Medieval village of Cadillac.
The sky was overcast so we decided to visit some of the small villages of this famous region.
Cadillac was originally designed by the English King’s representative in 1280. Over time this walled city enjoyed prosperity because of its location on the Garonne. Today we still see the basic elements of this original design, with the walled city, the central market square and some original houses that have survived over time.
A brocante marché was setup in front of Cadillac’s ramparts. A keen eye could pick out a bargain here - I fail to have a keen eye!
It was here at the market that we were reminded of one of the many ways the French carry their baguettes. This delightful Frenchman was browsing the market after his visit to the boulangerie!
After a coffee we drove on to St Croix-du-Mont, an elevated village above the Garonne. Here we were able to get an incredible panoramic view across the valley.
The view across the Garonne to the south has very few vineyards. Behind us here is nothing but vineyards.
Here at St Croix was a geological formation of fossilised oyster shells. These deposits, Huîtres Fossiles, were laid down 25 million years ago (so I was told!) when this area was underwater. It is this laying down of the sea shells that has made this area such a good place to grow grapes. 
St. Croix also had an interesting church, a Chateau and a great viewing area.
St Croix-du-Mont images.
A little further along the Garonne we stopped off at another medieval village, St Macaire. Some very interesting arcades and a wonderful mural in the Romanesque church. 
A walk around the village opened up other interesting shops.
Fine pottery figurines
From St Macaire we crossed the Garonne and stopped of at one of the locks on the Garonne Canal at Castets-en-Dorthe. Many French were also enjoying this very tranquil picnic area, and the music recital taking place. Being a designated aire de camping we decided to spend the evening here.
The loch at Castets-en-Dorthe. Great place to spend a day - and a night!
Aren't you two having fun!! I was interested to see that there is a town called Saint Macaire as there is a grape of that name and a single winery in Australia (Calabria in Griffith) produces a tasty red from it. We're off in 2 weeks. Cheers Larry and Kate
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