In 1906, Thomas Edward Lawrence, had not yet become Lawrence of Arabia. The young Englishman, who had just turned 18, was fascinated by medieval history. Already driven by a tremendous adventurous spirit, he jumped on his bike and rode off to follow the footsteps of Richard the Lionheart, to discover French fortified castles. When he came across Bonaguil, he said the following: “A fortress so perfect it seems ridiculous to call it a ruin”.
Bonaguil Castle, located near Fumel, is exactly that, a perfect castle which showcases everything which the Middle Ages produced as far as architectural military innovations go. To reach the castle, the road weaves its way from Fumel through rolling countryside. And, there it stands proudly on its hill, overlooking its small village. Once on top of the hill, the whole military genius of its architects is unveiled through drawbridges, towers, an impressive dungeon, embrasures, etc. Everything that was anything back in the era is to be found here.
It goes without saying that this tried-and-true globetrotter’s passport is never far away. Laurent Cluchier tots up the marathons, but when he's back home in the Southwest he spends most of his time running after articles to write, after two 4,5cl of coffee, to be precise…..
