Castillonnes

Castillonnès is a medieval bastide town in the Lot-et-Garonne department, in south-west France's Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, founded in the 13th century. Its historic centre retains a covered arcaded square lined with timber-framed houses, characteristic of the bastide towns of south-western France. The town lies in the Pays de Serres area, close to the Dordogne border, not far from Bergerac and Villeneuve-sur-Lot. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills, orchards and vineyards, forms part of the Duras wine-growing area and lies near the Bergerac wine region, offering a rural setting ideal for walks and for sampling local produce, including the famous Agen prunes. A traditional market is held regularly on the main square, bringing life to the town. Castillonnès makes a convenient base for exploring neighbouring bastide towns and the characterful villages of Lot-et-Garonne and the Dordogne, combining architectural heritage, regional gastronomy and unspoilt farmland scenery. The region enjoys a mild Aquitaine climate, pleasant for much of the year and well suited to outdoor holidays.