St-Cirq-Lapopie

Poised on the edge of a cliff 330 feet up, sublime St-Cirq (pronounced "san-seer") looks as though it could slide right into the Lot River. Traversing steep paths and alleyways among flower-filled balconies, you'll realize it deserves its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Pretty boutiques, artisan workshops, and tempting eateries invite lingering. But if you feel energetic, the tourist office will direct you to the mostly ruined 13th-century château—it’s a stiff walk away along a path that starts near the Hôtel de Ville. Morning hikes in the misty gorges of the valley are beyond breathtaking.