Saturday evening I learned that SNCF (French railroad) was offering 1 euro tickets from Carcassonne to Collioure, a beautiful seaside artists colony about two hours away. I went last year about this time and really enjoyed it. As I haven’t been out touring since February given the pandemic, I decided to take advantage of it. So I spontaneously purchased my tickets and departed Carcassonne just after noon yesterday.
I wasn’t there too long, less than four hours. But it was enough to have a great lunch on the esplanade overlooking the beach and for a walk around the village and its tiny streets packed with the usual shops selling food, clothes and jewelry. I even had time to sit down on a bench and read my book enjoying the beautiful weather.
It was great to get out and see again this beautiful place, once enjoyed by artists Picasso and Matisse among others for its inspiration.
Only 14 miles to the Spanish border, it enjoys a great climate and visitors from both countries.
The fresh air must have done me a lot of good because when I came home, I had a video conference with my family then promptly went to bed sleeping 10 hours. It was a long but fulfilling day and felt great to have the freedom to get out and explore. If SNCF continues these promotional fares, this just might become a weekend ritual.
