Family of five in Caussi - July 2012

Highlights of our trip...

 We all loved walking right in Caussiniojouls, whether down to the mayorie and back or along the edges of the vineyards. Our kids were enchanted with the "secret passageways" - neighboring streets that wind around near the Chateau, and delighted in wandering around on their own, trying to get lost. 

 I loved exploring Pezenas (where we found some great gifts to bring home) and the drive there from Caussi was beautiful. On the way, we stopped at the Chateau de Cassan (photo of courtyard right), which we toured by following a treasure hunt guide made for kids. Also, in Pezenas, we discovered a sandy playground at the center of a beautiful, shady park - a treat for travel weary youngsters. 

 We swam at Serignan and Roquebrun. 

 We ate mussels, drank wine and talked with the British contingent in Caussi, at the village fete. I now know it will take more than a week to get my French back in working order, but our kids managed to play with the kids at the fete.

 Although we made it to the wonderful market in Bedarieux, we missed a couple others and I was glad to find wine, cheese, bread and croissants at the little store in nearby Faugeres, even as late at 7pm. There was also someone selling fruit across the street, next to the restaurant.

One day, my husband and I explored Faugeres on our own wandering up hill with no particular destination in mind. Near the top of the village we happened upon a little trail and hiked up until we came across a 16th century windmill, surrounded by spectacular countryside. There was a small sign at the bottom of the hike so if our French had been better, it might not have been such a lovely surprise - definitely a highlight of our trip.  

 We were so happy in the house, the village and the surrounding area, that we didn't even go to Carcasonne, as we had planned. Next time!

 Katherine