Arzens to Montreal d’Aude

September 25: day 2 on the trail, a shorter route today because yesterday we were miserable and never found our rhythm. Only 7 km and we arrived by noon to Montreal. The trail was good and we had lots of trail markers. First glimpse of the Pyrenees today. We will be walking parallel not towards the mountains this time. Montreal d’Aude is the twin city to the Canadian city of Montreal although a much smaller town (pop 1900).  Stopped at first restaurant open for a cold drink then a coffee, so excited to find a place for coffee. We were there for a nice relax then headed up the hill to our B&B, la Belle Vie. Check in is at 4 and it was only 1 so we were hoping to drop off our packs so we could explore town weight free. Wendy phoned the number but had to leave a message so we wander on. We asked a neighbour about a restaurant that was close by and she sent her son (maybe 8yrs old) to escort us to the pizza shop and bar down the road. He was so cute and wanted to help us. He asked where we were from then talked all the way around the block to the restaurant. When we said Canada he asked if we had walked to France! Love it.

 First glimpse of pyrenees today

Wendy discussing how good is the pizza with our local guide.

When we were checking out the restaurant and the pizza place where our guide said the pizza was only so-so, Wendy’s phone rang and it was our hosts at “Belle Vie”, saying come now, sorry to miss your call earlier. Our little tour guide walked us back to the front door and introduced us to our hostess at our B&B. We were shown our lovely room with its own bathroom. This place also has a swimming pool and a great patio and here we are without our bathing suits.

From the church yard view point

We wandered around the town after our showers and a bit of down time. An incredible view from the church yard at the top of town.  we could see for miles and miles across the countryside. Went back to the bar and pizza shop for dinner – and guess what – no food on Monday and Tuesdays. Ok then! Plan B, down the street to the place we had had coffee earlier in the day. We ordered a la carte which was cheaper than full menu. Dinner of escalope de dinde (turkey breast) with the best potato frites we have had, sort of circular strips of deep fried potato and some well cooked zucchini. But the local red
wine was excellent, Corbières. The server explained that all wine they serve is of the region.

Dinner at Auberge du Dominicain