Explore the south of France, the Pyrenees and northern Spain

A smiling man wearing sunglasses, a helmet, and a colorful neck gaiter, standing outdoors in front of a metal structure and building, likely at a sporting event or outdoor activity.

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.

Cover image of the book 'Menu from the Midi' by Colin Duncan Taylor.

Cover image of the book 'Lauragais' by Colin Duncan Taylor.

Clickable map of locations covered in articles by Colin Duncan Taylor.

Latest articles

The renowned architect made extensive use of concrete in many of his constructions, from the Sagrada Familia cathedral to the Parc Güell. It is, then, particularly apt that he also played a role in building Catalonia’s first Portland cement factory. READ MORE
The first tourist bus crossed the Pyrenees in 1913. Ten years later, it brought Ernest Hemingway to Pamplona and the Cafe Iruña. A century after that, some residents had had enough. READ MORE
There are four parts to the story of Le Bibent, and together, they make it the most historically interesting cafe in Toulouse: outstanding architecture, catering innovation, political journalism and an assassination conspiracy. READ MORE

This week’s photo

Alquézar by night: the fortress/church glows on its mount, while the medieval town slumbers at its feet.

WHERE IS THIS FAIRYTALE TOWN? The very name of this quaint little town sounds Moorish, and indeed, Alquézar is thought to derive from the Arabic word for fortress. Around 1067, Alquézar was captured by the king of Aragon and a medieval Christian town developed. You will find it in the Spanish Pyrenees, north of Barbastro.