Bretenoux
A bastide by the Cère
Founded in the 13th century by the Lord of Castelnau (see Castelnau-Bretenoux) as a bastide town, Bretenoux has retained its grid plan, its central square and some of its arcades.
Unlike some other bastides, this one has a pleasant, green riverside setting on the main road (D940) between St-Cèré and Souillac and provides an excellent base for exploring the area as well as some places of interest itself. The aforementioned main square, the place des Consuls complete with its old well and 15th century turreted house, is a good place to start.
Look out for the old painted Dubonnet advertisement on one of the walls of the square, now unfortunately beginning to fade but nevertheless an unfamiliar sight in this era of flashy advertising.
Don’t miss the nearby castle of Castelnau-Bretenoux just along the road to the Plus Beaux Villages of Loubressac and Autoire.