The best fashion and gift stores Lectoure

Long abandoned, the castle of the Counts of Armagnac and the former hospital were invested by about thirty second-hand dealers in 2017. These historic places host stores with different universes: 1950s, baroque in the former chapel, period linens, vinyl records ... The basement galleries have been transformed into artist studios. Atypical place, the Village des Brocanteurs is worth a look and attracts thousands of visitors. The price is very high, so finding a good deal is a real challenge.

An elegant watchmaking house, the LIP brand was born in 1867. Founded by Emmanuel Lipmann, a 23-year-old watchmaker's son, the company began by opening a boutique in Besançon. Throughout his life, the man would continue to modernize his models and techniques, advances that would be carried on by his descendants. Over the course of its existence, the brand has marked important historical events, dressed great men - such as General De Gaulle - and evolved with the times. Elegantly designed and resolutely modern, the LIP watch has a well-deserved reputation as the brand of the world's greats. Today, the main production site is in Besançon, but the head office is based in Lectoure in the Gers.

Le Cochon Bleu feeds both the mind, with a careful selection of literary works, and the stomach, with simple lunchtime fare. At the table: Ginette-style duck breast, ricotta lasagne, country-style veal sauté... Novels, fine books, comics and children's books can be leafed through at any time while enjoying a coffee, tea or the inevitable "chocolat du Cochon". In fine weather, regulars often occupy the small trellised terrace. In winter, you can take refuge indoors, enjoying the warm, if somewhat cramped, surroundings.