C'est Médiéval!

The other day I went to check out a medieval festival and a ruined castle near us. The drive was maybe less than 10 km from our village but I had never been anywhere near that area. Just goes to show how much exploring I still have to do in our region.

Castles and all things medieval are right down my street, so I didn't want to miss this opportunity near us. Alors, onwards my trusty steed!

The ruined castle was on a hilltop and the road there was narrow and winding. The last couple of kilometres of the road seemed to be a rather rough, so I left my car in the parking by the main road and started walking.
 And I walked and walked and walked. Until I saw a sign 'Château 1km'...merde! Sweating and digging little stones out of my sandals, I turned back, deciding to go and get the car after all. I'm sure there's another parking nearer the castle.
I had to drive very carefully because even the road had turned medieval, keeping up with the theme of the day. Inching on on a first gear and trying to avoid the potholes and the sharp stones sticking out of the ground, I finally reached the destination.

The castle was quite happily situated on a hilltop with amazing views in every direction. With this and that I was already late in arriving and the rough road episode made me even more so. Things were winding down at the festival but I didn't really mind; I don't like big crowds anyway.
The festival was held in order to raise funds to restore the ruined castle. And seeing the state of the castle, it was clear to me that they needed to hold several more festivals and also think of other ways to raise funds to repair it back to its former glory.

It's a shame but there is just too many castles in France to repair them all.

Nothing much but thistles and prickly bushes grow up here.

The dinner is served. You just have to make it yersel first!

I love these little cauldrons! I had one in Scotland one time. Made nettle soup in it!

Acting medieval makes one hungry.

I bet he is waiting for his dinner.

And there's the castle itself. Still handsome even if a bit rough round the edges.

These ladies were talking about herbs and other healing plants and how to use them.

Coin making, I suppose.

And a pair of tiny scales.

The views were really second to none.

Imagine how strong you had to be to wear and carry all that stuff AND wield a sword as well! Not to mention how hot you would be.

The future Robin Hoods in training. I wouldn't have minded trying archery myself but there was just too many kids on the way and I didn't want to wait. Time to get some apple pie and refreshments instead!

Yup, looks good that way too. Maybe these kind of things are more exciting when you're a child. Similar to when it's christmas and you're waiting for Santa Claus. Where has the magic gone? Why did I have to grow up? Sometimes I'd much rather be Peter Pan...
Anyway, I found a new place, enjoyed the amazing views and ate some really scrumptious apple pie!