In the Midi-Pyrenees

I seem to be spending a lot of time apologising for not commenting on blogs. I haven't been at the computer much, so I won't be offended if you don't comment on mine! But I hope you enjoy these fleeting shots of SW France - it's so pretty... though internet access is not of the best.

These round French turrets (this one is in Villefranche de Rouergue) always remind me of old illustrations of fairytales, (or, let's face it, Shrek).

The town's horsemeat shop was closed each time I passed. I am sure horsemeat is delicious and this is obviously the finest, and yet... and yet....

I admired the elegant stook of corn in the church, commemorating Harvest. I suppose once upon a time all the fields would be covered with these, but no doubt less artistic than this one, which looks as if it could have been created by a professional flower arranger. Lovely.

Not far away is Najac, a long thin village right on top of a ridge, with huge views over surrounding wooded hills. Couldn't you fly to the castle?

The houses of Najac are slightly ramshackle, all different. You can see the town fountain. When cycling in this area in summer, a few years ago, fountains like these become incredibly important, in fact we fantasised about them, toiling up the hills in the heat. Would just get in them, fully clothed. Not sure I could cycle in summer in Mediterranean countries now because my tolerance for heat has gone right off.

Most of the village is medieval with thick walls and small windows - not a bad idea in the late summer heat actually.

We walked down to old mill, way down in a valley.

And then had to climb all the way up again! Still, had a wander around first as there is a fast brown river hurtling by and it is always fun to stand and stare at a river, when there is nothing much else to do.