Mirepoix – day 5

We thought for sure we would be getting wet today as the forecast was pretty certain. We woke to grey sky and lots of wind (mortal enemy of cyclists the world over) but no rain. This part of France bordering the Pyrenees is famous for winds like the Mistral which in the winter blows for days on end and drives people mad. But not in summer… We headed out regardless after pumping the tires up a bit, and with the captain fully fueled on Cassoulet. Our destination was Mirepoix, one of the fortified cities associated with the battles between the catholic church and the cathars around 1200. Now it is a destination mainly noted for the beautiful central square which is encircled by 13th and 14th century houses which stand on very stout, and artfully carved, 700 year old oak columns and beams.
Off we rode with a gusty strong side wind which is difficult to deal with on a heavily loaded tandem which presents itself as a large sail. We also got to do a bit of climbing, going over 3 small passes on the way straight south headed in the direction of the Pyrenees. So it turns out the rain didn’t show and the sky cleared rewarding us with a clear view of the mountains with just a touch of snow remaining. A good ride for our second day out with some sore bits and pieces remaining from day one. I’d also like to make you aware the captain takes a lot of extra punishment being up front and in fact I am a bit of a mess. Sunburned face and arms, 6 or 7 peculiar insect bites, a swollen bee sting on my chest, and a friction blister caused by my deck shoes. Tara has none of these but as usual collects her daily chain ring impression on her left leg.
Other than the above we arrived in good shape and found a cafe to sit in the sun and watch the tourists and admire the square.
Tara had had enough of the local cuisine based largely on duck and goose fat so we dined on the universal food – pizza. We had an interesting experience with our waiter who thought he understood more English than he actually did, and us who thought our French was completely comprehensible. After the pizza I am sure I said I needed some desert, but a few  minutes later a cheese and ham crepe showed up. What could we do but eat it?

Entering Pyrenee country.

Whose is whose?

Extraordinary carving on the beam ends.