Discover the local colour and rich history of this unique and fascinating part of France.

Wine tasting tour. An afternoon of wine tasting at two of Cahors most renown vineyards, followed by the opportunity to buy from two other vineyards at their shop in Puy l’Évêque. Sally, your local guide will also introduce you to the fascinating history of the local wine. Valued at the courts of the Plantagenets and the Tsars, its reputation was truly international long before Bordeaux could claim the same status.

Sightseeing opportunities in the Lot are too numerous to mention them all. The area is steeped in history, from the massacre of the Cathars, English domination under Henry II who was married to Eleanor of Aquitaine, to the Hundred Years war. Here is a selection of recommended excursions to some of the fascinating places of interest to be found in this remarkable part of south-west France, which you can either make independently if you have your own transport or guided (full details of all of the guided tours are available at the centre):

Pech Merle. One of the most important and largest Palaeolithic caves in Europe with images and paintings between 18,000 and 40,000 years old. Totally magical!

Include a visit to the nearby medieval village of St Cirq- Lapopie, "one of the most beautiful places in the world", built on a precipice with a commanding view over the river Lot.

Chateau de Bonaguil. Lawrence of Arabia said of this impressive castle dating from the 13th century "It is so perfect that it seems ridiculous to call it a ruin". Explore the mystery of the castle caught between the bright light of the Renaissance and the shadows of earlier times.

Chateau de Biron. Construction work on this Chateau was started in the 11th century and the building gradually evolved over the centuries. The grounds contain a restored Renaissance chapel and a guardhouse which have fabulous views over the village below.

Cahors. Explore the old cathedral quarter of this fascinating medieval capital city with its myriad of narrow streets, almost completely encompassed by the river Lot. Visit the open market in the shadow of the famous domed cathedral, or learn the legend of the famous Devil's Bridge, the Pont Valentré, the oldest fortified bridge in Europe.

Rocamadour. One of the most important pilgrimage sites in Europe and one of the most spectacular villages in France. Built into the cliff on three levels, with the castle on top, the church and religious area half way down, and the village nearly 200 metres below the castle. Nearby the Gouffre de Padirac is a natural abyss or chasm over 100 metres deep. Visitors can take a series of lifts or the stairs to the bottom. A 500 metre boat ride is followed by a tour of the caves, which features lots of interesting rock formations and pools, the centre piece being The Grand Dome, a vast open chamber.

Cave painting at Peche Merle

St Cirq-Lapopie

Chateau de Bonaguil

Chateau de Biron

Pont Valentré, Cahors