Visit the Cloup d'Aural Phosphate Mines: A Nature and Heritage Tour in the Heart of Quercy

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Just a few kilometers from the Hauts de Sauliès, this route invites you to discover a little-known but fascinating natural heritage. Between the village of Concots and the Cloup d’Aural phosphate mines, this day-long excursion immerses visitors in the geological history of Quercy, where they’ll encounter a landscape shaped over millions of years.

Your journey begins in Concots, a charming little village nestled on the Causse plateau. Once a stronghold of the Knights of Cardaillac, it preserves traces of its medieval past through its feudal tower, the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, and its peaceful village center. Far from the hustle and bustle of major tourist sites, Concots offers a pleasant introduction to the authentic charm of Quercy and its way of life.

After lunch at one of the excellent inns in the area, the tour continues to the Cloup d’Aural phosphate mines, one of the most remarkable geological sites in the Lot. Formerly phosphate mines operated in the 19th century, they now hold an exceptional scientific heritage. More than 700 fossil species have been discovered there, allowing us to trace nearly 30 million years of evolution in the region’s fauna and climate. The guided tour takes you into the heart of a spectacular chasm overgrown with lush vegetation, in an atmosphere that is both mysterious and refreshing.

This itinerary will appeal to enthusiasts of nature, geology, paleontology, and rural heritage. It’s also an excellent choice for a family outing, thanks to its educational areas, on-site activities, and the reasonable travel times involved. An original day trip that reveals a lesser-known but equally fascinating side of the Lot.

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Practical Information

• Concots – 30 minutes
• Lunch at L’Esprit de Causse (Concots) or at the Auberge Lou Bourdié (Bach) – 8 minutes
• The Cloup d’Aural Phosphate Mines – 2 minutes
• Back to Les Hauts de Sauliès – 39 minutes

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Map of the route

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The Day’s Schedule

Concots – Travel time: 30 min

Situated on a former natural basin, Concots developed around a medieval castrum built in the 13th century by the Knights of Cardaillac. Its square feudal tower, separate from the 15th-century seigneurial residence, formed the heart of the fort that protected the village. After the Hundred Years’ War, the village was rebuilt and became a prosperous market town, known for its vineyards, truffles, and crafts.

Lunch at L’Esprit de Causse (Concots) or at the Auberge Lou Bourdié (Bach)

Lunch at L’Esprit de Causse (Concots)
Located in the heart of the village of Concots, L’Esprit de Causse is housed in a historic building that has served as an inn since the 19th century.
Reopened in 2016, it now combines the charm of its historic architecture with inventive and hearty cuisine inspired by local producers. In an atmosphere that is both elegant and relaxed, dinner can easily turn into a longer stay: two guest rooms and a spa area invite you to linger and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
Phone: 05.65.22.37.66 (closed Sunday evenings and Mondays)

Lunch – Auberge Lou Bourdié (Bach)
Nestled in the heart of the Lot countryside, Lou Bourdié is an authentic inn where hikers, regulars, and foodies alike gather. In the kitchen, Monique Valette delights guests with generous, authentic regional cuisine inspired by the market: garden soup, stuffed chicken, saffron-infused pig’s trotter, or homemade apple pastis.
Lou Bourdié has become a true culinary institution thanks to its warm hospitality and 100% homemade cuisine. It’s a must-visit spot to experience the warmth of Quercy and the culinary art of tradition.
Phone: 05 65 31 77 46 (closed Wednesdays and Saturdays)

Cloup d’Aural Phosphate Mines – Travel time: 2 min

These former 19th-century phosphate mines have yielded more than 700 fossils, tracing 30 million years of evolution in the region’s fauna and climate. The guided tour (about 1 hour) takes you more than 20 meters underground into a surprising world that blends geology, paleontology, and tropical flora. Outdoor themed areas, an exhibition hall, and scavenger hunts for children round out this fun and educational experience, perfect for families or friends.
Hours: Check the website.
Be sure to wear clothing appropriate for the day’s weather, including long sleeves (temperature 12–15°), and non-slip shoes on rainy days—reservations are strongly recommended.

Back to Les Hauts de Sauliès – Travel time: 39 min

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💡Our tip

Book your tour of the phosphate mines in advance, especially during school breaks when slots fill up quickly. We recommend starting your day in Concots, then enjoying a leisurely lunch at L’Esprit de Causse or Auberge Lou Bourdié before your guided tour in the afternoon. Don’t forget to bring a light jacket: even in the middle of summer, the temperature in the phosphate mines ranges from 12 to 15 °C. If you’re traveling with children, plan to spend a little extra time enjoying the educational areas and scavenger hunts available on the site.

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FAQ

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Extend the experience from Les Hauts de Sauliès

Our prime location, just about 30 minutes from the Cloup d’Aural and Concots phosphate mines, makes Les Hauts de Sauliès an ideal starting point for exploring the natural and geological treasures of Quercy. After a day spent discovering the landscapes, paleontology, and rural heritage, return to the tranquility of our guesthouse before continuing your journey to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, the Lot Valley, Cahors, or the other itineraries we’ve designed to help you experience the Lot in a new light.

To make the most of your stay, check out:

• Our Charming Rooms
• The Azul Room
• Our Table d'Hôtes
• Our Other Sightseeing Tours
• Book Your Stay

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Useful links:

• Cloup d’Aural Phosphate Mines
• Auberge Lou Bourdié (Bach)
• Municipality of Concots

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