: Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is one of the most beautiful villages in France, perched on a cliff high above the Lot River. This medieval village of cobblestone streets, stone and timber houses, and artisan workshops is crowned by the ruins of a 13th-century château. The surrealist André Breton lived here.

There is no railway station. The nearest stations are Cahors (25 km) and Figeac (30 km). By car, the D40 road winds along the Lot valley.

The village is entirely pedestrian within its medieval walls. Parking at the edge. The Lot valley requires a car.

The village itself — perfectly preserved medieval streets, the Place de la Mairie with covered market, the 13th-century church, the château ruins with panoramic views over the Lot.

Hike down to the Lot River for canoe rentals. Walk the cliff-edge trails. Visit the many artisan workshops (potters, woodcarvers, painters).

Restaurants with spectacular cliff-edge terraces. Lot-region cuisine: foie gras, confit de canard, truffle omelettes, walnut salads.

Cahors Malbec wines. Walnut liqueur. Pastis. Sunset views from the upper village.

Atmospheric hotels and B&Bs within the medieval village. Chambres d'hôtes in the valley.

Artisanal crafts from resident artists: pottery, paintings, woodwork, glass. Cahors wine, Rocamadour cheese, walnut products, truffles.

Cahors (25 km). Gouffre de Padirac. Rocamadour. Pech Merle prehistoric caves. Conques, Figeac.