Uzan

I had a quiet walk today. And I got a delayed view. I had anticipated for a couple of years.

Stops along the way included Fichous-Riumayou where I visited l'église Saint-Girons, a church from the 12th century.

Later, I stopped at a gîte along the way I offered a lovely peach and pear tart sprinkled with chopped almonds.

I passed through another slightly, larger village, Larule. I saw a sign that advertised a the remnants of a monastery from the 10th century. The Abbaye Saint-Pierre de Larreule sits high on a hill surrounded by sycamore trees.

The interior is beautiful. A helpful parishioner stopped by and turned on the lights for me so that I could really appreciate the richness the Church had to offer.

I arrived at was on around 1 PM. This little town features another 12 century church, Église paroissiale Sainte-Quitterie. I had never heard of the Saint so I did some research while I was waiting. Saint Quiteria was a fifth century martyr who led resistance to the Roman empire.

Now I’m waiting for the 3 o’clock hour which is the traditional time when gîtes open the doors to we pilgrims.

My kind host today provided me with a special treat. I was her only client. She gave excellent service. When I put my clothes out to dry, she noticed that the sun had shifted and she moved my clothes so that they would take advantage of the sun.

We shared dinner together, starting with potage (a smooth soup made from carrots, leaks, and zucchini (all fresh from her garden) with potatoes blended for a creamy consistency. Next she served sliced tomatoes and red onions drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette. Next, we enjoyed crisped potatoes and carrots served with local sausage and finished the meal with a hard goat cheese.

As we were clearing the dishes, she pointed out that we could see the Pyrenees. I was at the foot of the Pyrenees two years ago. It was so foggy and rainy. We never saw the view. Susan and I joked that it was the prettiest view we never saw.

Well, my wait is over. My host pointed to the mountains, which I could clearly see in the distance. It was a very satisfying day, indeed.Læs mere