Local Region and Activities.

The Lot department (46) lies in the South-West of France and the landscape is dominated by its two major rivers, the Lot and the Dordogne. The fertile slopes and valleys that border the Lot provide the ideal growing conditions for the region's main export product, Cahors (Malbec) wine.

There are many other points of interest associated with these rivers. There are stunning gorges, prehistoric caves, water sports and great walks. If you are looking for a more relaxed holiday where food & wine are a feature then the Lot can cater for that, with speciality products such as foie gras, truffles, girolles and exquisite duck all produced locally. Many foie gras producers as well as the vineyards offer tastings and tours of their facility, so you can experience the richness of the region.

Picturesque towns and villages abound in this region; wander down the narrow streets and imagine you are back in the 14th Century. The bastide town of Monpazier is only 40 minutes away. Here you will find a town that has changed little over the past 1000 years – well worth a visit. Also in this region are the historical towns of Rocamadour and St Cirque Lapopie to name but a few.

Traditional French Markets are held daily in different villages in and around Prayssac and in the summer months Marchés Nocturnes (night markets) take place most nights. These are convivial evenings when stalls are set up to sell local dishes and drink (+ invariably crafts), and families bring their own cutlery and glasses to sit at long communal tables and enjoy live music and the festive atmosphere while they eat. This being France, there is always a coffee to be bought at the end of the meal.

If it’s getting too hot for you, Prehistoric Caves and Dolmens (prehistoric houses) can be found just outside Prayssac.

Activities

All close by:

Within easy reach:

• Sarlat - The old part of the town is world famous for its restored buildings. It is the second most popular town in the world for period film sets. The cathedral is very impressive with a huge carved wooden pipe organ mounted above the main door. During the season there are street entertainments at night with some very original performers, wonderful for children. A day spent in Sarlat is an unforgettable experience.
• Rocamadour - The ancient place of pilgrimage built onto the sheer cliff of a ravine with the home of the Knights Templar at the top. Absolutely spectacular, with stunning views.
• Cahors - Capital of the Lot region. Fantastic Saturday and Wednesday markets .
• Lascaux - Renowned for its prehistoric cave paintings. One of many such sites in the area, known as The Cradle of Mankind.
• Collange La Rouge - A complete village built in red stone. Now uninhabited, but fully restored with artisan shops and other exhibits. Unbelievably pretty.
• St. Cirque la Popie - Officially one of the top three prettiest villages in France' certainly the most photographed.
• Quercyland - Near Frayssinet le Galat. Water park fun for the whole family.

These are only samples of the very many attractions in this area, many of them right on the doorstep. There are caves, castles, chateaux, rivers and wonderful old towns and villages to explore. It would take a lifetime of holidays to see them all.