Touring by car is a real pleasure on the Lot’s quiet country roads and even at busy times of year the main roads rarely feel choked and the views are worth taking them slowly. Starting from Cubertou, we have marked on the map below two meandering routes (both taking in Montcuq), which you should not even attempt without a good detailed map. The third takes a simpler route along the Lot valley to Cahors which is well worth a visit.
For other towns and cities on the pilgrimage route to St James of Compostelle with approximate driving times please click here.
And see our short list of favourite beauty spots for other outings.
Bonne route!
Three suggested circuits by car |
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Blue circuit – In search of Hidden treasures (120 kms / 75 miles
Hidden charms and surprises, the less spectacular but all the more rewarding keys to unlocking the Lot landscape. Be prepared for sleepy hamlets, narrow roads, and beverage free zones if you follow this route.
Orange circuit – The wine and water trail (110 km / 70 miles)
From hidden springs to the banks of the Lot river, this route will entice you from fertile valleys to arid plateaux, through the vineyards of Cahors and of the Coteaux du Quercy. Let yourself be tempted to do a little wine-tasting (signed dégustation gratuite) on the way, or on the way back, or both… drivers excepted of course.
Yellow circuit – The Lot valley and Cahors (86 km / 54 miles)
For an easy outing taking time to stop in some pretty villages along the way, follow this simple route from Duravel, just by Cubertou, to Cahors. The tourist office is on the main boulevard in the middle of this historic city, next to the imposing statue of Gambetta by the underground car park scheduled to be opened in 2008.
Cahors
Cahors |
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FAIRS AND MARKETS
Montcuq
Montcuq |
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Situation The Medieval town of Montcuq prospered in the 12th century and early 13th centuries, its history inextricably linked to the Counts of Toulouse. Its fortifications were destroyed when Raymond VII was forced to accept the Treaty of Paris. In the 15th century, the town emerged almost completely ruined from the 100 years’ war with only its remarkable fortified watchtower dating from 1100 remaining. The many half-timbered houses in its narrow winding streets date from its reconstruction after this troubled period. Today, Montcuq is a bustling market town, organised around a shaded alley for players of boules, with several restaurants and a lively Sunday morning street market, so popular in the summer that you can “park and ride”  Montcuq also hosts the 2 jours de Montcuq international endurance event in late October/ early November. And on the first weekend after Easter, there is a 2 days equestrian flea market, where you can buy, sell or exchange all things horsey, from books to carriages.
And if you’re wondering why Montcuq came out TOP in a web vote launched by Hasbro to decide on names for a new Monopoly board featuring French towns and cities, here’s the answer. Pronounced according to the usual rules, the “t” and the “q” of Montcuq are silent, making it sound exactly like “mon cul” (the “l” being also silent) meaning (sorry about this) “my arse”. Some wag launched a blog inciting people to vote for the saucy name and it worked! |
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