Lot Property Guide

For buying and selling property in Lot

A hidden treasure

The Lot department, in the north of the Midi-Pyrénées, makes up much of the western part of the Massif Central mountain range. Foreign buyers and visitors have been increasingly drawn to the area in recent years thanks to its improved accessibility. The department is largely untouched with historical gems hidden among its fantastic landscapes. Keep your ears open and you may hear people speaking in the ancient Provençal language of Occitan.

Cahors: a natural fortress

The capital of the Lot is Cahors with a population of just over 21,000. The laid back way of life here reflects the relaxed atmosphere in the rest of the department. Cahors is surrounded by rivers on three sides whilst rolling hills form a natural boundary on the fourth side. There is a great deal of spectacular medieval architecture on display in Cahors, both in its buildings and in the wonderfully preserved bridges that cross its rivers.

Artistic inspiration

The Parc Naturel Regional des Causses covers a large proportion of the department. The main places of interest lie along the Lot River so why not charter a boat and leave the car behind? St Cirq Lapopie is one such village that you mustn't miss. It's perched on the edge of a cliff overhanging the Lot valley. The immense natural beauty of the area is complimented by the charming buildings and ancient ruins that make up this town. A few notable writers and poets have featured the town in their work. The French surrealist, André Breton, remarked that he 'no longer [had] any desire to be anywhere else'.

Rocamadour - perched on a cliff

Another favourite is Rocamadour, which is again situated in what looks like a precarious position on a cliff-top. In the past, pilgrims making their way to Compostella used the town as a stop off point. Today, visitors arrive from all over the world to take in the breathtaking views.

Subterranean sailing

If you travel 15km to the north-east of Rocamadour, you'll discover the Padirac cave. Deep inside you'll be able to sail along the world's only underground river.

Ancient artistic talent

In the north-east of the department is Gourdon, the historical capital of the Bouriane region. It is positioned on the gentle slopes leading down to the Dordogne river and contains a number of medieval buildings. In the vicinity you'll be able to explore decorated prehistoric caves.

How to get there

The department is quite easy to access from the UK. Rodez is serviced by Ryanair, who run regular flights from London Stansted. You could also get to Toulouse, either by air or the superfast TGV train service and then travel via the region's own rail network. Flying to Limoges in the Limousin region is another option.

What about the property prices and availability?

The department has become very popular with international buyers, particularly families and retirees. Property prices are above average, although there is still a wide range of houses available. The rental market has become more active in recent years with tourism playing an increasingly important part in the local economy.