River Lot Southwest France - Self Catering River Barging


River Lot Southwest France - Self Catering River Barging River Lot Southwest France - Self Catering River Barging
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Duration: 4, 2, 6, 7 Days

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River Lot, South West of France


The clear waters of the River Lot meander leisurely through wide valleys and steep gorges, beneath spectacular limestone cliffs and past cascading waterfalls. They take you on a memorable and unhurried voyage to ancient castles, medieval villages and historic châteaux. For many, this is river cruising at its best.

Cruising highlights include:

  • Spectacular natural scenery and an abundance of wildlife - don’t forget your binoculars!
  • Amazing prehistoric cave drawings at the Pech-Merle Caves
  • St-Cirq Lapopie - a delightful honey-coloured hilltop village famous for its artists and craftwork
  • Cahor’s 14th Century Pont Valentré, which has spanned the river for more than 700 years
  • Cahors wine and foie gras - regional specialities
  • Canal towpaths cut high into the limestone cliffs
  • Popular for watersports - hire canoes or kayaks for the day
  • Due to the sometimes strong river currents, we do not recommend this region if this is your first boating holiday.
  • Because the River Lot can occasionally flood, it may be necessary to transfer you to another suitable base.

From our base at Douelle you can cruise the River Lot in either direction and experience the delights of this wonderful waterway at your leisure.

Travel west to the pretty town of Luzech, situated in a huge loop of the river and dominated by the 13th century Chapelle de Notr -Dame-de-l’Île. The church is dedicated to the boatmen who once transported the local Cahors wines by barge to Bordeaux.

Heading east, the imposing 7th century castle at Mercuès towers over the river. Its famous restaurant is well worth visiting. Cruise on to the historic town of Cahors and pass under the town’s medieval masterpiece – the 14th century Valentré Bridge, a stunning structure with three towers. Enjoy a glass of Cahors wine or treat yourself to some delicious foie gras and truffles – specialities of the Quercy region! Further on at Arcambal you can stop for a refreshing glass of locally-brewed Bière d’Olt.

Cruise along the foot of the Bouzies cliffs en route to the 7th century stone village of St Cirq Lapopie perched high on the cliffs and one of the best-loved sights along the river. Spend some time in this delightful medieval village and discover its red roofed, timber-fronted, honey coloured houses dating from the 13th- 16th centuries. Famous for its crafsmen through the ages – the streets today still bear the names of the crafts once made there. Over the years, many artists have made this ancient village their home – inspired by its old-world charm, peacefulness and surrounding beauty.

For a different perspective on art you can cycle to the famous Pech-Merle caves close to the town of Cabrerets and marvel at the prehistoric drawings and remarkable stalagmites in this 2km long natural art gallery underground.

Since 2007 it has been possible to cruise as far as Larnagol as efforts to open up the Lot to navigation continue. This fortified village, once a centre for silkworm farming, dominates the river and is one of the most picturesque spots on the river. The nearby village and château at Calvignac are great for a final cycle ride before heading back to Douelle.

Lot Barging

Due to Seasonality, Number of persons per boat and length of stay various reasonable price options is available.
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** All Cruise prices are cruise only. Please note that departures are subject to both price modification and Terms and Conditions.

Tags: France, Wine Cruise, River Cruise, River barging, South of France, Douelle
 |  Ref: LBF007 | Terms & Conditions
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