Calvignac and the department Lot
Calvignac, a medieval village with stunning views over the valley of the river Lot. Situated in the Lot departement in the heart of the “Parc Régional du Causses du Quercy”.
The natural environment
Region of stone (the natural stone walls) and water. The water digs caves and abysses, disappears from view and resurfaces elsewhere. For example at the Gouffre de Lantouy.
Canoeing, paddleboard, etc.
Canoeing on the river Lot or Célé, at Kalapca or Passion Aventure they are happy to welcome you. Or the “plan d’eau” in Cajarc near the river Lot, where you can canoe, paddle board, pedal boat, etc.
Cahors
The symbol of the city is the fortified bridge Pont Valentré. Stroll through the Boulevard Gambetta with its plane trees, many cafes, restaurants and shops. East of the Boulevard is the old quarter.
Gouffre de Padirac
Discover the Gouffre de Padirac by gondola on the underground river during a trip through the different rooms of the cave (including the Salle du Grand Dôme, with a ceiling of up to 94 meters high!)
Chateau Cenevières
The Château de Cénevières (you can spot the castle at the property) has its origins in the 13th century. The guided tours are given by the owners; in the evening in a special setting.
Animal parks
Visit the Forêt des Singes, where nearly 150 Barbary macaques (who roam freely) can be seen. Or the Parc Animalier in Gramat with 1000 European wild and domestic animals.
In the air
What about a balloon flight above the Quercy, or for the real thrillseekers: paragliding, hang gliding and skydiving? Check the website of Les choses de l’air or Airlinks for possibilities.
Local markets
Visit the local markets of the Lot department, for example in Limogne en Quercy, Cajarc, Cahors and Villefranche de Rouergue. Click here for a comprehensive overview.
Bistro Belles Vues
Bistro Belles Vues at 2 minutes walk from Mas du Rocher. The volunteers of the village do welcome you during the summer for a simple lunch or just a glass of wine or a draft beer.
Saint Cirq Lapopie
In 2012 Saint Cirq Lapopie was elected as one of the most beautiful villages in France. The village is built on the cliffs along the river Lot. From the old fort you have a beautiful view over the river.
Cliff climbing, caving and more
Ever thought about climbing a cliff, following a trail along rock walls using ziplines, monkey bridges, slacklines or even caving? Check out the Kalapca website for the possibilities.
Chateau Montal
Chateau de Montal: a Renaissance style castle with 3 round and 1 square tower. Its origins date back to the early 16th century. During the war (in 1943) the Mona Lisa was hidden for the Germans in the castle.
Horseback riding
There are several riding schools in the area where you can take a ride outside or even a multi-day internship (arrange in advance!). Find a riding school near you here.
Pech Merle
La Grotte du Pech Merle: a cave about 2 km long, located near the village of Cabrerets. Here you can find prehistoric petroglyphs that are considered among the most beautiful in France.
Rocamadour
Worth a visit: the pilgrimage site of Rocamadour, built on a rock above the river Alzou. Experience the unique atmosphere, a combination of history, cosiness, art in a beautiful scenery.
Hiking
The extensive and natural surroundings are a perfect opportunity to take short, long or multi-day walks. You can check the “Office de Tourisme“, it has described about 150 walks.
Chateau Castelnau Bretenoux
Chateau Castelnau-Bretenoux was built between the 12th and 17th centuries on a hill dominating several valleys: an impressive red stone fortress with a keep and ramparts.
Golf
Golf du Totche: very well maintained. Renowned for its quality greens, hard and tortuous. This is a 9 hole compact (only par 3, no more than 120 m), on which appears a pitch and putt plot
Chateau Larnagol
Built as a military stronghold in the 12th century. The castle was bought in 2011 by the current owners who live in the castle throughout the year. The castle and gardens can be visited.
Grotte de Lacave
The Grotte de Lacave is one of the most beautiful caves in the department. A electric train takes you into the cave, after which the twelve beautiful rooms of the cave are visited.
Figeac
This ancient city, founded on the banks of the Célé, has been a dynamic trading town since the Middle Ages, open to the world. The “circuit des clefs” guides you along the secret places of Figeac.
Abbaye de Loc Dieu
The Abbaye de Loc Dieu was founded in 1123 by 13 monks in an area known for bandits and highwaymen. The battles between monks and bandits have become legendary.
Wine tasting
The dark powerful wines of Cahors (main grape variety Malbec) or the smooth wines of the Coteaux de Quercy (main grape variety Cabernet Franc). Multiple winehouses can be visited.
Ecomuseum Cuzals
Come and discover the ancient craftsmenship of the Quercy region in the Cuzals ecomuseum. Demonstrations through the day and each wednesday afternoon special workshops for the kids.
Martel / steam train
Martel has been classified as one of the most beautiful places in France. In addition to a visit to the village, the Martel steam train with open wagons is highly recommended.