Got A Question?
Pink and blue evening skies over La Bergerie
Find the Answers
Our Frequently Asked Questions page is a hive of information that will help you quickly find the answers you need. To make the most of your stay, we have also included several resources that may provide additional details and guidance on activities close to La Bergerie. For all activities, make sure the instructors or guides speak your language before you book. More importantly, check that your travel insurance covers you in case of an accident. And finally, always do thorough research before parting with any hard-earned cash!
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Your Questions
Are there any recommended hiking trails in the area?
There are so many hiking trails in the Lot, over different lengths and for various abilities, it is difficult to know which ones to suggest. However, one trail that comes up frequently is in the Causses de Quercy National Park and called ‘In the Footsteps of André Breton’. It is rated No.1 in AllTrails.com 227 Hiking Trails in the Lot and each trail includes customer reviews, photos and a star-rating. There are a number of websites where you can filter on length, difficulty, and even whether they are wheelchair or dog friendly. Komoot.com is another useful site with similar filters.
We have also included a few Useful Apps further down the page.
Are there any cafes or restaurants close to La Bergerie gite that serve evening meals?
Opening hours and days will depend on the season, but there at least a dozen restaurants in nearby Puy L’Eveque serving lunchtime and evening meals. If you do a search and check out the reviews, we are sure you will find something to suit all tastes. You can also pop over to our Food & Wine web page to read some personal recommendations for dining out at the local chateaux.
Gite guests can purchase sweet treats and a range of savoury dishes from our online farm shop. Place your order online and we will arrange a mutually convenient time for your delivery. We also stock a limited selection of products at the Farm Gate Shop, with an ‘honesty box’ for payments.
Where are the nearest any golf courses to Duravel?
There are three 9-hole golf courses in the area: Le Neuf Golf at Bouysset, near Saint-Martin-le-Redon, is on a beautiful 15 hectare site, only 12 minutes away. You can play a round of golf or a few sets of tennis at Golf des Roucous, near Castelnau Montratier. This course is approx, 45 minutes drive and just over the boundary in the Tarn et Garonne region. And last but not least, there is Golf de Montal (1 hour 45 minutes).
All three courses offer the usual facilities, including club and trolley hire, clubhouse and pro-shop. They are all beautiful courses to play, with competitions held regularly at each club and visitors invited to join in.
Are there any restrictions or permits required for certain activities in the area?
For most water sports you have to be able to swim at least 25 metres and be comfortable going under water unaided. There may also be minimum age limits. Climbing may also have age and height restrictions. So we always recommend checking with the business, either via their website or by email. Also, unless on private land, if you want to go fishing on lakes or rivers you will need to buy a daily or weekly permit. These can be purchased online at www.cartedepeche.fr, or from local shops, such as the tabac or newsagent.
Fishing is also seasonal, depending on where you intend to cast a line. For public fishing, there are two seasons a year depending on the category of the waters. Dates change each year, so check the Lot fishing regulations at www.pechelot.com/la-reglementation-peche.
Is there anywhere to go rock climbing near Duravel?
The limestone cliffs in this region provide the ideal terrain for rock climbing. There are various activity centres which offer rock or tree climbing activities for all levels of experience and ability. It is a great way to get good, uninterrupted views of the countryside! Falaise Montcabrier is only an 8 minute drive and the main section is located along the D673 between Fumel and Gourdon. It can be climbed in summer and winter, but some areas are closed during the nesting season. Cahors Escalade rock climbing club is approx. 35 minute’s drive. They hold children’s and adult’s courses throughout the year, as well as climbing outings for experienced climbers. More details can be found for a number of other climbing areas on the Lot Tourism website.
Are there any guided tours or activities available for exploring the region?
There are, but it will depend on the type of tour, activity and duration. The Lot Tourist Office will be able to provide details of any guided tours. Private and group tours can last a couple of hours up to a whole day. Many of the local vineyards offer wine-tasting tours, plus there are cultural, themed and foodie tours available. If there is something in particular that you are interested in please get in touch and we will see if we can find something that meets your needs.
Where are the best places to go horseback riding?
One of the nearest to La Bergerie is 10 minutes away at Le Cheval Blanc, in Lacapelle-Cabanac. It has good reviews and offers accompanied horseback riding excursions of 2 hours, half-day or full day on different circuits, for riders or beginners. Rando La Fontaine (20 mins) also offers rides out of 1, 2 or 3 hours as well as a full day. They also have very good reviews. In addition, there are several riding schools in the local area, but they provide riding lessons, rather than rides out.
What are some popular outdoor activities in the Lot region of France?
The Lot is one of the best areas in France to visit and enjoy outdoor activities for all ages. Its rivers, forests, valleys and historic sites provide the perfect backdrop for a wide range of activities. We’ve got several specific Activities pages on our website which will hopefully give you ideas of what you might like to do during your stay.
What is the difference between kayaking and canoeing?
What are some of the best spots for water sports like kayaking or canoeing?
Canoeing and kayaking on the Lot River are popular holiday activities! There are lots of places where you can hire a canoe or kayak for a pleasant afternoon on the river and get close to nature. Bear in mind, that most water sports hire companies will ask you to confirm that you can swim. There may also be a minimum age requirement of 5 years. For more details about water sports in the area, check out our website page.
Are there any mountain biking routes nearby?
The Lot is a famous destination for mountain biking, with nearly 50 mountain bike routes, as well as the Tour du Lot. Locally, there are a number of signposted MTB routes (VTT Vélo tout-terrain in French) that you can pick up from Puy l’Évêque. Even within 10 miles (16 kms) there are over thirty trails, ranging from Easy to Expert. Check them out on Komoot.com : Nearest mountain bike routes
Useful Apps
These are simply suggestions, not recommendations, and they are in no particular order. Whatever your activity, do not rely solely on a smartphone app for mountain navigation. You should always carry a map and compass and know how to use them. Also, make sure you take our contact details with you.