Spring Break.............

[Formerly YB-2]

Off to the south for a couple of weeks next month. South of France that is. Wife tells me we need to practice our French. Headed to Nice & Carcassonne for some good food, vin & general relaxation. Only problem is we are flying (much prefer a ship). Am looking at this as 'practice' for our summer in Brittany & Loire Valley (house trade with friends).

[Antonmb]

Tres bien, I love that part of France.

[Formerly YB-2]

We are lucky. We love all parts of France and our biggest problem in visiting is "where to go next". Obviously, we are seeking a bit of warmth in March, so the Aude is just the ticket. We have been enjoying the 'newer' wines (vines) from the region. Spending some time at the Chateau L'Hospitalet in hopes of discovering some addition regional wines. They offer a tasting with dinner.

[bart]

Glenn, Carcassonne is a lovely town, and at that time probably less crowded than during summertime.
You're right, some amazing wines from that region.

[Formerly YB-2]

Lack of crowds is another reason for an 'early' visit. Like Paris and Aix-en-Provence, Carcassonne can become gridlocked with tourists in 'season'.

[80B]

Glenn,
Have a great time - there are a lot of interesting smaller towns in Languedoc-Rousillon. We enjoyed a night or two in Mirepoix a few years ago; which is about equidistant from both Carcassonne and Montsegur.

[Formerly YB-2]

Thanks. We are having lunch in Palavas on the way from Nice to Carcassonne. Le Lizard on the beach served us an excellent meal last time we were in the south. May try the Petite Lizard this time, just to be different.
Hoping to have lunch in Limoux to try some of the local sparkling wine, Blanquette de Limoux. Can't have too much sparking wine (champagne, cremant, cava, etc.).

[antipop]

Originally Posted by 80B

Glenn,
Have a great time - there are a lot of interesting smaller towns in Languedoc-Rousillon. We enjoyed a night or two in Mirepoix a few years ago; which is about equidistant from both Carcassonne and Montsegur.

Mirepoix is a great little town and the square is quite wonderful. The whole area is quite amazing and I've had a good time there.

I recommend you go to Eze, 20 minutes away from Nice. You have an amazing view overlooking the bay. Try La Chèvre d'Or over there.

Languedoc wine is trending very highly at the moment. One of the best I've tried at a very reasonable price is a Faugeres Domaine Leon Barral Cuvée Jadis.

[Formerly YB-2]

Unfortunately, my mother passed away last week, so we did not get to make this trip, so no report.

[jdandy]

Glenn.......Very sorry to hear of your mother's passing.