Experience the Lot & Beyond
Experience the Lot
Discover the simple pleasures of South West France
The true beauty of the Lot Valley isn't only found in the places you visit—it's found in the moments you experience.
A peaceful paddle along the river. An afternoon discovering an unexpected work of art. Exploring a medieval château. Sharing a picnic of fresh bread, local cheese and local wine. Watching thousands of stars appear above the Domaine.
These are the experiences that our guests remember long after they've returned home.
Rather than listing everything there is to do, we've simply chosen the places we genuinely enjoy ourselves and are delighted to recommend.
Life On the River
Base Nautilus
Castelmoron-sur-Lot
Hire a canoe or paddle boat and explore the peaceful River Lot at your own pace. Suitable for couples, families and solo travellers alike.
Our Experience: Whenever friends or family come to stay, this is often one of the first places we recommend. The river is calm, the scenery is beautiful and it's one of the most relaxing ways to spend a summer afternoon.
Visitor Information
Distance: 5-minute walk
Telephone: +33 (0)6 75 28 92 69
Email: basenatique.nautilius@gmail.com
Our Recommendation: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon when the river is quieter, then return to the Domaine for a swim or a glass of wine in the garden.
Fishing on the River Lot
The River Lot is one of South West France's most rewarding fishing destinations, attracting anglers from across Europe throughout the year.
Whether you enjoy a quiet morning float fishing from the bank or are hoping to catch one of the river's famous predator fish, the peaceful waters around Castelmoron-sur-Lot offer an unforgettable setting.
Species commonly found include carp, pike, zander (pike-perch), perch, black bass, catfish, roach and bream.
No matter your level of experience, fishing here is as much about enjoying the tranquillity of the river as it is about the catch.
Our Experience: One of the loveliest sights is watching the mist rise gently from the river at sunrise while anglers quietly wait for the day to begin. Even if you don't fish yourself, it's a beautiful part of life along the River Lot.
Visitor Information
Distance: 5-minute walk from the Domaine
Fishing Permit (Carte de Pêche): A valid French fishing permit is required and can easily be purchased online or from participating local retailers.
Local Information: We're happy to advise on nearby fishing spots and where to obtain your fishing permit during your stay.
Our Recommendation: Early morning and late evening are often the most peaceful times to fish, particularly during the warmer months. Don't forget to bring a camera—the sunrise over the River Lot can be just as memorable as the day's catch.
Carp Fishing Adventures with LOT-EXPERIENCE
Castelmoron-sur-Lot & the River Lot
For serious carp anglers looking for something a little more adventurous, LOT-EXPERIENCE offers fully equipped boat-fishing holidays on the beautiful River Lot.
Their specially equipped fishing boats allow anglers to explore different stretches of the river and discover some of the excellent carp fishing for which the Lot has become known. Boats operating on the lower section of the river depart from Port Lalande in Castelmoron-sur-Lot, conveniently close to the Domaine.
This is particularly suited to experienced or enthusiastic anglers looking for a dedicated fishing adventure rather than simply a few hours by the river.
And if only one of you is passionate about fishing? Even better. While one disappears happily onto the Lot in search of the perfect carp, the other can enjoy the pool, gardens, markets and villages—or simply a peaceful day doing absolutely nothing. Everyone wins.
Our Recommendation: A wonderful option for keen carp anglers planning a longer stay in the Lot Valley. LOT-EXPERIENCE specialises in multi-day fishing adventures, so we recommend contacting them well in advance to discuss availability and the most suitable option for your stay.
Visitor Information
Departure: Port Lalande, Castelmoron-sur-Lot
Telephone: +33 (0)6 26 64 88 60
Website: LOT-EXPERIENCE
Private Fishing with Mickaël Weill
Guide de Pêche Sud Ouest – Clairac (Large panoramic photograph of an angler fishing at sunrise on the River Lot)
For those wishing to discover the River Lot with an expert, we highly recommend spending a day with local fishing guide Mickaël Weill.
A qualified guide with more than 20 years of experience, Mickaël specialises in predator fishing and black bass on the River Lot. Whether you're a complete beginner, an experienced angler or a family looking to try something new, he'll tailor the day to suit your level and help you discover some of the river's best fishing spots.
Fully equipped guided trips are available aboard his modern bass boat, with all the equipment provided if required.
Our Experience: The River Lot is renowned for its exceptional fishing, and there's no better way to discover it than with someone who knows every bend of the river. A guided day with Mickaël offers not only great fishing but also a deeper appreciation of the wildlife, landscapes and peaceful rhythm of the Lot Valley.
Visitor Information
Distance: Approximately 10 minutes from the Domaine
Telephone: +33 (0)6 73 91 05 87
Website: guidedepechesudouest.com
Our Recommendation: Whether you're hoping to catch black bass, pike, zander or simply enjoy a peaceful day on the water, booking a guided trip is a wonderful way to experience the River Lot like a loca
Les Croisières du Lot
Castelmoron-sur-Lot
Enjoy a leisurely cruise along one of France's most beautiful rivers and discover the Lot Valley from the water.
Our Experience: Our favourite departure is the evening cruise, when the golden light reflects beautifully across the river.
Visitor Information
Distance: 5-minute walk
Telephone: +33 (0)7 78 11 16 50
Email: contact@lescroisieresdulot.fr
Our Recommendation: Perfect for a warm summer evening.
Culture & Heritage
Maison PARRA
Marmande
A remarkable artistic house full of imagination, colour and creativity. Every room offers something unexpected.
Our Experience: One of the most unique places we've discovered in the region.
Visitor Information
Distance: 35 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)6 03 15 42 58
Our Recommendation: Allow plenty of time—you'll want to explore every room.
Château de Bonaguil
Saint-Front-sur-Lémance
One of France's finest medieval fortresses, complete with towers, drawbridges and underground passages. A wonderful day out for both adults and children.
Our Experience: Every visit reveals another hidden corner. It really does feel like stepping back into the Middle Ages.
Visitor Information
Distance: 50 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)5 53 41 90 71
Website: https://www.chateau-bonaguil.com
Our Recommendation: Allow at least half a day and wear comfortable shoes.
Château de Duras
Duras
Standing proudly above the town of Duras, this château combines medieval history with elegant Renaissance architecture and wonderful panoramic views.
Our Experience: The terraces offer some of the finest views in the area.
Visitor Information
Distance: 50 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)5 33 14 00 38
Website: https://chateau-de-duras.com/
Our Recommendation: Combine your visit with lunch in the village.
Family Adventures
Grottes de Fontirou
Castella
Step beneath the hills of Lot-et-Garonne into a fascinating underground world of limestone formations, crystal-like concretions and cool caverns. Guided tours last around 45 minutes and the site also has a picnic area and mini-golf.
Our Experience: A brilliant escape on hot summer days—the caves stay pleasantly cool all year round.
Visitor Information
Distance: 35 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)6 32 92 99 13
Website: https://z-animoland.com/attractions/
Our Recommendation: Take a light jacket—even in August the caves are around 14°C.
Parc en Ciel
Lacapelle-Biron
Set among the trees in the beautiful countryside near Lacapelle-Biron, Parc en Ciel is a wonderful outdoor adventure park with tree-top courses, zip lines and challenges for different ages and abilities.
There's plenty to make a day of it, with mini-golf, disc golf, orienteering, picnic areas and a natural swimming pool—particularly welcome after a few hours climbing through the trees.
It's a great choice for families, or simply for adults who haven't entirely grown out of climbing trees.
Our Experience: A fun way to spend a few hours surrounded by nature, particularly for families looking for something a little more active during their stay.
Visitor Information
Distance: Approximately 50 minutes from the Domaine
Telephone: +33 (0)7 72 20 11 10
Website: Parc en Ciel
Our Recommendation: Allow several hours and take your swimming things in summer. Wear comfortable clothes and proper closed shoes—and perhaps don't challenge the children to a race unless you're absolutely certain you can win.
Happy Forest
Pont-du-Casse
An exciting woodland adventure park with tree-top courses, zip lines, mini golf and activities for children, teenagers and adults alike.
Our Experience: The woodland setting makes it feel much more natural than a typical adventure park.
Visitor Information
Distance: 30 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)5 53 47 25 44
Website: https://www.happyforest.fr/
Our Recommendation: Wear trainers and plan to stay for several hours.
Walygator Sud-Ouest
Roquefort
Rollercoasters, family rides, water attractions and entertainment make this the perfect destination for families looking for a full day of excitement.
Our Experience
A great option if the children are looking for a little more adventure during their holiday.
Visitor Information
Distance: 40 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)5 53 96 58 32
Website: https://www.walygatorparc.com/sudouest/
Our Recommendation: Visit on a weekday if possible for a more relaxed experience.
Simple Pleasures
Fromagerie Baechler
Le Temple-sur-Lot
One of our favourite local shops, offering wonderful regional cheeses, butter, cream and artisan specialities.
Our Experience: Many of the cheese boards we enjoy at the Domaine begin with a visit here.
Visitor Information
Distance: 5 minutes
Telephone: +33 (0)5 53 84 90 48
Website: https://fromagerie-baechler.com/
Our Recommendation: Buy three local cheeses, a fresh baguette and a bottle of local wine for the perfect riverside picnic.
Cycling in the Lot Valley
With quiet country roads, riverside routes and beautiful scenery, the Lot Valley is a wonderful place to explore by bicycle.
The Vallée du Lot à Vélo follows the river through orchards, vineyards, bastides and picturesque villages, while the nearby Canal des 2 Mers à Vélo offers a peaceful greenway along the Canal de Garonne—particularly lovely for an easy, leisurely ride.
Whether you're a keen cyclist planning a full day's adventure or simply fancy a gentle ride through the countryside, there are routes to suit almost everyone.
Our Experience: Cycling is one of the loveliest ways to appreciate this part of France. You travel slowly enough to notice the little things—the orchards, old stone houses, river views and villages you might otherwise drive straight past.
Visitor Information
Routes: Vallée du Lot à Vélo and Canal des 2 Mers à Vélo
Suitable for: Leisurely rides, families and more experienced cyclists
Bicycle Storage: Secure bicycle storage is available at the Domaine
Our Recommendation: Set off in the morning while it's still cool, stop somewhere lovely for coffee or lunch and take your time coming home. This is the Lot Valley—there really is no need to rush.
A Little Adventure
Quad-Bike Adventures
Cauzac: For guests looking for a little more adventure, D Quads D Jets offers guided quad-bike tours through the beautiful countryside of Lot-et-Garonne.
Choose from different routes and experiences, from a one-hour introduction to longer half-day and full-day adventures. Tours are accompanied by an instructor, with the quad, fuel and equipment provided, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure.
It's a fun way to discover another side of the local countryside, following rural tracks and trails away from the usual tourist routes.
Our Recommendation: We think the two-hour tour is a great option—long enough to really enjoy the experience and explore the countryside without taking up your entire day.
And after all that adventure, returning to the peace of the Domaine and a dip in the pool may feel particularly well deserved.
Visitor Information
Location: Cauzac
Telephone: +33 (0)6 08 52 58 24
Booking: Advance reservation recommended
Website: D Quads D Jets
Walking from the Domaine
Some of the best experiences require no planning at all. Simply step outside the gates and enjoy peaceful country lanes, riverside paths and beautiful countryside.
Our Recommendation: Leave your phone behind and simply enjoy the silence.
Stargazing at the Domaine
Away from city lights, the skies above Domaine La Gazaille de Camille are wonderfully dark, making them perfect for stargazing.
Our Recommendation: Wrap yourself in a blanket, pour a glass of local wine and enjoy one of the quietest evenings you'll ever experience.
Need a Recommendation?
We're always delighted to help you discover the Lot Valley through local knowledge and personal recommendations.
Whether you're looking for the perfect picnic spot, a hidden restaurant, a scenic drive or advice on booking an activity, we're here to help make your stay truly memorable.