Sorry to be so long in updating you all on our adventures! Still no internet connection at the house sit in Thuir. At Domain Treloar today so here goes.
We have a car! Friends Herman and Riana have lent us a car to use for the rest of our stay in France. Seems strange to be able to take off exploring if the mood takes us. Our horizons have widened!
We visited Castelnou recently – a small medieval village just 5 kms away. Its colourful history dates back to 990. It is set on a large hill with lovely views off into the distance. Although close by the countryside is much hillier than around Thuir – we didn’t realize just how close we are to the foothills of the Pyrenees! The village has a small arched entrance – with a murder hole above to kill off any invaders. The streets are steep and narrow with open drains running down both sides to cope with storm water when it rains. There are lots of artist studios and small cafes to find as you explore the narrow streets. The Chateau sits above it all. A lovely day out.
We have also visited Spain again, this time with friends Colin and Barbara. They wanted to visit a cellar door called “Celler Oliveda” in the village of Capmany, not far over the border. They invited us to come along. David and Laura – a Scottish couple who spend half the year in France – buy quite a lot of wine there and had recommended it to Colin and Barbara. Anyway, while we were there quietly tasting the wines David and Laura arrived with their daughter-in-law to pick up some supplies. Everyone was sprung – can’t get away with anything! “Celler Oliveda” was well worth the visit. Lots of character, an interesting museum, and little side rooms tucked away. The Chardonnay Cava (bubbly) was the best wine we tasted. A bottle of red called Ulls Negres also made its way home with us. It was then off to lunch at “La Placa Restaurant” – in a nearby village but can’t remember it’s name. Great value – three courses for around 15 Euro. Next we drove to the coastal town of Cadaques, very famous for its link to the artist/surrealist Salvador Dali. We had been there before when we had the hire car back in May. The town was still as beautiful so happy to see it again.
Our social life has been active and very enjoyable. Lunch at Port Vendre with Carol and Brian last Saturday and a lovely meal after church on Sunday at Cafe des Artistes in Laroque-des-Alberes. Joined by Doug and Erika and Guy and Caroline. More food and wine though I’m the allocated driver so behaved – for a change!
Our time in France is going quickly – need to leave by late November. Looks like we are heading back to Cambridge! At least initially. Will see what else unfolds.
Lots of love
Di and Reg
This entry was posted in Europe, France, House Sits, Spain, Thuir, Pyrenees Orientales, Thuir, Pyrenees Orientales (1)
great to read more of your adventures. Cool photos. Praying that God will show you where to next.
LYL MYL Tarsh xxxx
Great to read the update sounds like you are having a wonderful time and meeting lots of new friends. Sounds like maybe Christmas in the UK eh. Winter, snow, Brrrrrrrr