Machines, and Medieval Beauty Beyond the food, Toulouse surprised and delighted us in so many ways. We spent an afternoon at the Halle de la Machine, where massive animatronic creatures lumbered and breathed like something out of a mechanical fantasy. It was surreal and mesmerizing. Later, we visited the Couvent des Jacobins, a serene 13th-century convent with towering columns, a peaceful cloister, and an elegant garden path—proof of the city’s rich medieval past. The contrast between the two experiences—futuristic marvels and ancient stillness—captured the essence of Toulouse. The River, the Protest, and Finding Our Footing Again Some of our most meaningful moments were the quietest—strolling along the Garonne River, crossing the Pont Neuf, and watching the city glow in the sunset. There’s something grounding about being near water, a steady rhythm that invites reflection. Then, one afternoon, we found ourselves swept up in a massive anti-fascism protest. Thousands filled the streets with powerful chants and fierce solidarity. Toulouse has a proud history of resistance, and standing among those voices was emotional, humbling, and unforgettable. A City That Gave Us Space to Heal This wasn’t just a sightseeing trip—it was a reminder of the beauty in everyday things: slow meals, spontaneous detours, meaningful moments. Toulouse welcomed us with warmth, flavor, and depth. It reminded us how good it can feel to simply be. Victor Hugo Market Toulouse France Victor Hugo Market Toulouse France Victor Hugo Market Toulouse France Protest in Toulouse France Protest in Toulouse France Protest in Toulouse France Toulouse France Duck à l’orange Toulouse France Couvent Des Jacobins Toulouse Couvent Des Jacobins Toulouse Prima Bonheur Truffle Pizza Toulouse France Halle de la Machine Halle de la Machine Halle de la Machine Halle de la Machine Halle de la Machine Cartouches Toulouse France Street Art Toulouse France Pont Neuf Toulouse France https://youtube.com/shorts/euBxT54uiaEhttps://youtube.com/shorts/AMDC0c0_-sU