Boat trip on the Lot
30/06/2023
Would you like to recharge your batteries with a nature activity rich in emotions and discoveries? Take advantage of your stay in Occitanie to take a boat trip on the Lot, the emblematic river of southwest France. Taking it easy is the perfect way to describe this unparalleled river excursion. You’ll discover captivating landscapes, picturesque villages and unique experiences. Most boating locations are less than an hour from Camping les Hirondelles in Loupiac, Lot.
Explore the Lot’s sublime landscapes
Rising in Lozère, the Lot flows through Occitanie, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes and Nouvelle-Aquitaine, before emptying into the Garonne at Aiguillon. This beautiful French river is navigable for 160 km upstream and downstream of Cahors, thanks to its calm, serene waters.
As you cruise along the river, you’ll discover the sublime landscapes of the Lot.
Green hills, breathtaking cliffs, languid meanders, a riverbank rich in biodiversity, valleys dotted with vineyards, picturesque villages…
Birdsong and insect chirping provide the soothing musical backdrop to your journey.
At times, it’s necessary to stop the boat and take in the sights, to be overwhelmed by the beauty of the place.
From the Saut de la Mounine, you have an incredible panorama that sums up the Lot: winding river, limestone cliffs, rocky causse, cultivated valleys.
From this promontory, you can watch the ballet of birds of prey.
In Cahors, Mont-Saint-Cyr offers an exceptional view of the city.
Up there, you’ll have an unparalleled panorama of its bridges and buildings of varied architecture.
Take to the mountain at sunrise or sunset for an idyllic view.
Head for the most beautiful villages
The river Lot crosses the department of the same name from east to west, from Capdenac-le-Haut to Soturac. On its tranquil course, it passes through 19 towns and villages, each as beautiful as the next. Two of them are on the prestigious list of France’s Most Beautiful Villages: Capdenac-le-Haut and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. If your boat trip starts at the very beginning of the Lot portion of the river, don’t miss a stroll through the village of Capdenac-le-Haut. This village, built on a rocky spur, overlooks the river at 100 m above sea level. Climb the staircases, stroll along the ramparts and visit the medieval château.
Downstream, a stopover at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a must.
In addition to its enchanting charm, this favorite French village is home to a wealth of heritage sites.
Not to be missed: the Moulin d’Aulanac, the Gothic church of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, the home of the poet André Breton, the wine museum.
Stroll along the cirque de Vènes, a sublime towpath.
Don’t forget to climb to the top of the Rocher de Lapopie.
To round off your pleasant boat trip in the Lot, set course for Puy-l’Évêque.
It’s a magnificent medieval hillside town. Stroll through its narrow streets for a trip back in time to its rich past. Two buildings stand out: the 13th-century tower and the imposing Saint-Sauveur church, built between the 14th and 15th centuries. Puy-l’Évêque offers a pleasant view of the Cahors vineyards.
Enjoy the Lot from the river
A boat trip on the Lot is a combination of a change of scenery and new discoveries. There are many ways to enjoy these unique experiences on this long, tranquil river.
First of all, you embark on a sightseeing boat. On this cruise, you’ll enjoy the commentary of a local guide and a meal on board.
Secondly, you can hire a boat without a licence to cruise the river at your own pace and choose your own itinerary.
Thirdly, take a canoe-kayak for a more unusual experience. For added variety, you can also try your hand at other activities such as fishing, swimming or picnicking by the water’s edge.
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