2 days in the Lot Valley: a weekend getaway!

Whether you fancy cultural, family or sporting outings... Whether you are a lover of old stones, a sports cyclist or hiker, rather a gourmet, or simply a curious visitor... The Lot Valley will charm you and you will surely find what you are looking for.

The Lot Valley is brimming with tourist attractions. Its rolling landscapes are easily explored on foot or by bike, allowing visitors to admire its magnificent natural sites. Its lakes and rivers offer an ideal playground for all kinds of water sports, and its waterways are perfect for scenic cruises. Its tumultuous history has left behind numerous vestiges and a rich heritage to discover. Its local produce is delicious, and its regional dishes are hearty and generous. Its culture is open to the world, and its inhabitants are renowned for their welcoming and warm hospitality. We invite you to join us for a weekend getaway to discover this captivating valley, whether as a couple or with your family.

Cover photo: Penne d'Agenais.

Villeneuve-sur-Lot, a royal starting point

Villeneuve-sur-Lot is a former royal bastide town and now a regional capital. Located in the heart of the valley, it's a good starting point for a first journey westward to Aiguillon, at the confluence of the Lot and Garonne rivers. For the second day, head east to Bonaguil, on the border of the Lot-et-Garonne department.

The town's layout is typical of a bastide, with its straight, aligned streets. Its half-timbered houses, set upon traditional medieval covered walkways, still house shops. Numerous vestiges of this era remain: part of its towers and gates, its old bridge, its cathedral, and its church.

Day 1: Downstream from the Lot

After visiting Villeneuve-sur-Lot, we head downstream along the Lot River, following it downstream towards Aiguillon. We suggest a first stop in Casseneuil. This charming medieval village, nestled between the right bank of the Lot and the banks of the Lède, promises a pleasant stroll along the water's edge or through its medieval streets. Its church, a listed historical monument, its market hall, and its old houses offer numerous opportunities to pause and admire the scenery.

Then head to the commandery and the village of Le Temple-sur-Lot. The river there is particularly wide, and its water sports center is renowned. Weather permitting, you can enjoy water activities at Nautilus BKS in Castelmoron-sur-Lot. 

Just next door, in Latour-Marliac, is the Water Lily Garden. It's an exceptional collection of over 250 species of water lilies, with a museum and various areas: exotic greenhouses, ponds and fountains, a bamboo grove, a pond, and a small Japanese bridge.

We arrive in Granges-sur-Lot, the true home of the famous " Agen prune." At the Prune Farm and Museum, you can visit the museum, discover local specialties in the shop, and try out the Dédal'Prune, its corn maze, complete with themed games and quizzes. Nearby, in Lacepède, other treats await you at the Hazelnut House : its hazelnut market, " Rouxy's Investigation " for children, pony rides … In Laparade, this beautiful fortified town offers a breathtaking panorama, complete with a viewpoint indicator to help you identify landmarks in the valley.

Then we descend back to the riverbanks to see Clairac and its half-timbered houses, before reaching Nicole, between Aiguillon and Saint-Léger. It's a natural wonder not to be missed: the confluence of the Lot and Garonne rivers.

Finally, we head back towards Villeneuve-sur-Lot. Our last suggested stop is the medieval village of Pujols, one of the " Most Beautiful Villages of France." There you can see its market hall, its churches, and a beautiful panoramic view of the valley and surrounding villages. There's also a Toy Museum with antique games and figurines. If you're feeling adventurous, on the way back, in Sainte-Colombe-de-Villeneuve, you can venture into the heart of the earth at the Lastournelle cave. 

Day 2: Upstream on the Lot

We set off towards Penne d'Agenais. This medieval village, with its narrow streets and squares, its 16^th- century houses, is truly worth a stroll. Located on the " Ways of St. James of Compostela ", it boasts a beautiful architectural heritage : its Notre Dame sanctuary and its basilica.

We head upstream towards Fumel. There's an unusual sight to see in this pretty town… Watt's machine is truly amazing. It's a huge wind tunnel invented by James Watt, a Scottish engineer. The Fumel factory is fortunate enough to have one of the last two machines still in working order. 

We can't leave the river without suggesting a trip on the water.

Return to Villeneuve-sur-Lot, via Tournon d'Agenais. A walk along the ramparts of this bastide town is a must. From this rocky promontory, you have a magnificent view.

And so our getaway comes to an end. We hope we've inspired you for your next stay in this beautiful valley. This was just a glimpse of the many activities this region has to offer, and it's up to you to pick and choose your own ideas, depending on your mood and availability.

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