Explore the south of France, the Pyrenees and northern Spain
About this site
Based in the south of France for 25 years, I am an author who specialises in history, landscapes and gastronomy on both sides of the Pyrenees.
There are three main ways to explore my website: (i) use the interactive map (ii) browse the list of selected articles (iii) choose a topic.
Latest articles
-
In the morning, a beautiful view of the Pyrenees cloaked in snow. In the evening, my book, ‘The Pyrenees: A Human History’, becomes available for pre-order, even though the definitive text was only sent off for typesetting the previous day. If you are curious about how a book goes from an idea to a finished product, this post reveals all. READ MORE
-
The spoked-wheel fields of Montady are the result of a 13th-century project to transform a disease-ridden swamp into productive farmland: 400 hectares divided into 80 slices by 120 kilometres of drainage ditches. READ MORE
-
Marianne was not a real person. In 1792, she was dreamt up for a song, rather like Eleanor Rigby or Maggie May. Today in France, you will find her image on coins, postage stamps and government documents, and her bust is in most official buildings. READ MORE
From the archives
-
Discover a remote castle with splendid views and read the story of a rebellion against the last great king of the Visigoths. READ MORE
-
There are five Pics du Midi in the Pyrenees. The one from Bigorre is undoubtedly the easiest to reach, and it offers a combination of scientific interest and stunning views of the mountains. READ MORE
-
This village in the south of France is famous for transforming ewe’s milk into blue cheese worth €350 million a year. Commercial success has left its mark on Roquefort, but not in a way you would expect. An interview with the mayor explains why nearly all the dwellings in his commune are uninhabited. READ MORE
Agriculture
Architecture & construction
Art & culture
Curious tales & strange places
Gastronomic heritage
Industry & commerce
Military history
Prehistory
Religious affairs
Take a trip