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Would you like to discover another side of the Lot, away from the most popular tourist routes? This day trip takes you to the western part of the Lot Valley, where you’ll find charming villages, medieval heritage sites, remarkable gardens, and legendary fortresses.
Starting from Les Hauts de Sauliès, this itinerary was designed to alternate between cultural discoveries, panoramic views, and moments of relaxation, without covering too many kilometers. You’ll start your day in Les Arques, a small village in the Bouriane region made famous by the sculptor Ossip Zadkine. Its museum and the works scattered throughout the narrow streets offer a unique blend of contemporary art and rural heritage.
After a gourmet break at La Récréation, head to the Jardins Toscans d’Albas, a veritable flower-filled balcony overlooking the Lot Valley. Next comes Puy-l’Évêque, one of the most beautiful villages in the Cahors wine region. Its cobblestone streets, medieval houses, and panoramic views of the river invite you to stroll and take photos.
The day ends on a high note with a visit to Bonaguil Castle, considered the last great medieval fortress built in France. Its ramparts, monumental towers, drawbridges, and defensive systems bear witness to the exceptional military expertise of the late Middle Ages.
Open to everyone, this tour is an excellent way to explore the heritage of the Lot region and the Lot Valley. It will appeal to history buffs as well as enthusiasts of photography, gardens, and architecture, while allowing visitors to fully enjoy the peaceful landscapes that give Quercy its charm.
Practical Information
- Les Arques – Zadkine Museum – 40 minutes
- Lunch During Recess
- Albas Gardens – 20 minutes
- Puy L’Evêque – 15 minutes
- Bonaguil Castle – 20 minutes
- Les Hauts de Sauliès – 1 hour 10 minutes
Map of the route
The Day’s Schedule
Les Arques & Zadkine Museum – Travel time: 20 min
In the heart of the small village of Les Arques, nestled in the Bouriane region, lies an iconic site: the Zadkine Museum. Dedicated to the Russian-born artist Ossip Zadkine, it features a collection of powerful works carved from wood, stone, and bronze. The outdoor tour allows visitors to discover sculptures scattered throughout the village, particularly near the Church of Saint-Laurent.
Hours: April through October—10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays).
Lunch – La Récréation Restaurant (Les Arques)
Housed in the village’s former school, La Récréation restaurant offers refined and hearty regional cuisine. It captures the warm, friendly spirit of southwestern France, nestled among stone buildings and greenery. It’s the perfect place to stop after visiting the museum. Phone: 05 65 22 88 08
💡 Tip: Choose the flower-filled terrace in the summer.
Albas Tuscan Gardens – Travel time: 30 min
Overlooking the Lot Valley, the Jardins d’Albas invite you to take a sensory stroll among flower-filled terraces, Mediterranean scents, and splendid panoramic views of the hillsides. The passionate owners welcome you to share the history of this place and its botanical varieties.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Puy-l’Évêque – Travel time: 20 min
Overlooking the Lot River, the medieval town of Puy-l’Évêque is perched on a rocky outcrop and offers an exceptional panoramic view. With its tower houses, cobblestone streets, and scenic viewpoints, a visit to the village takes you on a journey through the history of Quercy.
📖 Visitor Guide
Bonaguil Castle – Travel time: 25 min
As France’s last remaining medieval fortress, the Château de Bonaguil impresses with its excellent state of preservation and architectural grandeur. A fascinating visit in a remarkable natural setting, surrounded by stone, greenery, and panoramic views of the Lémance Valley.
Hours: April through October — 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Saint-Sauveur Church
A 15th-century Gothic church, notable for its bell tower and stained-glass windows created by the Gesta workshop in Toulouse. A gem of local religious architecture.
Hours: Generally open during the day.
Clock Tower
A medieval defensive structure and a symbol of episcopal power. From the top, there is a breathtaking view of the town’s rooftops and the Lot Valley. Free admission from the historic center.
Lychairie Castle
A former 13th-century manor house associated with the Ychier del Pech family. Its mullioned windows and commanding location make it one of the most photographed sites in the village. Occasional tours are available through the Tourist Office.
Back to Les Hauts de Sauliès – Travel time: 40 min
💡 Suggestion: On your way back, you can stop by the “La terre tourne” Art Studio and Gallery.
End your day at your own pace: enjoy the tranquility of this place for a moment of relaxation in the heart of the Lot.
💡Our tip
We recommend that you make a reservation for the tour of the Pech Merle cave. Time slots are limited to preserve the prehistoric paintings, and spots fill up quickly in the summer. After the tour, head to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie in the late morning to stroll through the narrow streets before the afternoon crowds arrive. Have lunch there or along the banks of the Lot River, then continue on to Cénevières Castle, where the late-afternoon light beautifully highlights the Renaissance facades and the panoramic views of the valley. Before returning to Les Hauts de Sauliès, make a short stop in Cabrerets to catch a glimpse of the spectacular “Devil’s Castle,” a troglodytic fortification discreetly nestled in the cliff.
FAQ
Plan on a full day—between 8 and 9 hours—to fully enjoy the three sites.
The Zadkine Museum and Bonaguil Castle can get very crowded in the summer. Check the opening hours before you leave.
Spring and early fall offer the most beautiful light and pleasant temperatures. The gardens of Albas are particularly spectacular between May and July.
Yes. The Zadkine Museum and Bonaguil Castle allow you to complete most of the tour even in inclement weather.
Extend the experience from Les Hauts de Sauliès
After a day spent exploring Les Arques, Puy-l’Évêque, and the Château de Bonaguil, come back and enjoy the tranquility of our bed-and-breakfast, nestled in the heart of the Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park.
Thanks to our central location, most of the major tourist attractions in the Lot region are less than an hour’s drive away. We also offer a variety of other itineraries, based on our own experience of the area.
To make the most of your stay, check out:
Useful links:
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