Around Louroca

What to visit

The Lot and the Quercy Blanc

Limestone plateaus, valleys and beautiful villages

The Lot draws its character from its causses (limestone plateaus) cut by the valleys of the Lot, the Dordogne and the Célé. It is dotted with major sites and beautiful villages such as Rocamadour, Cahors, Figeac and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Man and nature have left their mark in the Pech Merle cave and the Padirac chasm. On foot or by bike, the natural and authentic side of the Lot is fully revealed.

A land of excellent local produce and gastronomy, the Lot awakens the taste buds with truffle, foie gras, lamb, the Quercy melon or Cahors Malbec wine. (excerpt from the Vallées du Lot et Dordogne website)

The villages

Montcuq

The village of Montcuq is 10 minutes from Louroca. Its medieval tower rising above the village is a landmark for walkers heading to Compostela. You can visit its market, held on Sunday mornings. At other times, you can enjoy the peace of this Lot village while sipping a Cahors rosé or a Rapiette (Montcuq beer) on a terrace.

Lauzerte

The village of Lauzerte also stands on a rocky promontory. It is in Tarn-et-Garonne, on the border with the Lot. Its medieval heart has been restored with great care. From its various viewpoints you can look out over the valley it overlooks. It is labelled one of the « Plus Beaux Villages de France » (Most Beautiful Villages of France).

Cahors

Located on the River Lot, it is known for its wine and its Valentré Bridge. In the old town you will find old half-timbered houses. Its Saint-Étienne cathedral is one of its jewels. About 30 minutes from Louroca, you will find most of the big shop names, but also a multitude of small boutiques.

Saint-Cirq Lapopie

Also labelled one of the « Plus Beaux Villages de France », Saint-Cirq Lapopie clings to the cliff overlooking the Lot valley. Dotted with steep little streets, you just have to let yourself wander through the lanes and hidden gardens. You can park in one of the village's paid car parks before walking in.

Bélaye

15 minutes from Louroca, the little village of Bélaye offers a breathtaking panorama over the Lot valley. Every year the village comes alive with its cello festival, which has run for three decades. If you spend the afternoon there, you will find boules enthusiasts.

Activities

Water, trails and vineyards

Kayaking and canoeingThe Lot and the Célé can be paddled by canoe or kayak, for a day or over several days. Rental bases are set up around Cahors (Douelle, Luzech) and Saint-Cirq Lapopie (Bouziès, Cénevières). You must be able to swim 25 metres, and children are generally accepted from age 6.

HikingMarked trails run through the Quercy Blanc, between oak groves, cazelles (dry-stone huts) and hilltop villages. Montcuq and Lauzerte are on the Via Podiensis, the Way of St James.

CyclingQuiet roads for road cycling and mountain biking around Montcuq. In the Lot valley, the cycle route between Cahors and Saint-Cirq Lapopie runs along the river.

SwimmingLake Saint-Sernin, a few kilometres from Montcuq, offers supervised swimming in summer, picnic areas and fishing.

Cahors vineyardThe vineyard can be visited and tasted, around Malbec. The estates welcome visitors for tastings, preferably by appointment.

MarketsIn Montcuq, the big market takes place on Sunday mornings, all year round. In summer, a craft market is also held on Thursday mornings.

Opening hours and conditions should be checked with the tourist offices and the providers.

Book

An exceptional home awaits you in the Quercy Blanc.

Panoramic terrace, private pool, old stone and the Occitan way of life. Louroca is ready to welcome you.

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