Carcassonne Beach

I know, I know, by posting up this picture you're all wondering where I am now. You'll no doubt be thinking I've sloped off somewhere exotic. Look at that gorgeous deep blue sparkling lake, clear water lapping gently at the soft sand surrounded by a Mediterranean forest of pines. This morning I was breakfasting gazing out at the morning sun hitting the tips of the Pyrenees slightly tinged with a pinkish blush. By lunchtime I was sitting having a picnic with His Lordship, a squidgy goats cheese spread over a crusty baguette. Of course were I to be on holiday which you know I most certainly am not then I daresay a glass of the local Languedoc wine pleasantly chilled would aid the digestion splendidly but being British we opted for a flask of tea. Carcassonne has its very own man made beach and lake, 18 hectres of water and a 5 kilometre ramble through shady paths. A rather seductive spot for a January lunch wouldn't you agree ?

I managed to hold onto the bottle of Bollinger until last Sunday lunchtime when we had cause for celebration, and very pleasant it was too sitting out on the terrace. After the first glass I was feeling euphoric and pleased with myself as though I had won the lottery even, although it has to be said that had I won it I would hardly be announcing it to all and sundry here would I ? I'd be nipping off to somewhere quietly, somewhere that offered culture, a variety of gastronomic experiences, an unspoilt landscape offering breathtaking views, or were I to be really energetic somewhere nearby the slopes for a spot of skiing which our guests did last week.

Last Minute France

Otherwise I'll just have to enjoy it all by myself and that seems so unfair.