La Demeure du Pressoir-La Maison des Chats

It's a long old drive from Southern Spain to the Eurotunnel, and as my Wife and I were sharing the driving for a change, we decided to stop just once approximately half way between. I guestimated the area and began to look for the usual chain overnight stays close to the motorway. Then I saw cats mentioned. I love cats, so it just goes to show what can influence a decision. Had a look at the website for the accommodation, read the reviews and decided. I sent a Facebook message the day before we travelled (I never was very organized) and fortunately the owner responded quickly, and had a room available for the three of us, It was very easy to find with sat nav. Parking on the road just outside was free and plentiful. The place has real character and atmosphere and feels like it has a story to tell. Beds were comfy. Plenty of hot water for shower and a bath to revive after a 600 mile drive. I had asked the owner, Michelle, for dinner recommendations and she pointed us to the most enjoyable place on the canal du midi, with a selection or restaurants and live music. A great atmosphere and excellent food. Beds were comfy. Heat was stifling as anyone in central Europe knows at the moment. Breakfast was served in the courtyard and the coffee and home made preserves did not disappoint. My daughter loved her hot chocolate. A sneaky slice or two of banana cake whilst sitting under the grape vines did the trick and set us up for the second arduous drive, that sadly skirted Paris and all the joys that holds with roadworks. Then on to the hugely delayed trains. Made me wish I'd stayed for longer at La Demeure Du Pressoir. Michelle (and the cats) made for a lovely break in our journey, and the fact that she spoke perfect English meant I didn't have to try and use my schoolboy French.