3. Fanjeaux to Mirepoix

 It was forecast to be raining in Fanjeaux this morning but in fact it was a beautiful clear morning. We hit the road at around 7am and headed straight for the boulangerie, which we knew would be open. Alas, no coffee but we managed to get going anyway. 

It was a beautiful morning for walking and as soon as we crested the first hill, the Pyrenees came into view. At times, you could see the full range from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. And they’re getting closer!!

So far, our stages have been becoming progressively longer and more undulating, and thus more testing physically. At the end of today’s stage we’ll have walked about 67kms. 

Today was a stunning rural path on very minor roads or along bordering the edges of fields and woods.

Fancy that, an albino snail!

We passed through two villages and saw several others on surrounding hills but saw almost no people and no open coffee shops! It was a serene and peaceful Sunday, and deeply quiet. 

We enjoyed the baguette and goats cheese we brought with us in a shady hollow, but by mid-afternoon the temperature was climbing, as were the hills, and we were getting tired. What a welcome sight was this little dam for two huffing pilgrims half way up a hill! We couldn’t resist taking the plunge and the water was gorgeous - cool and refreshing. 

Tired legs and feet eased, we continued on the final 10km.

Mirepoix is an amazing ancient town, still largely built of timber. The central square and arcades are supported by massive old timber columns, and the shoots and houses above them are half-timbered Tudor looking buildings. 

We are once more in the communal gite and about to turn in for an early night. Tomorrow is an even longer and steeper stage, so we’re planning on an early start. Our bodies are still acclimatising to the daily walking but today really was stunning and we felt the privilege of being on the road. 

 👣👣