The Occitan region was the birthplace of the troubadours, and of many of the social and political movements that brought some light into the Dark Ages. Along many of the highways, there are large signs saying that 'Vous etes dans le pays Cathare' – you are in the land of the Cathars – a religious movement implacably opposed to the medieval Roman Church and its excesses, and still reverently held in the regional memory.
We decide to save our visit to the Cite at Carcassonne until tomorrow, taking advantage of perfect weather to head into the Pyrenees and up to the fortress of Montsegur, where the Cathars made their last stand in the mid-13th century. The Grand Pyrenees are indeed Grand and very different from any mountains in the US. Pictures later will be worth 1,000 words (we hope – if they come out well).
I think Disney's been here.
Typical for so many towns in Southern France and in Italy the ancient Sycamores provide dense shade. There are signs warning that the trees lean into the road and to watch out. When a town needs a new road, they build another separate road instead of cutting these trees and make both roads two lane one ways in each direction. 
When you leave a town the name of the town has a red stripe to let you know you are no longer in that town. The 70 is the speed limit (Km of course).
It is so true that many things are closed in August and in the South of France many were still closed the beginning of September. Closed metal doors with signs saying "en Vacance" show they will not reopen until 6th Septembre. But there must be a Boulangerie open somewhere becasue everyone is carrying their petit loaf of French bread and/or chomping on a croissant on the way to work. 
There they are the Great Pyrenees mountains. Home of Sampson (Maria's dog). Our destination is out there somewhere. The drive continues to be beautiful through little towns no matter how small they all have a church. 
Looks like it'll be four lanes soon. 
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