St-Cirq-Lapopie

Perched on the edge of a cliff 330 feet up, the beautiful 13th-century village of St-Cirq (pronounced san-sare) looks as though it could slide right into the Lot River. Filled with artisans' workshops and not yet renovated à la Disney, the town has so many dramatic views you may end up spending several hours here. Traversing steep paths and alleyways among flower-filled balconies, you'll realize it deserves its description as one of the most beautiful villages in France. A mostly ruined 13th-century château can be reached by a stiff walk along the path that starts near the Hôtel de Ville. Stop by the tourist office (Pl. du Sombral. 05-65-31-29-06) in the center of town for information on other points of interest. Morning hikes in the misty gorges in the valley are beyond beautiful.