Beyond the Chateau, there is masses to see in this area of France
Do As Much Or As Little As You Want – the choice is yours
Horse riding is a wonderful way to see this beautiful rural area of Southern France, and there also many other activities to enjoy – walking, cycling, canoeing, fishing, golf, potholing, climbing, hang-gliding, paragliding, pleasure flights, hot air ballooning, boat trips – and of course, sampling the delicious French cuisine!
Despite all the activities, this is a peaceful region, where everything happens at a calm pace because that is the way of life here. So you can choose to do as much or as little as you like. There is time and space for everyone. You can be surrounded by as many people as you want, or totally alone – the choice is yours. One thing is for sure – this is the perfect place to relax and unwind – and recover your equilibrium!
Steeped in History
This region was originally part of Aquitaine – owned for many years by the British and ruled by one of the most outstanding women in history – Eleanor of Aquitaine 1122-1204. She was married to Henry II, and was the mother of one of our most famous Kings – Richard the Lionheart - who was born in France.
Since arriving we have, on several occasions, been met (quite benevolently) with the phrase, “We spent 100 years fighting you and still you come back!”.
The area has a long and turbulent history, including the 100 years war (1345–1453) (which began in Aquitaine); the Wars of Religion (1562-1685); and the Revolution (1789) - all of which have left their mark on the area. The Bastide at Carcassonne and the numerous Chateaux, built both by the French & the English, attest to this - as do the Bastides (fortified walled towns). Carcassonne is a stunning example where, once inside its walls, you can wander along the narrow streets and imagine yourself having been transported back through time.
Eat And Drink Like A Roi!
South West France is famous for its delicious cuisine, which uses the best and freshest local produce - ensuring a thriving market culture. At the heart of every town and village is the local market, where you can mingle with the local people and chat to the stall holders, who are delighted to offer advice on the best way to cook their produce. Having explored the many stalls, you can relax and refresh yourself at one of the pavement cafes, watching the world go by with a coffee or aperitif - before deciding where to eat.
Eating here is a culinary treat with local specialities including fois gras, many delicious dishes of duck and the unbelievable dessert – Pastis Cake...This consists of layer upon layer of filo pastry built up into something resembling a fairytale castle with apple, and a base absolutely swimming in liqueur – not for the faint hearted but truly an experience!
Chateau de Laumiere is just 4.5Km from Limogne en Quercy which, with Lalbenque, forms the heart of Truffle country. Known as black gold, truffles provide a memorable flavour to many dishes and a truly gastronomique experience is a large fluffy truffle omlette which, even if available, will not taste quite the same in any other part of the world.
We actually have a truffle oak wood at Laumiere but as yet are still waiting for Maisy (our Newfoundland) to sniff some out – watch this space!!
Restaurants and Bistros
There are several good restaurants close to Laumiere and more within 30 minutes drive, with prices to suit all pockets. Generally, you will eat very well for considerably less than you would pay in England. A few of our favourites are:
The Petit Folie – in the village only about a five minute walk from the Chateau. Very informal, it is run by a friendly Belgian couple who both speak excellent English and offer good, simple fare. Pizzas are very popular here and are all freshly made and cooked in a wood fired oven.
The Rince Cochon in about 4.5km away in Limogne, is again informal, with a bistro type atmosphere and offers very good, regional cooking.
The Epicurien in Villefranche, about 20km distance, is a smarter restaurant perfect a special meal – and serves excellent French cuisine with friendly service.
Superb Towns, Villages & Castles
There are myriad fascinating villages and towns for you to discover and we are happy to offer suggestions of places to visit within easy reach of Chateau de Laumiere. You’ll be spoilt for choice!
Towns:
Villefranche de Rouergue, Figeac and Cahors
Villages:
Saint-Cirq Lapopie, Rocamadour, St. Antonin de Noble Val (used in the filming of the movie ‘Charlotte Grey’ ), Najac, Belcastel, Bonaguil and Roquefort
This area is well known for its famous, ancient caves which contain some of the most important, early figurative drawings open to the public. The most well known is probably Pech Merle, but there is also Phosphatieres du Cloup d’Aural, Padirac, Cougnac (which has one of the finest cave ceilings in France) - and Roquefort (more for the cheese than history).
There are many beautiful gardens and parks offering a range of activities, or simply for an afternoon spent peacefully at ease. Walking on the limestone causse is a pleasant and interesting experience, and you'll discover the numerous little stone shepherd huts and the varied wildlife and fauna.
We actually have a truffle oak wood at Laumiere but as yet are still waiting for Maisy (our Newfoundland) to sniff some out – watch this space!!
