Focus on the Lot Valley

The Dordogne, the Lot and the Tarn are sister rivers. Their streams give life to a beautiful region of France, where the towns have hardly spread beyond the limits of their ancient walls, and the countryside is untarnished. The stranger, looking at it, will cry, Now I know why they say ‘La Belle France’! To lovers of beauty, to lovers of history, this land has everything to offer. Let them come here, and beauty and history will fill their minds as water fills a spring.

Freda White — Three Rivers of France, 1953 - still apt today.

The Lot Valley is in the South West of France and is an area of outstanding natural beauty loved for its peace and tranquility. It is less explored than its famous neighbour the Dordogne Valley but really is just as beautiful and spectacular and not as busy. You will see tremendous scenery, and if you go walking in this countryside you will find lovely and varied footpaths and trails. The region is full of history, with wonderful old buildings and caves dating back to prehistoric times. Many medieval villages dot the area. The Lot and Cele valleys around this region are built around a limestone plateau cut by deep valleys and covered with orchids and small white oaks.

Towns and Villages
Tournon d'Agenais picturesque hill top town.
Puy l'Eveque - 'The Bishop's Well' don't miss the view from across the river. Some quaint 13th 14th & 15th century buildings 12th century tower.
Cahors - the famous Valentré bridge over the river Lot, tiny streets in the old part of the town, a fine cathedral, museum of the resistance, lively cafés, open air theatre. You can take a guided tour on the little train.
Penne D'Agenais with its fine Basilica.
St Cirq Lapopie - one of the most beautiful villages in France perched on a cliff on the side of the Lot, stunning views across the river, 12th century church, tiny shops and ancient houses.
Rocamadour The most famous site in the Lot, clinging to the cliff face, superb views, fascinating old town steeped in history, many interesting things to see

Some Lot Valley Holiday sites

Lot Valley Rentals
Nougayrede Bas

Or how about The Old Farmhouse of Goth ? which dates back to the 15th Century.

Or place yourself in the meadows and woodlands by the river Lot at Moulin de Lantouy which sounds like a beautiful retreat, active or not with wood burners, canoeing, fishing and chilling out.