The inside track The

The inside track The Medieval city is a living monument, in fact there are 50 residents, numerous shops and restaurants, hotels and yearround events. Some people bemoan the number of tourist shops in the old city but I didn’t think it was that bad. There were some fabulous shops as well, clothes, shoes and handbags and my local friends tell me they shop there. It’s not all tourist tat and lots of tourists love to be able to take home a souvenir or something for the kids. Wine and Dine in Carcassonne Old City You’ve got lots of choice and part of the fun is wandering round and looking at the décor and the menu but here are some of my favourites: Refined Dining: La Barbacane in the heart of the old city, classic dishes with a clever twist, gourmet food that’s not to be rushed. Place Auguste Pierre Pont. Comte Roger is recommended by the locals who go there for the fabulous terrace and the fabulous dishes. 14 Rue Saint-Louis Head to Place St Jean, the Restaurant le Saint Jean is considered one of the best places for the local speciality - Cassoulet Aperitifs at: Brasserie A Quatre Temps which is owned by 2 Star Michelin Chef Franck Putelat. There’s also an excellent bistronomic menu including a formule (set) menu at just 16 Euros for three courses. If you do want to eat here, book in advance if you can, this place is always popular, the locals love it. 2 Boulevard Barbès Hotel de la Cité – one of best hotels in Carcassonne, very elegant, ancient and has amazing views over the city from the private gardens. Sitting here, enjoyig a glass of locals favourite, rosé, as the sun sets over the castle is an experience that’s never forgotten.

Where to eat in Carcassonne just outside the citadel: Locals Love: Bloc G throngs with Carcassonne’s locals who love this place for its home cooked seasonal food like maman used to make. It’s not a huge menu, it’s seasonal and everything is cooked from fresh in the kitchen. The dishes are beautifully presented by the owner Sophie and her lovely team and the food is utterly scrumptious, if it’s on the menu, try the “tellines” starter, tiny, delicate shell fish in an olive oil, garlic and parsley sauce and truly delicious. I hardly ever eat bread but I couldn’t resist wiping the bowl, it was either that or lick it! renowned 2 Michelin Star chef Franck Putelat and mentioned Bloc G, he agreed, the food is fabulous. Bloc G is also a B&B and it’s just a few minutes’ walk up to the old city. Great spot – great value, great food and a lovely warm welcome. Chef Michel is much loved in these parts, I’m not surprised, the dishes are mouthwatering. I met with Carcassone's internationally