The Douelle Cruise

Douelle > Luzech > Cr�gols > Douelle

From our base at Douelle you can cruise the River Lot in either direction and experience the delights of this wonderful waterway at your leisure.

Travel west to the pretty town of Luzech, situated in a huge loop of the river and dominated by the 13th century Chapelle de Notr -Dame-de-l’Île. The church is dedicated to the boatmen who once transported the local Cahors wines by barge to Bordeaux.

Heading east, the imposing 7th century castle at Mercuès towers over the river. Its famous restaurant is well worth visiting. Cruise on to the historic town of Cahors and pass under the town’s medieval masterpiece – the 14th century Valentré Bridge, a stunning structure with three towers. Enjoy a glass of Cahors wine or treat yourself to some delicious foie gras and truffles – specialities of the Quercy region! Further on at Arcambal you can stop for a refreshing glass of locally-brewed Bière d’Olt.

Cruise along the foot of the Bouzies cliffs en route to the 7th century stone village of St Cirq Lapopie perched high on the cliffs and one of the best-loved sights along the river. Spend some time in this delightful medieval village and discover its red roofed, timber-fronted, honey coloured houses dating from the 13th- 16th centuries. Famous for its crafsmen through the ages – the streets today still bear the names of the crafts once made there. Over the years, many artists have made this ancient village their home – inspired by its old-world charm, peacefulness and surrounding beauty.

For a different perspective on art you can cycle to the famous Pech-Merle caves close to the town of Cabrerets and marvel at the prehistoric drawings and remarkable stalagmites in this 2km long natural art gallery underground.

Since 2007 it has been possible to cruise as far as Larnagol as efforts to open up the Lot to navigation continue. This fortified village, once a centre for silkworm farming, dominates the river and is one of the most picturesque spots on the river. The nearby village and château at Calvignac are great for a final cycle ride before heading back to Douelle.

Distance: 128 km
Cruising Time: 27 hrs
Locks: 28
Return Trip

Douelle > Luzech > Cr�gols > Douelle

Cenevieres Sur Larganol

This is the furthest point you can navigate on the River Lot

La Touzanie

Tour De Faure

This village is protected by a feudal dungeon dating from the 13th century

Saint Cirq Lapopie

The village of St. Cirq Lapopie is one of the major beauty spots in the Lot valley and must be seen. Set on a hill high above the River Lot, St. Cirq La Popie has a rich history. Named France's most beautiful village, it has narrow streets lined with local artisans' homes where they sell their work ranging from leather goods to jewellery. The village also abounds with cafes and restaurants where you can observe village life before making your way to a vantage point where the river below and the panorama of the area can be viewed.

Bouzies

Chateau des Anglais - fortified during the 100 year war

Saint Gery

Fantastic scenery - admire the cliffs overlooking this part of the river; great birdwatching and nature-watching

Vers

Enchanting little village with cascades and River Vers.

Arcambal

14th Century Chateau Bosquet on the left side as you approach

Lamagdelaine

A peaceful place to moor up - close to a football field

Cahors

It is a cosmopolitan town famous for its Wednesday and Saturday morning market, dark heady wine, cafes, shops, truffle centre and Cathedral de St-Etienne and the unique 14th century fortified Valentr� bridge.

Pradines

Football field and petanque - great if you want to stretch your legs or let the children have a play

Mercues

Between Catus and Cahors is the village of Mercues with its beautiful and imposing chateau. Besides wine production, the chateau is operated as a hotel and restaurant. There are many wine producing chateaux in the immediate vicinity and most offer free tastings, so you can choose your preferred vignoble and vintage. Within the same small area you can also find many farms offering local specialities - particularly pate de foie gras.

Douelle

Douelle was the biggest centre for river traffic on the River Lot; it is situated in the heart of the vineyards and was an important trading town

Caillac

A small welcoming village ideal for walking or cycling

Parnac

There is a lovely mooring here under the trees with picnic tables and BBQ

Caix

The little town of Caix has no shops but an attractive recreational centre and you are able to top up with water Slow down as you go by and keep outside the yellow buoys. Visit the attractive gardens and excellent wine cellars at the Chateau, which now belongs to the Danish Royal Family.