Cahors, in a famous wine region, has some characterless modern buildings but also some interesting old ones. Opposite the station, this classic town hotel, run by the Marre family for nearly a century, was found 'totally enjoyable' by recent guests. A converted 19th-century mansion, it has 'wild stucco carvings' outside, and an Art Deco interior of rich woods, stained glass, furniture covered in primary colours. The emphasis is on the chandeliered, candlelit restaurant, Le Balandre, under chef Alexandre Marre. The vast cellar includes 70 Cahors wines. Front bedrooms are light, but hear traffic noise. 'Our slightly more expensive, large one at the top, with attic windows leading on to a private terrace, was quiet.' 'An excellent nightly stopover for driving from Barcelona to Paris. Nice staff, free parking on premises. Great bedroom, bathroom with tub. Very good breakfast, for France': it includes 'freshly pressed fruit juice, excellent croissants and jam, generous coffee.' (Michael Cunningham, and others).