The Area and Activities

THINGS TO DO – PLACES TO SEE

The beautiful, un-spoilt region of the Midi-Pyrénées lies in the heart of southwestern France. The river Lot runs through the middle of this region. Above its deep valleys perch impregnable castles and cliff-top towns such as Rocamadour. The region has hot summers and mild winters and with the river running through the valley, the area stays fertile and green all year round. Much of this wonderful region is still un-industrialised, but tourist and cultural activities are well developed, with many sports and leisure activities. There is plenty to see in the towns and villages of the region. The village of Bélaye has a wonderful view across the Lot valley, and the 15th century church is worth a visit to marvel at its construction.

There are many sign-posted hikes, which lead past sites of interest, including prehistoric dolmens. In the town of Bonaguil, there is a an impressive castle built between 1480 and 1520 by Bérenger de Roquefeuil, a powerful baron from the south of France. A perfect example of medieval fortification, this enchanting castle is now considered one of the most important legacies of feudal France. The town of Cahors is the capital of the Lot region, built on an isthmus with the river Lot flowing right around. It’s well worth a visit, even if only to see its wonderful bridge, the Pont Valentré. There are many shops and cafés here, as well as museums and art galleries and a remarkable collection of medieval houses belonging to the religious orders. There are many festivals, both indoor and outdoor, and the bustling market visits twice a week.

The whole village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is classified as a historic monument. Perched on a high cliff above the Lot with breathtaking views over the Lot valley, it is a flawless medieval town of old streets and beautiful houses, many of which once belonged to the nobility. Clinging to the cliffs of the Alzou canyon, the spectacular medieval village of Rocamadour offers many interesting things to see and do. Once an important Christian site, Rocamadour is still a waystation for people travelling the medieval pilgrimage route of Santiago de Compostela.

MUSEUMS

Henri Matin – Successful impressionist, lived in Bastide Vert - Cahors
The Resistance Museum - Cahors
Ingres Museum – Early 19th artist, great personal art collection too- Montauban
Josephine Baker – Her Chateau, Museum (with falconry shows) Nr Beynac on The Dordogne – Les Milandes
Zadkine (Russian Cubist/Expressionist sculptor) – Les Arques

ACTIVITIES

Horse riding – Cheval Blanc on route to Maroux – highly recommended, well kept enthusiastic horses and spectacular scenery
Kayaking – kayaks can be hired from Caix near Luzech 15 mins drive and there are many companies based on the Dordogne – 50mins drive
Bicycling – We have two new hybrid mountain bikes- with helmets, more can be rented from ‘Bike a Lot’ in Prayssac
Walking - There are many excellent walks in the area and a number of GR routes, guides and maps are available in the house
Swimming – We have a 15m x 6m gorgeous salt system/non chlorine pool – otherwise the lake at Catus has its own beach and is good for children and swimming, the river lot is clean and pleasant to swim in.
Bird watching – we have a fabulous pair of binoculars at the house and plenty of great birds and falcons to watch – even from the terrace. These include woodpeckers, peregrine falcon, red and black kite and hoopoe

EATING AND DRINKING

The local markets are an excellent source of the regions delicious produce.
Quercy is known throughout France and by gourmands all over the world for its specialties. These include Foie Gras, Cassolet, Magret du Carnard, prunes de Agen, and excellent goats cheeses (Rocamador).

There are number of excellent restaurants close by and a couple with Michelin * ratings.

REFERENCE BOOKS

Lonely Planet Southwest France (Lonely Planet Southwest France) (Paperback)
Blue Guide Southwest France, Third Edition (Blue Guide Southwest France) (Paperback) by Delia Gray-Durant
Dordogne and Southwest France (Eyewitness Travel Guides) (Turtleback) by DK Publishing
Dordogne and the Lot, 5th (Country & Regional Guides - Cadogan) (Paperback) by Dana Facaros, Michael Pauls
Families of the Vine: Seasons among the Winemakers of Southwest France (P.S.) (Paperback) – highly recommended for those interested in the wine growers of the valley by Michael S. Sanders
From Here, You Can't See Paris: Seasons of a French Village and Its Restaurant (Paperback) by Michael S. Sanders