The Lot is famous for its medieval villages, prehistoric caves, and natural landscapes. Cahors and Rocamadour are major tourist destinations.
The department of Lot, located in the Occitanie region in France, offers a multitude of tourist, gastronomic, and cultural activities. Here is a list categorized by type:
Gastronomy
1. Tasting local products:
- Foie gras: Visit local producers to taste duck or goose foie gras.
- Truffles: Participate in tasting and cooking workshops around the black truffle of Périgord.
- Cahors wines: Visit vineyards and taste the wines from the Cahors appellation.
- Cheeses: Discover local cheeses like Roquefort (AOC).
2. Local markets:
- Market of Cahors: One of the largest regional markets, with a variety of fresh products.
- Market of Figeac: Ideal for discovering local products.
Patrimony
1. Historical sites:
- Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: Classified among the most beautiful villages in France, with medieval houses and panoramic views.
- Rocamadour: A perched village with a basilica and sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
- Château de Cénevières: A Renaissance castle with magnificent gardens.
2. Museums:
- Henri-Martin Museum of Cahors: Dedicated to artist Henri Martin and regional history.
- Champollion Museum: In Figeac, devoted to Egyptologist Jean-François Champollion.
Nature and Outdoor Activities
1. Hiking:
- Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle Way: A part of the famous pilgrimage route passes through Lot.
- Regional Natural Park of Causses du Quercy: Ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife observation.
2. Water activities:
- Canoe-kayaking on the Dordogne: Enjoy river activities.
- Swimming in rivers and lakes: Many natural swimming spots are available.
Culture and Events
1. Festivals:
- Rocamadour Music Festival: A classical and sacred music festival.
- Figeac Theatre Festival: An annual theater festival.
2. Handicrafts:
- Pottery workshops: Discover traditional pottery techniques in local studios.
- Visits to artisans: Meet local artisans specializing in woodwork, leatherworking, etc.
Other Unmissable Activities
1. Cave visits:
- Pech Merle Cave: A cave adorned with prehistoric paintings.
- Padirac Chasm: A spectacular underground site with boat tours.
2. Parks and Gardens:
- Marqueyssac Gardens: Suspended gardens with breathtaking views of the Dordogne valley.
- Gardens of Cénevières Castle: Magnificent gardens surrounding the castle.
The department of Lot offers a rich diversity of activities for all tastes, whether for gastronomy enthusiasts, history buffs, nature lovers, or culture seekers.
Festival de théâtre en plein air dans la ville historique de Figeac.
Date: Juillet-Août
Durée: 1 mois
46100 Figeac