45BB

The first thing Joachim did was wave us over to an empty parking space right in front of 45BB and help us back into it, even holding up traffic so we could park. That's the kind of practical, down-to-earth help you get from him and Sadie. They're from New Zealand and Singapore, and you can't help liking them. They make you feel completely at ease and act as a local support team throughout your stay. Need to know where to eat or shop? Ask. They'll give clear directions and steer you toward the better option. I left a shirt at a previous B&B, and they arranged for Sadie to receive its express shipment, collect the postage, and pass that back to the other B&B. I also accidentally gave my day-tour guide the wrong Euro-bill and undertipped him. Sadie knew him and was able to get him the bill I'd meant to give. She said, "He's great!" There's soda and beer in the breakfast room for a cheap drink on the honor system. The rooms are spotless, with big comfortable beds and balconies overlooking the pool. We never got around to using the pool, since the location made the car unnecessary after that first night. Once you're outside 45BB, it's just a few steps to wherever you want to go around Carcassonne, which was the most pedestrian-friendly place we visited in France. 45BB sits at the southern edge of La Bastide St. Louis, the fortified "new" city, founded by King Louis IX in the mid-13th Century. Saint Michael of Carcassonne, covered in gargoyles, is almost directly across the boulevard. Walk three or four blocks to Place Carnot, the town square with restaurants and specialty shops. Turn right and go about three blocks for Brasserie a 4 Temps, or keep walking another 20 minutes or so to visit the magnificent Cité de Carcassonne. It's all right outside your door.

The whole place was clean and stylish, and both the room and bed were very comfortable. Breakfast was generous, and the hosts were great. My wife fell in love with their new puppy, who kept Juno on her toes. It's a lovely base for exploring Carcassone, and we'd definitely stay again.

It's easy to walk to both the old city and the new town from this peaceful place. The owners were warm and welcoming, the rooms were clean and tidy, and we really enjoyed the generous breakfast and the pool area. We had a lovely stay and can't think of a bad word to say :)

Sadie, Joachim and Juno made us feel welcome straight away, and they've thought of so many little things to make a stay comfortable and relaxing. The interiors are beautiful, the sheets crisp, and all the thoughtful touches give the place a luxury-hotel feel. It's one of the best places we've stayed in a long time. We're already looking forward to returning to Carcassonne. If you're thinking of booking, don't hesitate, you won't regret it.