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Bastide towns are medieval fortified towns usually laid out in a geometric design and quite often have a welcoming central square where you can enjoy a coffee, maybe a meal or if you're lucky shop at a market or experience a special event. Steeped in history and a photographers paradise these towns are great to visit and are a lovely way to spend a day.  Below are a few of the Bastide towns that are easily reachable from House on the Hill.

Eymet,Dordogne

EYMET

Founded in 1270, Eymet is a medieval Bastide town with a now very cosmopolitan feel, hosting numerous shops and restaurants centred around a central square. Expect to see half timbered houses, and gothic buildings leading down atmospheric lanes leading from the square and down to the old Quay. On a Thursday a produce market can be visited from early spring and an atmospheric night market in the summer months is not to be missed where you can enjoy food and entertainment late into the evening. All this whilst being only 15 minutes from House on the Hill.

ISSIGEAC

Issigeacs Sunday market in the summer months is a very social affair, and you can be sure will be bustling with locals and visitors alike drawn to its fantastic atmosphere and great shopping. Issigeac itself is another medieval fortified town that  is overflowing with history and great architecture which many artists and craftspeople have chosen to make their home.

Issigeac has a wealth of events particularly through the summer months so its always worth checking whats on and when. Issigeac is only 25 minutes from House on the Hill.

MONPAZIER

Awarded as a "Beaux Village" meaning its one of the most beautiful villages in France, Monpazier has influenced many of the other bastide towns and has had a Thursday market that has existed for nearly 700 years. This history will be reflected in the architecture and you can be sure to find something of interest for everyone be it shops, restaurants or the local arts, crafts and food producers. Located 40 minutes from House on the Hill.

VILLEREAL

The Royal bastide town and another "Beaux Village"  founded in 1267, Villereal is a typical "new town" built in the middle ages! - Expect to see timber framed houses and gilded stone buildings. See the superb arcaded square and 14th century covered market that hosts a market in Saturday mornings. Check out the Grand Bodega in late July and a whole host of other events. 25 minutes from House on the Hill.

MONFLAQUIN

The "Bastide on the Hill" and a further "Beaux Village" - built in the medieval period as a fortified town for the French in a time when the English ruled most of this area. Watch out for the annual "Medieval days" when the town is taken over by people in historic costumes and various activities are held. Another great town to wander and take in the atmosphere. 35 minutes from House on the Hill.
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