Destinations / France / Lot River
The clear water of the Lot River will carry you to a landscape of wide valleys, magnificent limestone cliffs and villages scattered over the surrounding hills. The meanders of the river take you under the steep gorges that are intrinsic to the Lot and Quercy regions. Ancient castles, enchanting chateaux and medieval towns also dot the unusually peaceful route, so history buffs will also enjoy the cruise.
The nature around the Lot River is home to a huge number of animal species, especially birds. Tread quietly among the rare orchids and heathers, and if you're lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of soaring eagles. If you're not keen on nature up close, head to the rocks. From them, you can see the landscape around the Lot River like the palm of your hand.
From our bases in Douelle or Bouzies, you can sail the Lot River in either direction. To the west, you'll find the town of Luzech, whose 13th-century church is dedicated to the local boatmen who once transported Cahors wines to Bordeaux. In Mercuès, you'll be impressed by the imposing 7th-century castle towers, which still tower impressively over the watercourse. The Pont Valentré bridge will also impress you in the area . It has guarded the capital of the Cahors region since the 14th century. Cross it and walk through the beautiful gardens into the narrow cobbled streets of the old town, where you can stop in the medieval market square and enjoy delicious foie gras with a glass of strong Cahors wine.
During your cruise, be sure to visit the 7th-century stone village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, perched high on the cliffs and home to artisans and artists for centuries. The narrow, cobbled streets still bear the names of the crafts once practiced here. Then put the pedal to the metal and head to the Pech-Merle caves near Cabrerets. The natural underground galleries full of prehistoric cave paintings and remarkable stalagmites will take your breath away. Also stop at the fortified village of Larnagol or Calvignac, built on a high cliff. You'd be hard pressed to find a better place to enjoy absolute tranquillity.
The medieval village of Cirque la Popie
You can exchange the houseboat for another means of transport for a while. Rent a kayak, go for a bike ride or enjoy the French countryside from the back of a horse. You will remember an experience like this for a long time. Simply put, the Lot seems to lack nothing – beautiful scenery, stunning flora and fauna and delicious food can be found at every turn.
A cruise on the Lot River is an unforgettable spectacle. See for yourself:
Cruises for 2–5 days | Cruises for a week | Cruises for 10 days
Trip length: 3 days | 40 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 16
You're leaving the base in the city of Cahors. Here you will find many exceptional views of the green meanders of the Lot River. Enjoy 64 km of river full of adventure!
Trip length: 3 days | 56 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 6
You're leaving the base in the city of Cahors. Here you will find many exceptional views of the green meanders of the Lot River. Enjoy 64 km of river full of adventure!
Trip length: 3 days | 56 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 10
The Lot River winds its way around limestone cliffs and cliff faces, but also through a fertile landscape with vineyards on terraces, creating countless bends that give it a special charm.
Trip length: 4 days | 64 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 16
The clear waters of the Lot River flow leisurely through valleys and steep gorges, under spectacular limestone cliffs. They will lead you on memorable and leisurely expeditions to ancient castles, medieval villages and historic chateaus.
Trip length: 5 days | 70 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 22
The Lot River winds its way around limestone cliffs and cliff faces, but also through a fertile landscape with vineyards on terraces, creating countless bends that give it a special charm.
Trip length: 5 days | 116 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 24
The Lot River winds its way around limestone cliffs and cliff faces, but also through a fertile landscape with vineyards on terraces, creating countless bends that give it a special charm.
Trip length: 7 days | 66 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 22
You're leaving the base in the city of Cahors. Here you will find many exceptional views of the green meanders of the Lot River. Enjoy 64 km of river full of adventure!
Trip length: 7 days | 90 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 26
The Lot River winds through wooded valleys with limestone cliffs and caves and offers 74 km of adventure!
Trip length: 7 days | 128 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 28
The clear waters of the Lot River flow leisurely through valleys and steep gorges, under spectacular limestone cliffs. They will lead you on memorable and leisurely expeditions to ancient castles, medieval villages and historic chateaus.
Trip length: 7 days | 146 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 34
The Lot River winds its way around limestone cliffs and cliff faces, but also through a fertile landscape with vineyards on terraces, creating countless bends that give it a special charm.
Trip length: 7 days | 148 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 34
The Lot River winds its way around limestone cliffs and cliff faces, but also through a fertile landscape with vineyards on terraces, creating countless bends that give it a special charm.
Trip length: 7 days | 148 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 34
The Lot River winds through wooded valleys with limestone cliffs and caves and offers 74 km of adventure!
Trip length: 7 days | 150 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 34
You're leaving the base in the city of Cahors. Here you will find many exceptional views of the green meanders of the Lot River. Enjoy 64 km of river full of adventure!
Trip length: 7 days | 173 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 24
The Lot River meanders past limestone cliffs and cliff faces, but also through a fertile landscape with vineyards on terraces, creating countless bends that give it a special charm.
Trip length: 10 days | 150 km
Type of cruise: there and back
Number of locks: 34
You're leaving the base in the city of Cahors. Here you will find many exceptional views of the green meanders of the Lot River. Enjoy 64 km of river full of adventure!