Four days in Lot-et-Garonne: The useful and detailed guide!

Lot-et-Garonne is a beautiful region, steeped in history and geography. Nestled between the Lot, its main river, and the Garonne, its other major river, it's a rich land that has attracted many covetous eyes and prominent figures. From Richard the Lionheart and Jeanne d'Albret to Henry IV, each left their mark, demonstrating their love for these verdant valleys. Whether you're a lover of historic buildings, a food enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of these landscapes, we offer three enticing four-day getaways centered around three iconic towns: Agen, Marmande, and Castillonnès.

Starting from Agen

We begin our first tour exploring the Agenais region and the Lot Valley. Naturally, we'll be based in Agen, the capital of the Lot-et-Garonne department. Its tumultuous history promises some wonderful surprises. Many culinary delights await us there… the famous prunes, of course, but not only that. The vineyards around the Lot River will offer you, in particular, some excellent tastings of Buzet wines.

Day 1: Agen

A visit to Agen is a must. Explore its historic center, wandering through its medieval streets lined with half-timbered houses. Beautiful monuments are open to the public, including the Museum of Fine Arts, housed in a former private mansion. Grand Haussmannian boulevards and elegant boutiques also await you, perfect for indulging your taste buds. Looking for a unique and authentic gift idea? Quercy des Îles is an aperitif made from grapes: the famous Chasselas of Moissac.

If you want to learn more about the famous prunes, you'll have to make a detour to the Lot Valley. In Laffite-sur-Lot, you'll find the Prune Farm and Museum. A visit to the museum will teach you everything you need to know, from cultivation and harvesting to the production of the products. And to finish on a delicious note, a tasting is offered. If you're with family, don't leave without trying the corn maze, with its themed games and quizzes. One last tip before you go: there's a discount card available for two other sites: the Hazelnut House and the Foie Gras Museum.

Day 2: A Journey Through Time

Between the Lot Valley and the Agenais region, we take you on a journey through time. We make our first stop in the Middle Ages, at the impressive bastide town of Puymirol. Its elongated layout is unusual, and its magnificent panorama over the surrounding plains is well worth lingering over. Then, take a break in Beauville to admire its medieval castle. Visit the fortified village of Frespech to see its castle and Romanesque church. We return to the present day at the Foie Gras Museum (combined ticket with the Prune House and the Hazelnut House).

Day 3: A tour of the beautiful villages

We head south to discover some beautiful villages. Our first stop is Moirax, with its Romanesque church and Cluniac priory. Then, we climb to the hilltop village of Laplume for a lovely walk along its ramparts. Unusually, the village has three wash houses. We finish in Astaffort, the town of Cabrel. To make sure you don't miss any of its rich heritage, you can follow the signs for the historical trail : Porte Corné, bell tower, chapel, church, and fortified house…

Day 4: In the heart of Joan's country

And to finish this first tour, we head to the Albret region. The town of Nérac is known as the " pearl of the Albret." You can easily spend the day there, exploring its medieval quarter with its half-timbered houses or strolling along the riverbank. The Moulin des Tours de Barbaste is also a magnificent site. And why not treat yourself to a cruise on a traditional flat-bottomed boat ? Prince Henry Cruises offers various packages and meals on the water.

Starting from Marmande

For this second tour, we're taking you to the heart of the Garonne Valley and Gascony. We couldn't have chosen a better starting point than the " beautiful Marmande." Founded by Richard the Lionheart on the banks of the Garonne, it owes its prosperity to this river. Since Gallo-Roman times, this land has charmed many. You're sure to find something to enjoy exploring it.

Day 1: Marmande

First stop: Marmande, the tomato capital ! This vegetable-growing hub is a delight to behold! Its fertile land has made it prosperous, and as a result, it boasts a rich architectural and cultural heritage. Here's a glimpse of it in our article about the city.

To immerse yourself in wine culture in a unique way, the Cave du Marmandais in Beaupuy offers a wine-themed escape game. A tasting will be offered, if you manage to escape, of course…

Day 2: A heritage tour

Let's begin our loop: Le Mas d'Agenais, Tonneins, Gontaud de Nogaret. Le Mas d'Agenais' history dates back to Roman times, but you'll also find some beautiful more recent pieces, including a 17^th- century Rembrandt ! We continue on to the charming village of Gontaud de Nogaret : its market hall, its cloister, but above all, its flower field. Don't miss a visit to this unique farm specializing in fresh and dried flowers. We complete our tour with Tonneins : the bridge over the Garonne, the ferryman's house, and its public garden, remarkable for its exceptional trees.

Whether in Mas d'Agenais, Tonneins, or Lagruère, AMI Garonne offers a river trip that is both enjoyable and educational. A natural wonder not to be missed: At Nicole, between Aiguillon and Saint-Léger, lies the confluence of the Lot and Garonne rivers.

In the area, you can also treat yourself to a tasting to discover the different grape varieties at the Moncassin winery.

Day 3: Along the Garonne

We invite you to let yourself be carried away by the current. Our first stop is Couthures-sur-Garonne. A fishing village, then a toll castle on the Garonne, the lives of the " Garonne people " are dictated by the river. How do they cope with the whims of nature, the floods, and the river's other fury? This passion for the tumultuous Garonne, passed down through the centuries, is shared with you by the " Garonne Enthusiasts." Come visit this unique place, which children will love!

Dating back to the 12th century, Meilhan-sur-Garonne is a former English citadel. Perched on a rocky promontory, this fortress was considered impregnable at the time. Today, it offers a beautiful panoramic view of the valley. For quality products, take a short trip to the Rucher du Pigeonnier apiary.

These villages are located on the banks of the Garonne River. So why not discover them directly from the water? The Garonne Lateral Canal is bordered by a greenway. Lined with trees and shaded, the path is punctuated by locks. Navigation is particularly easy and pleasant. In Fourques-sur-Garonne, Émeraude Navigation offers boats that don't require a license. Prefer dry land? They also rent bicycles so you can enjoy the cycle path.

Day 4: Heading to the Purple Périgord

For this final day of the final tour, we're taking you beyond the borders of Lot-et-Garonne, for a foray into the Périgord Pourpre region. Just outside the department, you can visit the Château de Biron and the fortified town of Monpazier.

A little further on, to get close to the Dordogne, go to Duras, to taste the Bergerac wines.

On your return, take a stroll through Villeréal to admire its fortified church, which is quite unique with its two towers.

Did you enjoy this article? Find more in our Top Experiences section.

Follow us on the Facebook page of the Lot et Garonne Guide and on Instagram @guidedulotetgaronne.