Local Towns
Before visiting Villeneuve, climb up to the medieval village of Pujols to get a stunning overall view of this low lying Bastide, built in 1264 on both banks of the River Lot. Then enter the town itself through the North gate with its rose-red great tower and belfry and you’re straight into the gentle bustle of the Bastide streets, still as lively as they’ve been throughout the centuries.
Visit the four ranges of arcades squaring up to the central fountain in the Place Lafayette to feel the sense of permanence, of solidity and protection that the Bastide dwellers must have felt. Down by the river the houses seem to bury their foundations in the waters close by the Pont Vieux. This was originally the twin to Cahors’ three-towered Valentré Bridge, until the central pillar collapsed beneath the floodwaters, a fault of engineering that Richelieu rightly blamed on the English who built the bridge in the 13th century.
Villeneuve has a large pedestrian shopping area and many traditional bars and restaurants that make for a great evening out. A selection of supermarkets can also be found here and a traditional market is held in the main square every Saturday during the summer months.
Cahors is a town steeped in history; the town is divided into two sections contained within a large meander of the river Lot. Its most famous attraction in the medieval bridge Le Pont Valentré. Wander along the quayside and enjoy the spectacular displays of summer flowers. The Place Gambetta is a central meeting place from which you can enjoy meandering through the medieval streets looking at unique shops, arts and crafts, fashion and jewellery. The cathedral dominates the old town and is impressive with its flying buttresses and gargoyles. The indoor market offers a feast for all your senses and a place to buy local produce.
Famous for its distinctive red wines there are many vineyards that offer tours of their facilities and the river boasts many sightseeing river tours.
With museums, theatres, traditional town houses and numerous restaurants and bars, Agen is a lively town with something for everyone. Day cruises and canoes can be hired on the Canal de Midi which runs parallel with the vast waters of the River Garonne. You will see traditional barges and other craft moored in the canal basin, and enjoy some lovely river walks. Agen is a good place for shopping, a more mainstream range of shops line the main street, and the indoor market is well worth a visit. Agen isn't really a tourist town but is the commercial principle town of the Lot et Garonne.