A beautiful day in Lagrasse

On this Saturday we set off about 9 for the town of Lagrasse..a little south of here. The first stop was an art store with almost everything we could wish for to use. I purchase a few pastels and a small sketch book and others bought materials they had missed or some they wanted to try. Then back in the vehicles for the trip to Lagrasse. Once we arrived Chris led us through the town to see what we should be painting and then back to the cafes for lunch. We ordered panninis and sandwiches which took way longer than Panera!!

I took off after lunch to wind my way toward the view to the abbey which we had found earlier. Eventually several of us placed ourselves to paint the view over the river to the abbey. I used pastels today but could only do an impressionistic version as the wind kept me from straight lines and details. It is amazing how strong the wind is
. I left the site a bit early to pack up my pastels and get to the meeting place on time. These streets are narrow and confusing but wonderful for artists. Surprisingly I find others at a cafe near our meeting site so stop for a bit of vin rouge.

Once we gather to put our gear in the van we walk to the abby for a tour. Fred is still painting away by the bridge and promises to meet us after the tour. It is an interesting tour of this Romanesque abbey then a walk back to the van. Inette meets us with the other car and we all pile in for the return to Limoux.

Our dinner is prepared by Isobel and is served in the courtyard. Petals of the wisteria must be swept up before installing the tables but they keep dropping throughout dinner. We are served salad, salmon, quiona couscous, cheeses and green beans in a glorious display. There is a music festival in the background and the courtyard is lovely. Now for the blog and a few photos from the day.