Castelnau de Montmiral

We've been pretty good about sticking to our goal of discovering the southwest of France since we moved here two years ago. This isn't really a challenge, though, since as a clinically compulsive traveler, any excuse to go somewhere suits me. And, let's be honest, Southwest France, flanked by the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, rubbing up against the Pyrenees and never too far from Provence, has breathtaking scenery, enriched by a rather violent and fascinating history.

Bref ! We took a day-trip to one of France's "most beautiful" villages (it's official, people), Castelnau de Montmiral. Situated atop a hill overlooking the city of Gaillac - home to one of my favorite appellations! - from the white stone, to the visible wood framing, to the sinuous alleys and hidden gardens, it reeks of Middle Ages southwestern French surveillance village. From the bastide, one can check to see if raiders are coming down the Vère, or advancing from the east during the 100 Years War.