The Lot, located in southwestern France and with Cahors as its capital, is the very symbol of a France where life is good and the countryside is gentle. You'll find few cities here, but rather villages, markets, hidden gems, even caves, and plenty of activities. In the north of the department flows the Dordogne River, along which there's nothing to be found for fun, discovery, learning, and enjoyment!
Welcome to our home, let's explore the paths of the Lot region together.
Discover historical sites 🏰
Explore the medieval city of Rocamadour
Rocamadour is a village unlike any other, a place that attracts and fascinates with its unique energy and the grandeur of a village perched on a cliffside. To discover all the corners of its heritage, park in one of the authorized car parks (free from the end of the All Saints' Day holidays to the beginning of the Easter holidays) and then walk directly down into the village.
Here you will discover the unique and somewhat mystical history of Rocamadour and its centuries of Catholic history.
Push open the chapel door and wander through the narrow streets. Be careful of the many steps in the town; a visit here is well worth the effort!
Between visits and a few walks, take a break to enjoy a delicious ice cream with walnut, lavender or goat's milk in the style of Rocamadour with a touch of honey.
💡 Good to know: Just a few kilometers away lies the Padirac Cave, one of the most visited natural sites in France! By taking the entrance steps (or the elevator for those who are afraid of heights), you will descend 103 meters underground.
Visit the 1001 castles of the valley
The Dordogne Valley is commonly known as the valley of 1001 castles, and for good reason: you won't be short of options during your stay. In a single day, travel back in time through the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and modern times.
- Castelnau-Bretenoux, the fortress: A medieval castle never besieged by invaders, Castelnau dominates the landscape for its protection. Its 360° panoramic tower and period furnishings make a visit unmissable.
- Montal, guardian of the Mona Lisa: In an elegant Renaissance style, Montal is a discreet château with irresistible charm. A trunk containing the Mona Lisa was kept in one of its rooms during the Second World War. Pillaged and abandoned, the château regained its splendor thanks to patrons at the end of the 19th century.
- La Pannonie, a journey through the centuries: Owned by Julie and Nicolas's family for several generations, this castle is quite unique. It comprises a medieval section with a vaulted kitchen and small windows, a stark contrast to the 18th-century rooms where sunlight streams through large windows. Its grounds are a Natura 2000 protected site.
- The Towers of Saint-Laurent, resisting the assaults: The towers are now a tapestry museum in homage to its last occupant: Jean Lurçat. Like its owner, it was a place of resistance during wartime.
Explore the listed villages
💡 Did you know?
The "Most Beautiful Villages of France" was created in the Dordogne Valley in Corrèze, in Collonges-la-Rouge, by Mr. Ceyrac. Inspired by the picturesque alleyways, centuries-old stones, and charm of our villages, this label was created in 1982.
Here are the listed villages of the Lot region to discover:
- Martel: from a town of celebration and music to local gastronomy, Martel offers everything we love about a village with its market, restaurants, walnut oil mill and dances under the market hall.
- Carennac: right on the riverbank and accessible from your canoe, what view could be more beautiful than that of Carennac unfolding before you? Entering the cloister, the Entombment of Christ is breathtaking, and Calypso Island, as you paddle back down to the river, is enchanting. More information on a canoe trip to the foot of Carennac.
- Rocamadour: already mentioned in this article, it's the valley's unmissable highlight. This village will surprise you more than you expect. For example, remember to look up to discover Durandal's sword and relive the legend…
- Autoire: a small, hidden village with a magnificent waterfall accessible after a short, easy walk. Be careful, the path can be slippery after rain. For those who are curious, continue on to the Château des Anglais (English Castle), built into the cliffside and barely more than 1 meter wide.
- Loubressac: it is in Loubressac that you can observe the Three Valleys, those of the Dordogne, the Cère and the Bave. Neighboring Autoire, put on your walking shoes and wander from one village to another.
Enjoying nature 🌿
The Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park and hiking trails
The regional natural park is also a UNESCO Global Geopark. Indeed, its exceptional geology is internationally recognized ! The park is the ideal playground for hiking enthusiasts, caving enthusiasts, and astronomy lovers alike…
Worth trying ✨: The Quercy Black Triangle, one of the clearest skies in Europe for stargazing, is located in the park . You can count over 5,000 stars visible to the naked eye, compared to around fifty in the city. Impressive, isn't it? Stargazing outings are organized there, notably with Astronomade and Anima'ciel.
Outside the park, there are also many outdoor activities. These include cycling, caving, climbing, and canoeing.
A timeless visit to caves and chasms
Although the Padirac Cave, a few minutes from Rocamadour, is the most famous and most touristy in the region, there are other equally impressive caves.
Here are our two favorite caves:
- The Presque Caves : discovered in 1825, today Maurice guides you among the draperies and stalagmites to discover these caves sculpted by time. Their added bonus? The site is Qualidog certified, allowing you the unique experience of visiting with your dog! Check their website for the calendar of events such as Easter egg hunts, candlelight dinners, and lantern tours.
- The Lacave Caves : your underground adventure begins on rails with a 500m train ride that takes you to the center of the cliff for the start of your visit. Discover how 150 million years of erosion and water droplets have created such an artistic cavern. Their special feature? A 2000m² chamber under black light reveals phosphorescent concretions. Check their website for the events calendar, including picnics featuring local products, concerts, exhibitions, and themed activities.
Enjoy the local specialties 🍓
Discover the agricultural products of the Lot region
Do you like to eat well? So do we! And what we can tell you is that if there's one place where you'll eat well, it's at our place!
From classic duck products such as confit, magret or foie gras, to walnuts and their oil, the Lot also offers more atypical products and true culinary works of art.
Unusual find 💡: Lavender from the Quercy region, particularly in Martel and Rocamadour, thanks to the Alix farm. Completely wiped out by a disease affecting production, lavender is gradually reclaiming its place in our landscapes. At the Alix farm, discover fields of lavender (flowering in June) and thyme (flowering in late April/early May). Their shop offers 100% natural, 100% locally grown products. It's truly our favorite!
Are you with family or friends? Try their outdoor Escape Game in the middle of the hamlet of Alix, a fun and immersive experience guaranteed!
The Lot and Dordogne Valley regions are also the birthplace of wines like Vin de Glanes and 1001 Pierres. In spring, enjoy some asparagus.
Are you also visiting the surrounding area? Near the Lot Valley , discover Cahors wine or Quercy melons. In southern Corrèze, in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, you can also taste strawberries during the strawberry festival in May.
Enjoy the goat cheese
Here we have a little cheese that drives everyone crazy! Its name? Rocamadour! A Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), it must meet a number of criteria to use its name. Without PDO status, or locally, it's commonly called "cabécou."
Want to discover how it's made? Head to La Borie D'Imbert , which offers free tours. You can see the goats, the milking at the end of the day, and the cheesemaking in the morning. Cheeses and meats are available for purchase at the shop. Even better? Pack your own picnic basket and enjoy it in the garden.
In summer, you can also follow the goats as they graze in the surrounding fields.
The week's market schedule not to be missed
