Cahors, Lot

Developed by an engineer called Frédéric Suisse the system uses the amazing power of the river to pump water from the fountain of the Chartreux, thus supplying Cahors with drinking water.

Spread over three levels this museums tells many stories of resistance efforts, concentration camps and the part the Cahors played in the liberation of France.

Built in the 14th century, the Valentré bridge is synonymous with the town of Cahors.

The cathedral in Cahors dates to the 11th century though it has undergone modifications over the centuries.

In a dining room graced with elegance and class, you can savour a meal while looking out to the surrounding Lay Valley, vineyards and Chateau gardens. Internationally renowned, the 1 michelin star restaurant serves up refined cuisine based on the superior produce of the region.

The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.

At the beginning of November, the Sauternes and Barsac Châteaux opens its doors for a weekend in which more than 50 estates welcome the public to sample their wines.

Just 5 minutes from Cahors, in Pradines, there are a multitude of activities on offer from acrobatic courses in the trees, to paintball, kayaking, hiking, orienteering and much much more.

Although just 25km this circular route from Rocamadour does cross some challenging terrain. Partly on river path and some parts on road, you will need to have some experience of cycling to enjoy this route fully.

This Voie Verte (greenway) has been created along the track of an old and now unused railway line.

This short stretch of Voie Verte (greenway) is perfect for families looking to stretch their legs in the Dordogne countryside, without having to conquer any hills climbs.

A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).

With stunning views over the Lot river and the town of Cahors this walk is worth it just to enjoy the views.

Part of a long distance towpath, there is an interesting section cut out of the rocky cliff face between Bouziès and Saint-Cirq Lapopie which was used to drag barges along the river Lot. It's about five kilometres between the two villages and is a stunning section of the river.

This walk is wonderful and relaxing way to explore the valley of Autoire and the horseshoe shaped cliff band that guards it to the south-west.

Following part of the GR6 route through the Dordogne this walk takes you from Lalinde on a circular route through the surrounding countryside.

A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).

Offering various routes along the Dordogne river to enjoy the sights of the Perigord Noir region. Discover hidden treasures during a relaxing journey down the river.

Enjoy a relaxing day close to nature as you canoe along the river and explore the waterways of this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

Enjoy a single or multi-day trip down the river Dordogne to town such as Beynac, Castelnaud, Montfort and Fayac.

Hire a canoe or kayak from this company and you can enjoy a gentle river cruise and the chance to explore the wonderful Dordogne river and its banks.

Situated at the foot of Carennac village this watersports centre offers more than just fun on the water! They offer three main activities; canoeing or kayaking, group canoeing with up to six people in the same boat, and adventure trekking with overnight camping out in the wild.

With family, in a group, with friends and at any age, you can explore at your own pace two of the most beautiful rivers of Périgord.

The undulating countryside north of the River Lot is dotted with chestnut woods and stone villages. In a tiny hamlet, close to the border with the Dordogne (3km), sits La Maison Fleurie, a picturesque stone cottage, adorned with pots of colourful flowers.

A haven of tranquillity, Lou Calvel sits within private woodland in the picturesque Lot region of South West France where the densely forested landscape teems with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Hedgerows of bluebells, posies and colourful orchids provide both walkers and keen photographers with much to admire while local market stalls always offer a wealth of freshly harvested, seasonal produce including asparagus, herbs and a wide variety of wild mushrooms.

A restorative, rural retreat is the most befitting way to describe Tourondel. Tucked away on a hillside in the glorious Lot countryside, it is a bolthole for those wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, an open invitation to relax, drink in the views and enjoy the peaceful sounds of nature.

The Chateau has unbeatable views of the surrounding Lot valley and vineyards. The bedrooms throughout are lavishly decorated with style, class and comfort in mind. A beautiful park surrounds the property and contains a swimming pool, two tennis courts and stunning cedar trees.

Just a 5 minute walk to the centre of Cahors and with stunning views of the river and countryside, this is an ideal spot from which to explore. The hotel features a large outdoor pool and restaurant, along with 50 bedrooms which were recently refurbished in 2011.