Lynn woke up with a cold - drippy nose, sore throat, and a mean cough, so she stayed back today while the others went in search of one more castle to conquer, this one just an hour northeast.
Just under half-way is the town of Fanjeaux. Dave can't resist a stop there for the great views. (More about this town here: https://retiredtraveller.blogspot.com/2024/05/cassoulet-at-castelnaudary-may-3-2024.html )
 |
| random bicyclists also looking at the view |
The Lastours castle is actually 4 castles built on a narrow stony ridge above 2 rivers (Orbeil & Grésilhou).
 |
| view from belvedere across the valley from Lastours |
In the Albigensian Crusade, Lastours was friendly towards Cathars, even sheltering the Cathar bishop of Carcassès. As a center of resistance to the Crusade, they withstood attacks for 6 more years, but finally capitulated in 1229, at which time the king of France built the Tour Régine as a reminder of his power.
As usual, you climb to the top of the rocky ridge, explore the ruined remains of the 4 castles, and then walk back down. The difference is that today is really hot - 85 degrees, which makes the hike uncomfortably warm. (Since I wasn't there, the photos have no further explanation.)
 |
| taking a break to do another kind of climbing |
 |
| there were caves you had to walk through |
 |
| Made it! |
Once up, you had to walk from one castle to another through the ruins.
And then back down to the town. It seemed longer than the way up.
But at the bottom there's a river where you can dip your feet to cool off. Thank goodness.
Once home, we made a bread pudding for dessert while Dave grilled pork tenderloin. The day was so lovely we could eat on the patio and enjoy our mountain views.
No comments:
Post a Comment