Visit Lot-et-Garonne
Visit Lot-et-Garonne is a department in the south-west of France, located in the New Aquitainerich in historical heritage, varied landscapes and gastronomic traditions. Bordered by the departments of Lot, Dordogne, Gironde, Landes, Gers and Tarn-et-Garonne, it offers a multitude of discoveries for visitors in search of authenticity and diversity.
Must-see tourist sites in Lot-et-Garonne
Lot-et-Garonne is dotted with historic and cultural sites that bear witness to its rich past. Here is a selection of places not to be missed.
Medieval fortified towns
Monflanquin : Listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", Monflanquin is a 13thᵉ century bastide perched on a hill with panoramic views over the valley. Its cobbled streets and half-timbered houses immerse visitors in an authentic medieval atmosphere.
Villeréal : This bastide is renowned for its XIVᵉ century wooden market hall, still used for local markets. The arcaded houses surrounding the central square add to the charm of this picturesque village.
Emblematic castles
Bonaguil Castle : Considered one of France's most beautiful castles, Bonaguil is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Its imposing towers and well-preserved ramparts take you back in time.
Duras Castle : Situated on a hill, this château offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards. Its rich history and numerous rooms open to visitors make it a must-see for heritage enthusiasts.
Picturesque villages
Pujols : Perched high above Villeneuve-sur-Lot, Pujols is a medieval village offering exceptional panoramic views. Its stone houses and flower-filled gardens appeal to visitors seeking tranquillity.
Penne-d'Agenais : This historic village is dominated by the Notre-Dame de Peyragude basilica. Its steep streets and craftsmen's workshops make it a place full of charm and authenticity.
Landscapes and towns in Lot-et-Garonne
The Lot-et-Garonne region is distinguished by the diversity of its landscapes, combining lush green valleys, peaceful rivers and dynamic towns.
Valleys and streams
Lot Valley : This valley offers bucolic landscapes, with orchards, vineyards and picturesque villages along the River Lot. Water sports such as canoeing and river cruises are very popular.
Garonne Canal : An extension of the Canal du Midi, it crosses the département and offers an ideal greenway for cycling or walking, in the shade of century-old plane trees.
The main cities
Agen : Prefecture of the département, Agen is famous for its prunes and its rich historical heritage. The town is home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, housed in four private mansions, and the Pont-Canal d'Agen, an impressive structure that allows the Canal de Garonne to cross the Garonne.
Villeneuve-sur-Lot : This bastide town, founded in the XIIIᵉ century, is crossed by the River Lot. Its historic center, with its half-timbered houses and ancient bridges, bears witness to its flourishing past.
Neighbouring regions and departments
Lot-et-Garonne is surrounded by regions and departments offering interesting cultural and geographical continuity.
Périgord (Dordogne)
To the north, the Périgord is renowned for its prehistoric sites, castles and gastronomy, notably foie gras and truffles. Exchanges between Lot-et-Garonne and Périgord are numerous, both culturally and gastronomically.
Les Landes
To the west, the Landes offer vast pine forests and ocean beaches. This proximity allows residents of Lot-et-Garonne to take advantage of seaside activities, and the Landes to discover the riches of the interior.
Visit Gers
To the south, Gers, the heart of Gascony, shares a rich gastronomic tradition with Lot-et-Garonne, with products such as Armagnac, foie gras and duck confit. Local festivals and markets reinforce the links between these two departments.
