Cahors, France
Cahors Holiday Rental Cottages, Chalets and Apartments
Cahors is the capital of the Lot department in the Midi-Pyrénées region of south-western France. This pretty town is dramatically situated within an udder shaped twist in the river Lot. Today it is best known as the home of the famous AOC 'black' wine. Reputed since the Middle Ages, visit Cahors is a must for wine lovers!
All around Cahors are vineyards. A stay in Cahors holiday rental cottages at any time of the year means witnessing their change throughout the seasons. Wine from the Cahors appellation must be made from at least 70% Cot (also called Malbec, Mabeck, Auxerrois and Pressac) grape, with a maximum of 30% Merlot or Tannat grape varieties.
Today, when you rent a self-catering holiday home in Cahors you’ll be indulging in a popular tourist centre replete with its mediaeval quarter and the unique 14th century fortified Valentré bridge.
The Valentré Bridge is without a doubt the symbol of the town. Building began in 1308 and it took 70 years to complete. The legend associated with this bridge has an intricately developed plot, complex characters, and a surprising dénouement.
When you stay in self-catering accommodation in Cahors there is plenty to see and do. In July there is a Blues Festival and also an artificial beach, similar to that of Paris, on the banks of the river Lot – usually in place throughout July and August. For culture lovers don’t miss the Cathédrale Saint-Étienne, a national monument – it’s also the location of the weekly Saturday market. There is the charming Daurade quarter with: Maison Hérétié (14th–16th centuries), Maison Dolive (17th century), Maison du Bourreau (13th century) and the Arc de Diane, a relic of ancient Roman baths. Curiously the remains of an amphitheatre were discovered when the underground car park was excavated partially beneath, Boulevard Gambetta (the main street). The stone walls can be seen today and opened to the public in April 2009.
Travelling to your holiday rental cottage or chalet in Cahors, France; Bergerac is the nearest airport, and is a 1 ½ hour drive. Ryanair, Flybe and Jet2 offer year round direct services to and from the UK. Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne airport is now open and offers flights to and from the UK with Jet 2 and Cityjet. Do check for seasonal variations in the timetable. Cahors train station offers direct services to Paris Austerlitz train station. Journey time is 5 ½ hours. Driving from northern France’s ports is on average a 10 hour journey – without breaks. The A20 auto-route is extremely handy directly from Paris to Cahors.
Weather in Cahors is stunning – long hot dry summers, spring and autumn tend to be a milder version of summer. Winters are mild with temperatures rarely dipping below freezing.