Exploring the Treasures of the Lot Department

Categories: French Departments, Occitanie, Toulouse Area

This episode features our frequent and very popular guest Elyse Rivin. If you enjoy her episodes, please consider supporting her on Patreon.

Welcome back to Join Us in France where today Annie Sargent and Elyse Rivin go about Exploring the Treasures of the Lot Department. The Lot Deparment is in the Occitanie region in the southwest of France. It is a gem filled with historical sites, natural wonders, and culinary delights. Today, we're embarking on an audio podcast journey through this part of France. Elyse and Annie, who both live in the area, reveal the best it has to offer.

Exploring the Treasures of the Lot Department

The Lot department comprises the ancient region of Quercy and a slice of Perigord. Its geography is marked by the Causses, limestone plateaus that present a dramatic terrain of cliffs, caves, and waterways. The Lot is a testament to the beauty and diversity of the French countryside. With the Dordogne River adding lush greenery to its southwest and the Lot and Célé rivers cutting through more rugged landscapes.

Natural Beauty and Stunning Villages

Our exploration wouldn't be complete without diving into the Lot's rich tapestry of ancient villages, chateaux, religious sites, and prehistoric caves. This department is not only a haven for history buffs but also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 80 sites for subterranean diving in caves, the Lot stands second only to the Yucatan in this adventurous pursuit.

Despite drawing over 3 million visitors annually, the Lot remains predominantly rural. Its largest city, Cahors, is a small yet charming city with a population of just 22,000. Vacation homes account for over 20% of residences in the Lot, showing that French people love to spend time in the Lot as well!

Must-Sees in the Lot

In this episode we take you through the must-visit sites in the Lot. From the enchanting city of Cahors with its medieval bridges and mysterious cathedral to the awe-inspiring prehistoric Cave of Pech Merle. We'll visit Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, a vertical village known for its breathtaking views and artistic heritage. We'll also delve into the spiritual heart of Rocamadour, a medieval village that's a major pilgrimage site.

No visit to the Lot would be complete without a visit to the natural spectacle of the Gouffre de Padirac. How about strolling through Martel, the village of seven towers? And let's not forget Figeac! The hometown of Champollion, the decoder of the Rosetta Stone.

The Lot's beauty extends beyond its sites to include some of France's most beautiful villages. These villages, often perched atop cliffs or nestled in serene valleys, are a testament to the region's rich history and the battles fought over its land.

A Land of Wonderful Gastronomy

But the Lot isn't just about history and landscapes. It's a culinary treasure trove. How about the coveted black truffles and walnuts of the Causses? We love the local Rocamadour cheese, savor the sweetness of the Melon de Quercy, and toast with a glass of the rich, dark Cahors wine.

Click play and join us as we uncover the Lot's treasures, a department that we love.

More episodes about the Occitanie region

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