This is such a wonderful series....I 'found' you on your GDMBR videos and became hooked. Really like your format, presentation and ....well...everything. Thanks for bringing us along!!!
@@matryderadventures Yes, I'm sure it'll be quite a simple process. Just seeing Castelnaudary again 'in real life' is quite the thrill. I'll rewatch this video again later when builders outside have stopped drilling. Thanks Mat 😀👍
I'm very pleased that you cycled up and down the canal, stopping at the lock KEEPERS cottage to have intense diatribe with those ladybirds. Carcassonne is like a fairytale village from my distant memory, lovely architecture. Stunning drone footage again, of an area that is special to me. Thanks very much for that Mat 👍
Another great tour. What an interesting region. I can't even imagine the manpower it took to get all the stone on top of that mountain to build that fortress!
I am sure those poor bugglies were seeking privacy in your helmet! You mean man, exposing them😂. Fantastic informative video as always. I really enjoyed going on your adventures with you. No heart attacks, please. Think of the poor search party. Enjoy your travels😊Have lots of fun.
Awesome, as always! Great narration, and your understated humor is amazing! Your enthusiasm makes all the difference. Eagerly waiting for the next video. Take care
Some brilliant hikes on this one. So enjoy that kind of landscape, beautiful! You killed me with talking to the bugs, big chuckles. lol Another great episode, thanks for sharing. :) :)
Hi Mat that was very interesting and what an adventure you’ve a brave chap. I hope you don’t mind but I shall tell you that when I was 19 back in the 70s I travelled a similar route with 3 friends in a vw camper. We got as far as half way down Spain on our way to Morocco but we got nicked by the police for having no insurance and we ran out of money. We made it back to the Pyrenees where we did some Forestry work at Carccasone and then I worked in a ski station for 4 months. In the spring cycling through Andorra and down to southern Morocco. So thanks for reminding me how beautiful the Pyrenees are. Anyway ATB Matt 🍻
Hi. It sounds like you and your friends had an interesting time. Three of you on a VW!!!!! What a great story. I'll be back in the Pyrenees within the next few days.
This was brilliant once again, I had never heard of Catharism/Cathars/Catharismos? What a fascinating bit of history, and a really interesting view of the world no doubt shaped by the time in which they lived, and as you said one probably backed up by their experience in the end: a year under siege and then burned in a field by people telling you that your belief is wrong. Oh and who was really in the wrong in that situation with the bugs, them for giving into their reproductive urges, or the man who decided to decided to go gonzo with their intimate moment and put it on the internet! Tut tut.
Stumbled upon your content and love it, nice to get a UK perspective too as I'm an expat in Canada (not the pretty part!). Binge watched the entire GDMBR, even my wife watched some which is quite a deal. Truly inspirational stuff, we're the same age so it gives me more motivation to get out there,. I just got the same Kona Sutra too. Keep up the great work.
Watching your videos just makes me want to up and go to France with my bike hahaha. Great views at the top of those mountains, and yes always support the local wine regions with a bottle or two 😊
I've honestly been blown away by France. I've just made it back after being in Spain. It's such a nice place and the riding is exceptional. I may be supporting the local economy as I type this message 🤣
Amazing area of the country. Can highly recommend visiting Caunes du minervois, and eating at the L'Hotel D'Alibert. Incredible history, and Frederick is an amazing host. Been in the same family since the 14th century. The rest of the village is beautiful. There's also a climb, Pic du Nore, with a return through Villeneuve de minervois. have fun. Kia Kata from NZ
It's a shame as I'm heading back up to the UK via the west coast of France. I'll be coming back so will have a look then. Thanks for the recommendation 👍
Another great episode, thanks! I really enjoy your narration, your humor puts a smile on my face and the views and history are also engaging! So happy to have found your channel and for taking us along on your adventures! 👏🏻🤍😊🌟
Hi Ron. I hope so. It'll be more than 50 miles per day on the TransAm though. I am a little worried!! I bet you can't wait to get back out. I'm looking forward to your videos. Cheers.
I'd love to know which road you took into the Pyrenees so I can avid it. I have a 7.5 m motorhome, 3m high and wider than your van and I don't want to find myself accidentally on that road 😅We recently drove along twisty roads in the Doura valley in Portugal, but there were no tunnels. I could say the same of northern Scotland. Driving roads like this in large vehicle take lots of concentration, you can't relax for a moment. Plus you're always concerned about what's around the next bend.
I can't imagine trying to get a 7.5m van around those roads. It was nerve wracking enough in my 6m van. I honestly thought I was going to have to back up when I came to that low tunnel. It would have been at least half a mile. Terrifying. You're absolutely correct about the level of concentration. I arrived completely knackered after that journey.
What a great video Mat. France is an epic place to explore the way you’re doing it. I’m in Wales right now, just had a week in Mumbles and walks a few parts of the coastal path, spectacular. I even did some filming and chatting so I could send the videos to my friends in Canada and show them some of the Gower. I’ll need to up my camera skills though, and not care when people are around. 😀
Hi. France has been incredible. I hope you're enjoying Wales. It has some amazing scenery, if it doesn't rain (big if). I still don't like filming around people but am getting better at it..good luck.
Great video once again Mat. Thanks for sharing your adventures 😊 Can I ask, what app you use for planning your treks when you arrive in these beautiful spots? Many thanks 😊🚴
You're welcome, thanks for the videos Mat. I do what you do, bicycling different places in France and Italy. I always wondered what those funny looking trees were in the villages.
Nice, that’s my goal to travel with my gravel and mtb and bike pack. I’ve done some bikepacking overnighters locally here in the Canadian Rockies but would love to travel further. Thx Jay
Also, I actually let out an audible laugh sat on my own on the train when I read 'Fantastic spot for a heart attack', nicely done.
This is such a wonderful series....I 'found' you on your GDMBR videos and became hooked. Really like your format, presentation and ....well...everything. Thanks for bringing us along!!!
Excellent. That's always nice to hear
Cheers 👍
Never considered going to France but now it's entering my mind. Thanks for another great video!
France has been exceptional. I'd urge anyone to visit. Cheers 👍
Oh wow, the one I've been waiting for 😉😀
The drive by clip isn't in there. I'll figure out a way to send it to you. There are other shots of Castelnaudary.
@@matryderadventures
Yes, I'm sure it'll be quite a simple process. Just seeing Castelnaudary again 'in real life' is quite the thrill.
I'll rewatch this video again later when builders outside have stopped drilling.
Thanks Mat 😀👍
I'm very pleased that you cycled up and down the canal, stopping at the lock KEEPERS cottage to have intense diatribe with those ladybirds.
Carcassonne is like a fairytale village from my distant memory, lovely architecture.
Stunning drone footage again, of an area that is special to me.
Thanks very much for that Mat 👍
Ho Tony. Lock keepers sounds obvious.....now. I really enjoyed that whole area.
@@matryderadventures
Hi Mat.
I'm pleased that you liked the area, lovely isn't it 🙂
Love you videos. All the different places you go and the variation of trips and activities. Love your sense of humour.
Fantastic. It's always nice to get such nice feedback. Thanks for watching 👍
Another great tour. What an interesting region. I can't even imagine the manpower it took to get all the stone on top of that mountain to build that fortress!
It was a very impressive structure. I would love to have seen it intact.
I am sure those poor bugglies were seeking privacy in your helmet! You mean man, exposing them😂.
Fantastic informative video as always. I really enjoyed going on your adventures with you.
No heart attacks, please. Think of the poor search party.
Enjoy your travels😊Have lots of fun.
Awesome, as always! Great narration, and your understated humor is amazing! Your enthusiasm makes all the difference. Eagerly waiting for the next video. Take care
Thanks. I'm glad you liked it. The next video should be out soon. Thanks for watching 👍
Such a great place to explore. Enjoyed watching this episode man. Bravo 👏
Cheers 👍.
Some brilliant hikes on this one. So enjoy that kind of landscape, beautiful! You killed me with talking to the bugs, big chuckles. lol Another great episode, thanks for sharing. :) :)
Those poor bugs. I feel a bit guilty. I probably should have given them more respect!! Cheers 👍
Hi Mat that was very interesting and what an adventure you’ve a brave chap. I hope you don’t mind but I shall tell you that when I was 19 back in the 70s I travelled a similar route with 3 friends in a vw camper. We got as far as half way down Spain on our way to Morocco but we got nicked by the police for having no insurance and we ran out of money. We made it back to the Pyrenees where we did some Forestry work at Carccasone and then I worked in a ski station for 4 months. In the spring cycling through Andorra and down to southern Morocco. So thanks for reminding me how beautiful the Pyrenees are.
Anyway ATB Matt
🍻
Hi. It sounds like you and your friends had an interesting time. Three of you on a VW!!!!! What a great story. I'll be back in the Pyrenees within the next few days.
@@matryderadventures all the best Matt
This was brilliant once again, I had never heard of Catharism/Cathars/Catharismos? What a fascinating bit of history, and a really interesting view of the world no doubt shaped by the time in which they lived, and as you said one probably backed up by their experience in the end: a year under siege and then burned in a field by people telling you that your belief is wrong.
Oh and who was really in the wrong in that situation with the bugs, them for giving into their reproductive urges, or the man who decided to decided to go gonzo with their intimate moment and put it on the internet! Tut tut.
I've taken a long hard look at my behaviour concerning the bugs. I invaded their privacy. It probably won't be the last time either.
Stumbled upon your content and love it, nice to get a UK perspective too as I'm an expat in Canada (not the pretty part!). Binge watched the entire GDMBR, even my wife watched some which is quite a deal. Truly inspirational stuff, we're the same age so it gives me more motivation to get out there,. I just got the same Kona Sutra too. Keep up the great work.
Glad to hear you (and even your wife) like the content. The Kona is an amazing bike. I love mine. Cheers 👍
@@matryderadventures Its a beautiful bike Mat, looking forward to how it goes and any mods you make on your Trans Am. Keep rolling mate
Wonderful video - i too worry where the worst place for a heart attack is ! - l00ks great around there tho' thanks Gazza Winchester
Hi Gazza. We have to think about these things (I'm guessing you're over 50 like me).
@@matryderadventures yes approaching 60.although not mentally 😆
Watching your videos just makes me want to up and go to France with my bike hahaha. Great views at the top of those mountains, and yes always support the local wine regions with a bottle or two 😊
I've honestly been blown away by France. I've just made it back after being in Spain. It's such a nice place and the riding is exceptional. I may be supporting the local economy as I type this message 🤣
Amazing area of the country. Can highly recommend visiting Caunes du minervois, and eating at the L'Hotel D'Alibert. Incredible history, and Frederick is an amazing host. Been in the same family since the 14th century. The rest of the village is beautiful. There's also a climb, Pic du Nore, with a return through Villeneuve de minervois. have fun. Kia Kata from NZ
It's a shame as I'm heading back up to the UK via the west coast of France. I'll be coming back so will have a look then. Thanks for the recommendation 👍
Healthy glass of wine.
Healthy bottle of wine 😳😳
Another great episode, thanks! I really enjoy your narration, your humor puts a smile on my face and the views and history are also engaging! So happy to have found your channel and for taking us along on your adventures! 👏🏻🤍😊🌟
Thanks. Great feedback. Cheers 👍
Hi Mat another fantastic episode what an amazing adventure loving it!! 👍
Hi Pat. It's been amazing so far. I'm in Toledo at the moment and it's an incredible city. Cheers 👍
Man, 52 bike miles and a hike..you'll be ready for the TransAm. I guess I need to get off my arse for the GDMBR!
Hi Ron. I hope so. It'll be more than 50 miles per day on the TransAm though. I am a little worried!! I bet you can't wait to get back out. I'm looking forward to your videos. Cheers.
I'd love to know which road you took into the Pyrenees so I can avid it. I have a 7.5 m motorhome, 3m high and wider than your van and I don't want to find myself accidentally on that road 😅We recently drove along twisty roads in the Doura valley in Portugal, but there were no tunnels. I could say the same of northern Scotland. Driving roads like this in large vehicle take lots of concentration, you can't relax for a moment. Plus you're always concerned about what's around the next bend.
I can't imagine trying to get a 7.5m van around those roads. It was nerve wracking enough in my 6m van. I honestly thought I was going to have to back up when I came to that low tunnel. It would have been at least half a mile. Terrifying. You're absolutely correct about the level of concentration. I arrived completely knackered after that journey.
Great videos, you are making great relaxed style. What type of cycling helmet are you using would you recommend? Thanks.
Hi. Thanks. I have a Giro Source MIPS. It's the only MTB helmet I've ever had so my knowledge is limited, but I like it. Cheers 👍
What a great video Mat. France is an epic place to explore the way you’re doing it. I’m in Wales right now, just had a week in Mumbles and walks a few parts of the coastal path, spectacular. I even did some filming and chatting so I could send the videos to my friends in Canada and show them some of the Gower. I’ll need to up my camera skills though, and not care when people are around. 😀
Hi. France has been incredible. I hope you're enjoying Wales. It has some amazing scenery, if it doesn't rain (big if). I still don't like filming around people but am getting better at it..good luck.
The further west you go along the Pyrenees the more it looks like wales
I'll find out soon enough. I'm heading back up at the moment.
@@matryderadventures I enjoy the transition of culture and climate as you transition across this mountain range - enjoy 🍷
Just enjoyed this one with a nice grail of tea. Where is everyone? It’s like watching walking dead.
It is a bit. I am Negan. Why don't you come over. You.can be Glen.
Great video once again Mat. Thanks for sharing your adventures 😊 Can I ask, what app you use for planning your treks when you arrive in these beautiful spots?
Many thanks 😊🚴
Hi. I use Komoot. It always seems to find a good route. Ross will sometimes make a specific route for me too.
The French "pollarding" those trees in the villages: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pollarding
I just had a look at the link. Very interesting. Thanks for the information. Cheers👍
You're welcome, thanks for the videos Mat. I do what you do, bicycling different places in France and Italy. I always wondered what those funny looking trees were in the villages.
Matt was that a rental van or is it your van? Looks very nice, loving the vids. Thx Jay
That's my van. I hadn't had it long when that video came out. It's had a lot of use so far.
Nice, that’s my goal to travel with my gravel and mtb and bike pack. I’ve done some bikepacking overnighters locally here in the Canadian Rockies but would love to travel further. Thx Jay