sssteve

During the trip we are planning to SW France next spring (Bordeaux, Dordogne, Lot, Toulouse), we want to drive from Albi to Carcassone. I see that the shortest route goes through the Montagne Noire, which looks like it should be a very scenic drive. Is this the best route to take from Albi to Carcassone? Any advice on towns to visit?

I should add that on this particular day, we won't be in any particular hurry.

Thanks in advance...

StCirq

Actually, that would be my least favorite route, mainly because I have a visceral loathing of Mazamet, even though Castres is a very interesting town. I would skirt the area entirely, and drive from Albi to Gaillac (major wine town), then to Graulhet and Lavaur, then Puylaurens, then Ravel, then stop at the lake at St-Férréol, then to Castelnaudary (where you should partake of some cassoulet), or even do the side-leg to Villefranche-de-Lauragais, then the Castelnaudary.

The Montagne Noir is just what it sounds like - a dark forest. And Mazamet is a blight.

sssteve

You sound like you underwent some terrible experience in Mazamet!

I will definitely check out the route you've suggested.

StCirq

Mazamet's a truly hideous town to begin with, but I think it was the roving gangs of young men throwing condoms at passersby that really turned me against it.

ira

Hi SS,

Take St. Cirq's advice. We followed her route from Carcassone to Albi. Very pleasant.

In Carcassone, we stayed at http://www.lemontmorency.com/#/en/intro/

We thought it a very, very good hotel, but that could have been because it was in the upper 90's that day and the hotel has AC.

sssteve

Thanks Ira but we won't be staying overnight in Carcassone.

StCirc, your route looks good. We'll probably use it. Do you suggest we stop in Revel? Do you have a recommendation for a good cassoulet restaurant for lunch in Castelnaudary, because we'll probably get there just in time for lunch (unless we like the wine in Gaillac too much).