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The
Douelle Cruise
Douelle - Luzech -
Crégols - Douelle
1 Week -
Return trip
128kms
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28 locks
•
27hrs
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 Notre-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. |
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For many, this is
river cruising at its best! The meandering River Lot flows
through wide valleys and narrow gorges, beneath spectacular
limestone cliffs and past cascading waterfalls, taking you on a
memorable voyage to ancient castles, medieval villages and
historic châteaux.
Our base at Douelle is
perfectly situated for exploring the Lot in both directions –
west towards the Gallic town of Luzech and east as far as
Larnagol which is newly open to navigation. Orchards, vineyards
and pine forests colour the landscape, and picnics on the
riverbank, swimming in the clear waters and fishing from your
boat are all fun to do. For a change of cruising style, kayaks
and canoes are available to hire at various sites along the
river and make for a fun day out. And of course, the
natural environment of the Lot is home to an amazing array of
wildlife; |
watch otters playing on the riverbanks and
kingfishers and herons fishing for food, while majestic eagles
can be seen soaring the skies above. Bring your
binoculars! Discover the Lot on horseback! If you love
horse-riding, why not hire your own horse to take along with
you!
Local stables can provide everything you need
from riding tackle to hay, giving you a unique chance to explore
the beautiful countryside on horseback while others in your
party cruise. A detailed itinerary, including best places to
stop for the evening for you and your horse is provided. Speak
to the sales teams for more details and they will be happy to
help. |
