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The countryside around Lasclottes is studded with medieval villages, many of them perched dramatically on hilltops with commanding views across the Lot Valley. Several are officially recognised as Plus Beaux Villages de France (Most Beautiful Villages in France). With narrow cobbled streets, ancient stone houses, and squares shaded by plane trees, they're a wonderful way to spend a morning or afternoon.
Penne d'Agenais
The closest hilltop village and one you'll likely visit many times during your stay. Penne d'Agenais is crowned by the striking Basilique Notre-Dame de Peyragude, visible for miles around, with panoramic views from the terrace stretching across the Lot Valley to the hills beyond.
The village itself is a delight to explore: narrow medieval streets wind steeply between stone houses, opening into small squares with cafés and artisan shops. There's a Thursday morning market, several restaurants with terrace dining, and a real sense of a living, working community rather than a tourist attraction.
Pujols Plus Beaux Villages de France
Officially one of the most beautiful villages in France, Pujols sits on a ridge overlooking Villeneuve-sur-Lot. The village is tiny — you can walk its length in ten minutes — but every corner is picturesque. Honey-coloured stone walls, flowering window boxes, and a 15th-century church with remarkable frescoes.
There are a handful of excellent restaurants in the village, including one with a terrace that offers spectacular sunset views across the valley. Worth timing an evening visit to catch the light.
Tournon-d'Agenais
A 13th-century bastide town perched on a promontory with views in every direction. Tournon has kept its original grid layout of narrow streets and a central covered market square. The iconic clock tower, built into the old town gate, is the village's most recognisable landmark.
Less visited than some of its neighbours, Tournon has a wonderfully quiet, authentic feel. There's a small museum of local history, a couple of cafés, and beautiful walks around the ramparts. The summer night market here is one of the best in the area.
Monflanquin Plus Beaux Villages de France
Another of France's officially most beautiful villages, Monflanquin is a classic bastide town founded in 1256 by Alphonse de Poitiers. The perfectly preserved central square is surrounded by stone arcades (couverts) that once sheltered market traders and still do today.
The Musée des Bastides tells the fascinating story of these planned medieval towns, unique to southwest France. Monflanquin also has a lively Thursday evening market in summer, excellent restaurants, and art galleries tucked into the narrow streets.
What Are Bastide Towns?
Bastides are planned medieval new towns, built mostly in the 13th century across southwest France. They were founded by both English and French lords, often competing for control of the region during the lead-up to the Hundred Years' War.
They share common features: a central market square (often with a covered hall), a grid street plan, fortified gates, and a church. The Lot-et-Garonne has one of the highest concentrations of bastides anywhere in France, making it a fascinating area for history lovers to explore.
Practical Information
Getting There
All these villages are an easy drive from Lasclottes along quiet country roads. Parking is usually free and located just outside the village walls. Wear comfortable shoes — the streets are steep and cobbled.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning for quiet streets and photos. Market days for atmosphere. Summer evenings for night markets and terrace dining. Each village has its own character at different times of day.
Combine Visits
Several villages can be combined in a half-day circuit. Try Penne d'Agenais in the morning, lunch at Pujols, and Tournon or Monflanquin in the afternoon.
Markets & Shops
Village shops tend to close for lunch (12:30–2:30pm). Many close on Mondays. Market days bring the most life — check individual village schedules.