Meander through the enchanting Chartrons district that borders the Garonne River and join the locals in a friendly game of petanque. As you walk along, the guide will point out historical landmarks that may include the flourishing farmers’ market on the Quai des Chartrons on the river’s left bank. After stopping at a café for a beverage and to take in the carefree spirit of Chartrons, you will arrive at the neighborhood boules de petanque courts. Here under the shade trees, you will receive an introduction to the game. Similar to lawn bowling and Italian bocce, petanque is played outdoors with metal balls. In essence, the goal is to throw your balls closer to the object ball known as a cochonnet than your opponent’s balls. It is a game of strategy, accuracy and skill. Even so, novices can soon become reasonably adept at it, as you will discover while participating in a friendly game.