MONTCUQ is a vibrant village of just over 1,000 people in the beautiful Vallée du Lot. It is situated 25 minutes drive south-west from the département capital, Cahors and just over one hour’s drive north-west from Toulouse International Airport, Blagnac.

This lively, ancient village with an 11th century tower is renowned for its bustling market held every Sunday morning where farmers bring their produce, bright table cloths blow in the breeze and the smell of wonderful herbs and cheeses fill the air. Delicious poulet roti BBQ'd over coals, fresh fish and seasonal fruit and vegetables, tiny cabercou cheese, are all there for your Sunday lunch.

The Lot has its own excellent AOC (appellation d’origine controllée), the famous Black Wines of Cahors. TRUFFLES are found in winter and you can arrange a tour to unravel the mystery. The regional specialities, foie gras and confit are produced by the locals and available at the farm gate and local markets. Other towns nearby have markets thoughout the week.

The village boasts some excellent cafés and restaurants - the friendly Café du Centre, a favourite watering hole for locals and visitors; opposite is the Café de France with its excellent local specialities, and on the edge of the village the charming one star Hotel du Parc with its shaded terrace. There are also wonderful butchers who prepare their own charcuterie and salads, an interesting French/English book shop, supermarket, pharmacy and doctor.

In summer you can swim at the unique local ‘beach’ on the lake just out of the village, and all year you can play pétanque (the French version of bocce), ride or walk or sit in the café and just relax.

The Montcuq Tourism Office provides some useful information on the village and its surrounds.