Mirepoix, France

If you are up for a little drive from Carcassonne, you can drop in on a village named Mirepoix less than an hour away. For those who like the idea of hanging out in the French countryside, it's a good spot.

Mirepoix became known in the fifth century, but had twin setbacks a few centuries later. A flood did a number on the place in the 12th century. Then in 1362, Jean Petit came in with his gang and ransacked it. Most of the town was destroyed by a fire.

There aren't a great many attractions in Mirepoix. A town square is surrounded by stores of all sorts, including some restaurants. The Place des Couverts was a fine spot for us to have a mid-day snack and watch the world go by. 

Got a few minutes to check out the area? This can help.