Weekends in Les Pyrénées Mountains and Medieval Carcassonne
Recently, I've been so grateful to visit some amazing sites over the weekends between my classes here in Toulouse, France. So firstly, allow me to transport you to a weekend of pure bliss in the heart of Les Pyrénées. Imagine scenic landscapes that would make any postcard jealous, a cozy haven that feels like a warm hug, and hospitality that makes you question if you've stumbled upon a real-life fairy tale. Well, that was my reality when I recently stayed at my study abroad host family's mountain home, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of magical!
Nestled among the majestic Pyrenean peaks (some of the best for skiing in Europe), my host family's mountain home was an amazing weekend getaway. It was just a short 1 hour and 15 minute ride and the scenery was so breathtaking. Three members of my host family and I drove together and stopped at a cute boulangerie towards the bottom of the mountains along the way for some baguettes and other bread for dinner. When we arrived in the afternoon, we lit a cozy fireplace, left to take a walk around the village, then returned to read books around the fireplace. I kept looking up at the panoramic mountain views from the windows. After dinner, we watched a movie (in French!) and drank some tea, which made for a fun and relaxing night.
I was able to sleep in, then went on a solo walk/hike around the village again, which didn't cease to amaze me. The weather was surprisingly warm so I was able to bask in the sun and snap some great photos. I returned just in time for a yummy lunch, then was able to video call and catch up with a friend from Dartmouth who's on campus. My host family was so kind, and I was so honored to be welcomed in their home, which had the imprints of wonderful memories from over the years. Les Pyrénées became my playground to meander and frolic around. I was so awe-struck that I now want to have a mountain home there at some point in the future.
Now let's journey to another weekend destination: the enchanting medieval city of Carcassonne, France. Picture this: cobblestone streets, ancient ramparts, and the echoes of centuries past. Some friends of mine in the study abroad cohort and I embarked on a weekend escapade there. We found a great Airbnb that was just steps away from the medieval Castle. After checking-in we walked around the city surrounding the castle. The ambiance was nothing short of magical, with stone walls and arches that whispered tales of another era.
The city's cobblestone streets beckoned us to explore, and each corner revealed a new architectural marvel that left us in awe. It was like walking through the pages of a history book but with the added thrill of being surrounded by my friends. We even signed up to take a guided tour the next morning, which was conducted completely in French. We were all happily surprised that we could understand the majority of the tour and loved our tour guide's energetic personality.
The meals we shared over the weekend were also amazing! One night, we made trips around different boulangeries, fromageries, and grocery stores to collect all the items we would need for a charcuterie board. We were all so proud of the display and what we could whip up. Before catching the train back to Toulouse, we tried traditional cassoulet for lunch. Cassoulet is a rich, slow-cooked stew of duck, sausage, and haricot beans originating in southern France. The train ride back was breathtaking as we passed the French countryside. It was an unforgettable adventure to Carcassonne – a timeless city that stole our hearts. I can't wait for more adventures around France!