CAHORS

Cahors is famous for its rich dark red wine, first brought by the Romans, and made mainly from the Malbec grape. Like the wine, Cahors is a full-bodied Southern French town, the narrow streets protecting its inhabitants from the searing summer heat. Nowadays it's a place to relax over a coffee, a leisurely lunch, or to explore the market. When it's not market day there are still Les Halles which house some good vegetable stalls and traiteurs. The centre also has a good selection of individual shops; we particularly enjoyed the hat shop opposite the Halles.

The architecture deserves more than a scant look, as Cahors was an important trading centre during the 14th and 15th centuries, it has left us a wealth to enjoy: the cathedral, Saint Barthélémy church, and maison Henry IV, to mention a few. A little way from the centre and not to be missed is the 14th century pont Valentre which is still walked over by pilgrims on their way to Santiago today.