Activities not to be missed on your family cruise on the River Lot
Looking for an original family getaway for your next holiday? Look no further than a licence-free boat cruise on the River Lot! Imagine yourself navigating the peaceful waters of the Lot, surrounded by picturesque landscapes and charming villages. When it comes to things to do along the way, we've put together a selection just for you!
Are we off? Let's get started with the activities not to be missed during your cruise on the River Lot.
A hike to soak up the region
The Lot is full of breathtaking scenery, and what better way to discover it than on foot? Leave your houseboat behind, slip on your hiking boots and set off on an adventure along the Lot's footpaths. We've selected 3 family-friendly walks that will help you discover the green hills and natural beauty of the region.
1 - The towpath between Saint-Cirq Lapopie and Bouziès
3h / Round trip 8km / Accessible on foot, mountain bike and all-terrain pushchair
The towpath from Bouziès to Saint-Cirq Lapopie is a charming walk along the river, cut into the rock, offering a magnificent view of the countryside. You can start the walk from the Saint-Cirq Lapopie boat stop or from the Bouziès port.
During your walk, you'll enter a tunnel and be able to admire that the stone is sculpted over a distance of around 300 metres by the famous sculptor Daniel Monnier. It's surprising to see such a work of art in the middle of nature, discreetly hidden in the rock, and it's only by walking past that you can admire it. If you don't want to do the hike, you can still admire this masterpiece from your houseboat.
2 - Interpretation trail - On the heights of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
1h 30 / 3.3km / On foot / Easy
For this walk, take your mobile phone and go to the "Circuits Lot et Dordogne" application and find the walk "Sur les Hauteurs de Saint-Cirq-Lapopie". All you have to do is discover the natural heritage of the Causses du Quercy and enjoy an unusual view of the village of St Cirq Lapopie.
3 - Mont St Cyr and its many panoramic views over Cahors
2h / 5.7 km / On foot / Moderate
This hike, with little change in altitude and no particular difficulty, is suitable for families with children. You'll walk quietly through the hills until you reach Mont St Cyr. Once at the top, enjoy the beauty of the region and the many panoramic views over Cahors. We recommend a picnic in front of the view, a real moment of relaxation before heading back down.
Particular difficulties: Beware of slippery paths in wet weather. Several paths are signposted, but we strongly advise you to follow the yellow PR (Promenade et Randonnée) markings.
Water activities for all ages
There's plenty to do in the water on your cruise on the Lot. What better way to cool off and have fun as a family? We recommend the beaches of Caïx and Douelle, renowned for their unspoilt natural setting and clear waters. And if you're looking for adventure, you can hire a canoe or paddle at Caïx. So get your swimwear ready and enjoy a day of relaxation and fun by the water.
Just 10 minutes from Caillac (30 minutes by bike) is the Aquapark - Lac Vert de Catus. Here you'll find a wide choice of activities, and you can enjoy a unique setting in a protected natural environment on the banks of the Lac Vert. On land or in the water, choose the activity that suits you best, and the inflatables will appeal to young and old alike! Open from July to August, Monday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm.
In Cahors, on the island of Cabessut, a host of activities for children and families await you. You'll find a completely safe area, with inflatables, a sandpit and entertainment. For older children, there's a petanque pitch, picnic area, deckchairs and a shaded area. For the more adventurous, there are footbridges in the trees and a zip line. Open from July to August, Monday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm.
Fishing and relaxing by the water
If you love fishing, the Lot is the place to be. Just sit back, cast your line and wait for the fish to take the bait. With its fish-rich waters, you could well catch the catch of your life! And even if you're not a fishing enthusiast, there's nothing to stop you relaxing by the water with a good book in your hand or enjoying a delicious family picnic.
Discover the Lot in a different way on horseback
And finally, if you'd like to discover the Lot region in a more original way, we recommend horse-riding or donkey-riding. If you'd like to explore the Lot valley and vineyards, you can hire a donkey from Entr'Ânes in Luzech, or go to the Club hippique de Quercy or the Centre Equestre l'Etrier in Cahors.
We hope these activities have inspired you to take a licence-free boat trip on the River Lot. If you fancy some more licence-free boating inspiration, you can choose between a navigation towards Luzech or Saint-Cirq-Lapopie.
