The village
Take a stroll round this lovely bastide to admire its characteristic square surrounded by arcades, its unusual market hall and its belfry in the shape of a pepper grinder. You can also still see traces of the old ramparts. Unfortunately the 13th century church was virtually destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War and the Religious Wars, and only a few of the original walls remain alongside an 18th century Gothic altar and some attractive modern stained glass windows. The current vault and steeple were built in the 20th century.
Shopping & Markets
Castillonnès has a good selection of amenities; restaurants and cafés, shops and a small supermarket. A weekly market is held on Tuesday.
Activities on offer
There are tennis courts to hire in Castillonnès, and a cinema which sometimes shows English-speaking films in the original language. The village of Lougratte, about 12km away has a lake where you can go swimming, hire pedalos, go fishing or canoeing. Open mid June to end August, you can also play table tennis or volleyball, or just relax and have a picnic by the lake
Places to visit
There are other bastides to see nearby, including Villeréal and Issigeac. And in Monflanquin, the ‘Musée des Bastides’ tells the history behind these fortified villages, why they were built, their social and political impact.
Also don’t miss the château of Monbazillac (16km) with its fine collection of 17th century furniture, and a museum of wine and its vineyards. There is the opportunity to taste the wonderful wines produced in the area at the château.
