On our last full day we made our way back up to the guard tower. We continued clearing the area of brush, roots and billions of rocks. Then Pascal let a group of us (myself, Heather, Jeff, and Jennifer) start constructing a drystone wall along the side of a hill we had previously cleared out. It was not as easy as it looked, sort of like putting together a 3D puzzle. Each piece had to fit in harmony with the other pieces, and the surface of the wall had to stay relatively flat as work progressed. There was a lot of trial and error as we slowly made progress, with plenty of supervision by Pascal, but it was a very satisfying feeling to be able to build something that will hopefully last well into the future. Finally, it was time to make our way back down the hill to La Sabranenque.

After a little free time to freshen up (not that we needed it), Pascal took a group of us on a tour of the castle. We made our way up the hill past the guard tower to the medieval castle, which had previously been restored by La Sabranenque. Originally a chapel was built upon the hill around the 11th century, then the castle was later built around the chapel. It made for an excellant defensive position.

Pascal was an excellant tour guide, explaining all about the restoration project and how it was completed. The views from the castle were just exceptional, countryside on one side and the town of St. Victor la Coste on the other side. Then we made on way down the hill for the last time, at least on this trip.

Before dinner we went for a wine tasting at the local winery in town. This is were Pascal filled up the wine jug each day for that nights dinner. And as we all can atest, it was an excellant table wine. The local proprietor, M. Arvieux, gave a nice presentation and let us taste until our hearts content. The wines were very good but the orange aperitif was a little sweet for my taste.

That night we enjoyed our last meal, and the chefs (Estelle, Yamina, and Sara) made an excellant layered pear cake for desert. We all reminisced about the good times we shared, and that we would definetely come back if given the chance. The next morning we all said our goodbyes in the pouring rain. It was indeed an experience to always remember.

Click on icons for larger picture and caption.

Web design by Mike Fitterer