Towpath Bouziès - St Cirq

A charming walk along the towpath at Bouziès

Hello everyone! There's a walk that I absolutely recommend to anyone staying in our region House Swap Cabrerets The towpath at Bouziès. This incredible path, carved into the cliffs and bordered by the River Lot, is a little wonder to be discovered at your own pace.

Follow me as I explain everything!

A walk through history and sculpture

The towpath has a fascinating history. In the 19th century, it was used by the horses that pulled the gabares (flat-bottomed boats) up the Lot to transport goods upstream.

These boats could come all the way from Bordeaux to Decazeville in Aveyron! They were loaded with a variety of goods: materials such as sand and wood, but also cereals and wine...

The path sheltered in the cliffs begins around 600 metres from the car park and the start of the walk. It was dug between 1843 and 1847.

The icing on the cake? An incredible fresco, carved directly into the rock by Toulouse artist Daniel Monnier, depicts the river and surrounding nature.

The Ganil lock

After a 20-minute walk, you'll reach the Ganil lock.

Built in the early 19th century, this manual lock allows you to navigate the Lot. It is used by cruises from St Cirq Lapopie and other boats, as the Lot has been equipped for pleasure boating since 1990.

A plunge into nature and an easy walk for everyone

This path is also an opportunity to switch off and enjoy unspoilt nature. The Lot meandering peacefully by, the majestic cliffs, the birdsong... Everything you need for a serene walk. And if you like taking photos, get ready to capture some magnificent landscapes.

You don't have to be a great sportsman to enjoy this trail. With less than 4 km between Bouziès and Saint-Cirq-LapopieIt's a walk that's accessible to everyone, even children. The path is flat and pleasant, but remember to take good shoes and a bottle of water, especially if it's hot.

Practical information for a successful outing

• How do I get there? From Cabrerets, it's a 10-minute drive to Bouziès. Cross the metal suspension bridge.

• Where can I park? Meet at the car park (GPS point) near the Croisières pier in St Cirq Lapopie, where you can leave your vehicle. During the high season, don't forget to pay for parking before setting off on your trip!

• Services You'll find the following on the parking area public toilets. You'll also find a little fast-food restaurantsas well as picnic tables and stretches of lawn.

• For how long?
  • To Ganil lock Approx. 20 mins.
  • To St Cirq Lapopie Allow around 1? hours to cover just under 4 km (one way), with a short break and the final climb to St Cirq. For the return journey, cheat a little and take a cruise (book in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises): you'll be able to admire the rock carved out of the river!