Follow the meandersof the river

Grandiose Lot Valley

The Lot, a river of calm waters, traces a course considered one of the most beautiful in France. The landscape is full of rhythm: remarkable panoramas, meanders and cliffs carry you away in a whirlwind of nature. From Capdenac-Le-Haut to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, passing through the villages of Cajarc and Faycelles and the castles of Larroque-Toirac and Montbrun, explore this rich valley where heritage, outdoor sports and local delicacies come together!

The fabulous story

water

The river has long been the department’s commercial link. Gabares transported wood, wine and the famous spice that made Cajarc famous until the 18th century: Quercy saffron. Today, it’s a tranquil river. It traces a 75 km navigable course, considered one of the most beautiful in France, upstream and downstream of Grand-Figeac.

Around the bend

Capdenac-Le-haut

Capdenac-le-Haut is one ofFrance’s most beautiful villages. This ancient Gallo-Roman fortress overlooks a meander in the Lot valley, and you can see Capdenac-Gare below. Visit the museum in the 14th-century square keep, find the curious Gallo-Roman fountain and relax in the Garden of the Five Senses.

Valley view

from Faycelles

Perched on a cliff, this 12th-century village overlooks the Lot valley. Visit and discover its heritage in a playful way with the Key Route. You’ll be charmed by the play of light and shadow in the medieval alleyways, and impressed by the imposing church. You’re likely to come across pilgrims, as Faycelles is on a UNESCO World Heritage-listed section of the GR65pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. And if you’re a nature enthusiast, take the hiking trails to the viewpoints and cliffs around the village.

Dive into history

of Larroque-Toirac

Clinging to the hillside, majestically overlooking the Lot valley, this enigmatic edifice promises an unusual visit for the whole family. The caves in the cliff behind the château are home to the remains of an ancient troglodytic dwelling: enough to arouse the curiosity and awaken the imagination of everyone. And don’t miss the incredible dovecote at the entrance to the village, worthy of a fairy tale!

Visit

Cajarc

This small village, nestled in a cirque of cliffs along the river, hides a magnificent historic center of picturesque houses. To experience the warmth of the place, take a stroll around the market on Saturday afternoons, then enjoy a drink in the heart of the village. The river’s 2.5 km of navigable waters are ideal for water-skiing, jet skiing, paddling, canoeing and fishing. The peaceful banks of the Lot are ideal for easy, family-friendly walks. The Maison des Arts Georges et Claude Pompidou (Georges and Claude Pompidou Arts Centre ) is the perfect venue for a cultural visit to the village. And if you’re here in July, take part in the Africajarc Festival to discover the richness of African culture!