Rossignols Locality
Discover the Charm of Occitanie, Southwest France
Rossignols, Art de Vivre is ideally situated in the picturesque village of Belvèze, in the Tarn-et-Garonne department, in the heart of Occitanie, South West France. This renowned region is famous for its historic villages, rolling green countryside, and authentic French lifestyle.
Our tranquil retreat is just 15–20 km from the Lot and Lot-et-Garonne departments, providing easy access to medieval villages, stunning natural landscapes, and a wealth of cultural heritage. After a day of exploring, guests can return to the peaceful comfort of Belvèze to relax and unwind.
Nearby, the beautiful Lot-et-Garonne area in Nouvelle-Aquitaine is known for its castles, bastides, and scenic river tourism. All these treasures are just a short drive from Rossignols, offering a variety of day trip options that showcase the best of southwest France.
We are fortunate to be located near many beautiful historic towns and picturesque villages in southwest France, several of which hold the prestigious Plus Beaux Villages de France status. These charming destinations offer visitors the perfect chance to explore the authentic French countryside, rich in culture, heritage, and stunning scenery.
Quercy Blanc Region
Unlike many rural French villages that close outside the busy summer months, our area benefits from being a year-round destination with a lively local community and full amenities throughout all seasons. This makes it ideal to visit anytime. Unlike nearby regions such as the Dordogne, which often become overcrowded and less comfortable in peak season, our beautiful corner of the Quercy Blanc remains a hidden gem, offering peaceful charm without the overbearing crowds. The Quercy Blanc region, including Montaigu-de-Quercy, is often considered to have a slightly drier and sunnier climate, benefiting from a reputed micro-climate that provides more sunshine and less rain and humidity compared to surrounding areas, including much of the Dordogne. This difference means the Quercy Blanc region can feel more pleasant, especially during the colder seasons, making it a particularly attractive place to explore and relax year-round.
Montaigu-de-Quercy: Our Nearest Town
6 km from Belvèze
Nestled in the heart of the Quercy Blanc, Montaigu-de-Quercy is a charming, year-round market town known for its authentic rural atmosphere and friendly community spirit. Set among gentle rolling hills, it offers a relaxed pace ideal for visitors seeking convenience without losing regional character. The town’s busy Saturday market is a highlight, bustling with local producers offering fresh seasonal produce, cheeses, and crafts.
Montaigu also features a supermarket that opens daily, petrol stations, a pharmacy, and other essential amenities, providing practical convenience for residents and visitors alike. Nearby is a popular leisure lake with sandy beaches and opportunities for swimming and water sports, making Montaigu a well-rounded destination for all seasons.
Nearby Small Cities Rich in Culture and Markets
The nearby small cities of Cahors, Agen, Montauban, Villeneuve-sur-Lot and Moissac offer a blend of cultural attractions, regular markets, and excellent dining experiences.
Cahors (45 minutes away) is world-famous for its medieval Pont Valentré bridge, gourmet wine, and rich history set along the Lot River.
Agen (about an hour’s drive), renowned for its prunes and bustling weekly markets, showcases the lively spirit of the southwest.
Montauban (40 minutes) is a larger city famous for its pink brick architecture, historic squares, and vibrant museums.
Villeneuve-sur-Lot, a captivating 13th-century river bastide, boasts a well-preserved medieval centre with timber-framed houses and a popular Tuesday market. All within a 45 minute drive.
Moissac is celebrated for its stunning UNESCO-listed abbey, covered markets, and rich religious heritage, located about 45 minutes from here.
Larger Cities Within Easy Reach
For day trips or extended stays, the larger cities of Toulouse, Bergerac and Bordeaux are well within convenient reach—each with airports and renowned tourist offerings.
Toulouse, the bustling regional capital, lies 90 minutes away and offers a fascinating mix of historic architecture, aerospace heritage, and a vibrant cultural scene.
Bergerac (1 hour 45 minutes) enchants visitors with its Dordogne riverside setting, lively markets, and famous wine cellars.
Bordeaux (approximately 2.5 hours by car) is a world-renowned city for its grand architecture, gourmet food scene, and the surrounding prestigious vineyards.
Explore Historic Towns and Medieval Villages
Our curated summary highlights some of our favourite small towns and medieval villages to visit during your stay. All of these charming destinations are within easy reach by car, ranging from a quick 10-minute drive to approximately an hour, making it simple to explore the authentic French countryside rich in culture, history, and stunning scenery.
Montcuq-en-Quercy-Blanc
9 km from Belvèze
Montcuq‑en‑Quercy‑Blanc sits high on a limestone ridge surrounded by fields of lavender, sunflowers, and vineyards. This lively bastide village blends history and a warm welcome, with the 12th‑century Tower of the Counts of Toulouse overlooking winding medieval streets full of artisan studios, boutique shops, and charming antique cafes where visitors can relax and soak in the atmosphere.
A highlight is the independent Livres, Books & Company — a unique bookshop and café offering a large collection of French and English titles, organic teas, homemade cakes, and a cozy spot for book lovers and locals alike.
Every Sunday morning, Montcuq’s bustling market draws locals and tourists alike, showcasing organic produce, local cheeses, honey, and handmade crafts — one of the best in the Lot. In summer, the village comes alive with music festivals and open-air concerts, creating a vibrant cultural scene.
Nearby, Saint-Sernin Lake offers a Blue Flag beach ideal for family picnics, swimming, and water sports. The surrounding countryside bursts into colour in spring with wild orchids and in summer with sunflowers, making visits here a feast for both the eyes and the senses.
Lauzerte
11 km from Belvèze
One of France’s Plus Beaux Villages, Lauzerte is a beautifully preserved 12th-century bastide perched above the Quercy Blanc valley. Steep cobbled streets wind their way to the sun-drenched Place des Cornières, a charming square framed by arcades and limestone façades. The village is a popular stop on the Pilgrim Route to Santiago de Compostela (Chemin de Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle), adding a rich spiritual dimension to its historic streets.
Visitors will enjoy an arty, bohemian atmosphere brought to life by boutique galleries, craft workshops, and artisan markets — notably the vibrant pottery market held seasonally. Lauzerte hosts a weekly market on Saturday morning, plus the famed “Jeudis Gourmands”, weekly summer night markets filled with street food, wine, and live music under the stars.
Cultural entertainment thrives here: a local pub hosts live bands every Sunday night and open mic evenings, making music an integral part of village life. For family fun or group adventures, escape rooms and treasure hunts offer an engaging way to explore the village’s historic corners.
Seasonal highlights include the Flower Festival, the Ceramics Fair, and the open-air Quercinété Film Festival — all celebrating Lauzerte’s cultural heritage and lively community spirit.
Puy‑l’Évêque
25 km from Belvèze
Rising dramatically above a bend in the River Lot, Puy‑l’Évêque is one of the valley’s most scenic medieval villages and a charming gateway to the Cahors wine region. Once ruled by the Bishops of Cahors, the town’s golden‑stone houses and narrow lanes climb from the riverside quays to the 13th‑century Bishops’ Keep, the last remnant of the old episcopal palace.
Along the Rue des Tanneurs, signs of the village’s former trades—tanners, dyers, and winemakers—can still be seen. The Church of Saint‑Sauveur and the Chapel of the Blue Penitents add to the village’s architectural beauty, while shaded gardens and lookouts offer sweeping river views.
Puy‑l’Évêque is also renowned for its Tuesday market, riverside cafés, and summer events celebrating food, music, and wine. Visitors can enjoy boat trips, kayaking, and vineyard tours at nearby estates such as Château de Chambert. Combining medieval history, riverside charm, and renowned wines, it’s an excellent stop on any Lot Valley itinerary.
Tournon d’Agenais
11 km from Belvèze
Founded in 1271 by King Philip III of France, Tournon d’Agenais is a classic royal bastide with arcaded squares and striking stone architecture. Its clock tower, complete with lunar phases, dominates the main square, while the surrounding cobbled streets reveal traces of its turbulent past during the Hundred Years’ War.
The town’s Marché Gourmand Nocturne in summer transforms the square into a lively dining hall filled with music, local cheese, saffron specialities and regional wines. The views from the ramparts across the Agenais hills are magnificent — especially at sunset. There’s also a small museum exploring local resistance stories from World War II, adding a moving layer to the village’s heritage.
Beauville
17 km from Belvèze
Perched on a green ridge in the Lot‑et‑Garonne, Beauville captures the tranquil rhythm of rural southwest France. The village’s central square hosts a relaxed Saturday market and occasional summer brocantes, where locals sell antiques and handmade goods. The Church of Saint‑Jacques, with its elegant bell tower, and centuries-old stone façades recall Beauville’s medieval origins.
Surrounding trails invite gentle walks through orchards and valleys, while cyclists can follow shaded lanes to nearby lakes or vineyards. In August, the Beauville Arts Festival fills the square with concerts and theatre — a highlight of the local calendar for lovers of culture and authentic French ambiance.
Many events are organised here throughout the year by local residents, raising funds for various local charities and causes. Visitors are encouraged to check with the Beauville Tourist Information Office for the latest details on markets, festivals, and fundraising activities.
Penne d’Agenais
22 km from Belvèze
A jewel of the Lot Valley, Penne d’Agenais is instantly recognisable by the shining Byzantine domes of Notre-Dame-du-Peyragude, overlooking a maze of cobbled lanes and artisan studios. Perched on a hilltop, the village offers breathtaking panoramic viewpoints stretching across the Lot River and surrounding vineyards.
History lovers can explore the nearby caves adorned with ancient religious icons and a sacred fountain, adding a spiritual dimension to the visit. The village maintains its medieval atmosphere as a former fortress of Richard the Lionheart.
Visitors can enjoy bronze art galleries, boutique wineries, and workshops tucked beneath stone arches. The local glass blowing atelier, Verre Zé Bulles, offers captivating live demonstrations of traditional cane glass blowing and opportunities to purchase delicate handcrafted pieces.
Outdoor enthusiasts can take river cruises or cycle along scenic routes connecting Penne d’Agenais with neighbouring bastides. The village’s “Fête Médiévale” every August animates the streets with sword fights, period costumes, music, and medieval festivities, perfect for immersing in its historic charm.
Villeréal
35 km from Belvèze
Bustling yet timeless, Villeréal epitomises the southwest bastide spirit with its distinctive flat terrain, differing from many hilltop villages in the region. This royal bastide, founded in 1267 by Alphonse de Poitiers, sits in the gentle valley of the Dropt, surrounded by flourishing farmland and verdant hillsides.
The village exudes a welcoming Spanish and bohemian atmosphere, reflected in its architecture and vibrant cultural life. The immense 14th-century timber market hall, one of the largest of its kind, dominates the central square. This market hall remains the heart of the village’s famous Saturday morning market, which has been running continuously for over seven centuries, highlighting Villeréal’s status as a genuine working market town.
During summer months, Monday night markets come alive with live music, communal dining tables, and local wines, creating an inviting street-festival vibe. The village’s cultural calendar also includes the lively Bodega festival, traditional horse races, flea markets, and baroque music soirées, offering a rich program beyond the usual market days.
Visitors can admire the striking fortified Gothic church, with its crenellated parapet walk and defensive turrets. The village’s ramparts provide peaceful spots to take in panoramic views of the Dropt Valley. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate extensive equestrian trails and cycle routes linking Villeréal with other medieval towns dotted throughout the region.
Pujols-le-Haut
40 km from Belvèze
Classed as one of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France,” Pujols-le-Haut overlooks Villeneuve-sur-Lot, offering enchanting views across the Lot valley. The walled village’s narrow stone lanes, half-timbered houses, and flower-filled squares make it a favourite for photographers and visitors seeking authentic medieval charm.
Don’t miss the Sunday morning market, bustling with local producers selling honey, lavender, and Lot-et-Garonne wines, or explore the small art galleries clustered around Place Saint-Nicolas. History enthusiasts will appreciate the Church of Sainte-Foy, renowned for its remarkable 15th and 16th-century medieval frescoes depicting biblical scenes, saints, and the Tree of Jesse, enriching the village’s religious heritage.
Families and toy lovers will enjoy visiting the Rustic Toy House, a delightful museum featuring over 200 traditional toys that guests can see and try year-round. The village square also hosts several pleasant cafés and terraces, perfect for relaxing while soaking in the peaceful village atmosphere.
In summer, Pujols hosts artisan fairs and open-air concerts that beautifully combine art, gastronomy, and the relaxed sounds of cicadas, making for memorable cultural experiences.
Monflanquin
43 km from Belvèze
A masterpiece of medieval planning, Monflanquin ranks among the most beautiful bastide towns in France. Founded in 1256, it stands proudly above the Lot Valley with sweeping views and harmonious stone architecture. Place des Arcades, its geometric square, invites wanderers to cafés, artisan boutiques, and the fascinating Musée des Bastides, which explores medieval town life in the southwest.
Visitors can follow heritage trails, enjoy the weekly Thursday morning market, or join lively summer festivals that transform the village into a stage of medieval reenactments, music, and fireworks. In July and August, “Monflanquin en Fête” celebrates the bastide’s origins with processions, medieval banquets, and colourful parades.
Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
66 km from Belvèze
Carved dramatically into cliffs above the River Lot, Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie is often called one of France’s most beautiful and romantic villages, with a fairytale charm that enchants visitors. Its preserved medieval streets, artisan workshops, and flower-covered terraces have inspired countless artists, including André Breton, founder of surrealism.
Visitors can explore small museums, art boutiques, and panoramic walks along the Lot Valley Path overlooking the water. Early mornings and late afternoons offer perfect lighting for photography, while evenings bring open-air dining and quiet charm. The summer Festival de Musique fills ancient courtyards with classical and contemporary performances under the stars, a highlight for anyone exploring the Lot region.
As the only village mentioned with paid parking, Saint‑Cirq‑Lapopie can become quite busy during peak tourist seasons. Parking fees support the village’s upkeep and preservation. Some visitors may find the atmosphere in restaurants less intimate compared to smaller nearby villages, reflective of its popularity. Planning visits during quieter times or early in the day is recommended to enjoy the village’s beauty and hospitality fully.