Maggie: Castries hike, the final hike of 2013

Photo credits:  Maggie

Although a fair number of members turned out for our final hike of 2013 along the aqueduc in Castries on a gorgeous sunny day, we were almost outnumbered by friends who came along.  The more, the merrier, as the saying goes, and it certainly was a merry walk.



Also very instructive, thanks to Rosie's friend, who guided us along the ruins and explained what is being done (by volunteers) to restore them.  He mentioned that the aqueduc now belongs to the community of Castries, as does the château, so we are now waiting for a guided tour of the château as well, and perhaps an invitation to afternoon tea there, although it probably would not be as nice as the afternoon tea at Rosie's that followed our hike.

Too much talking or photo-oping while walking the aqueduc can be dangerous for one's health.  I was lucky not to have mis-stepped and fallen into the trough where some of the cover stones were missing.  (Laura was adept ....)

Editor:  That's some view (and this is a photo not a painting!)

Of particular interest (in my opinion) was the square building with the ancient water filter system inside.

The bent trees along the aqueduc near the end of the walk (just before the grapeless vineyards) were almost psychedelic. 

 

Happy holidays to all.  Looking forward to seeing you on the trails of l'Hérault in 2014.

     -m