Now I haven't really said much about Trausse Minervois where we are staying (our house is bottom right). It's off the beaten track but close to everything. It has an épicerie, a restaurant, a church, school and of course a medieval tower. The épicerie is the centre where everyone goes for fresh baguettes each morning, a coffee later in the day and maybe a glass or bottle of wine in the evening. Its the place to go to catch up with everyone.
At this time of year every village has a Bar à Vin (school fundraiser) or a fete of some description at least once a week. They are always great community events, with food, wine and music, We dropped into the Bar à Vin @ Trausse and caught up with Susan and Stuart. They've lived here for over 25 years and I think they're on their 6th house renovation!
There is a large expat community here with people from Britain, Canada, USA, and of course a large contingent of Aussies. The houses here are so cheap and the place is so friendly. As we stroll through the streets each morning everyone says "Bonjour" twice... once for Roger and once for me!
The house opposite to us came up for sale and so we had a look around ... very tempting. Have a look at what you get for €139,000!
Walking through the narrow, winding streets of Trausse is like stepping back through centuries. The village dates back to the 8th or 9th century and was once a fortified hamlet caught in the crosswinds of the historic Cathar region. Our house backs onto the remparts and we park our car next to the ancient tower.
I love the cheeky signs on the crossings next to the school warning people to drive slowly (Roulez doucement!) Oh and have a look at the car.... it's so hot so everyone leaves their car doors and boot open.
Of course the Minervois is a major wine growing area and the village is surrounded by a a landscape of rolling vineyards. Again wine growing is a community activity from the quiet winter pruning to the high
camaraderie of the late summer vendange (grape harvest).
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