June 1, driving to Carcassonne

Just as we were packing the car this morning, I noticed this behind the peony bushes:





I learned that the poultry is guineafowl. O-kay.

To get to Montreal, we decided to make our lives easier and we opt for a, somewhat longer route along highways. It's nice and cool. The wind is coldish and very strong.

We made it very early to the Domaine de la petite tour (Small Tower Estate), our B&B for hree nights, and our room was not ready. We toured the place, a kitchen, dining room and living room are available to us. Dishes and utensils are supplied too.

The Domaine is an old farm, a large property owners have not finished renovating. There are fifty-four pieces, says one of the owners, the host’s father. The view is absolutely spectacular, that's why they chose the site. They are thinking of adding an orchard and already have vines, besides operating the B&B. everything they put in so far is first rate: re-plastering the facade, tiles in the main entrance, rooms and bathrooms, etc.

Oh-oh, what about my internet access... I check, my fears were groundless. It will be fine.

Today, it’s Intermarché (a large chain food store) gastronomy. Ready-to-eat salads, sandwiches, cream desserts, rosé and sparkling water. Plain but good eating to get our stomachs and our tummies back on track. We are allowed to use the kitchen with dishwasher, stove, microwave and fridge. Not that I intend to start cooking when travelling but it’ll be nice to be able to warm up a few things.

In the afternoon, we leave for Carcassonne. I set the GPS to lead us to the castle.

Disappointment. The weather is still too cold, still windy, the sky is very gray and there seems to be scores of drivers who feel they’re training for some hunt-to-kill car contest. I set foot on a pedestrian crossing, a charming driver rushes at me and makes rude signs as I pass. To crown it, it starts to rain as we head, on foot, towards the bridge. Enough is enough. Back to the room. Resting a bit will be good.