Across Occitania Scenic Drive

Take a journey through the beautiful Occitania region of France on the Across Occitania Scenic Drive! This 168 km route begins in Montauban and ends in Figeac, taking you through the stunning towns of Cahors, Montcuq, and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. The best time to take this drive is between April and October, when you can enjoy the mild weather and breathtaking landscapes. On your journey, you'll come across a number of historical sites, including the 12th century Cahors Cathedral and the ruins of Château de Montcuq. You'll also get to witness the stunning valleys and rivers of the Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, and Dordogne regions. The roads along the route are mostly in good condition, although some parts may be curvy or narrow. Overall, the Across Occitania Scenic Drive is an excellent way to experience the beauty of this region. It's suitable for all drivers, and can be managed with a moderate budget. With its stunning sights and memories, it's sure to provide you with a high level of satisfaction.

Montauban is a charming town in the south of France, located in the Tarn-et-Garonne department of the Occitanie region. It is the perfect starting point for the "Across Occitania Scenic Drive" road trip. Here, travelers can explore the town's rich history and culture, including its many monuments and picturesque streets. The old town of Montauban is full of interesting sights to explore. The Place Nationale is the town's main square, surrounded by arcades and filled with cafés and restaurants. The Place de la République is a beautiful park with fountains, a pond, and plenty of shade trees. The magnificent Saint Jacques Church and the Château de Montauban are also worth a visit. For travelers arriving by air, the nearest international airport is Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (IATA: TLS). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the "Across Occitania Scenic Drive" road trip. Montauban is a great starting point for a road trip to explore the beautiful Occitanie region. From here, travelers can discover the area's rich history and culture, as well as its many monuments, parks, and cafés. So, come to Montauban and start your journey across Occitania.

Take a road trip through the beautiful French countryside, starting in Montauban and ending in Cahors, a journey of 86 km that can be completed in less than 2 hours. Enjoy the scenery as you drive through Caussade and Montpezat de Quercy, and take a break to visit the historical sites in these locations. The road is narrow in sections, so pay attention and take your time. As you make your way to Cahors, you will find plenty of attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the way. For more information, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy the journey!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Cahors to Figeac, taking you through the stunning Saint Cirq Lapopie! This 82 km journey takes less than two hours, and the winding roads will lead you through some of the most beautiful and historically significant sites in the region. As you drive, keep an eye out for the narrow roads, and the scenic views of the countryside. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore the stunning village of Saint Cirq Lapopie, with its cobbled streets and medieval architecture. Make sure you take the time to admire the stunning views of the Lot Valley from the top of the hill. You'll also have the chance to visit the Figeac Town Hall, the Church of Notre-Dame-du-Puy, and the Figeac Archaeological Museum. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Have an incredible journey!

Figeac is a charming town located in the Lot Valley, in the South-West of France. This town is the ideal ending point for the "Across Occitania Scenic Drive" road trip. Figeac is a lively, vibrant town full of history and culture. Here you will find a variety of interesting places to visit, such as the Chapelle des Pénitents, the Church of Saint-Sauveur, the Château de Figeac, the Musée Champollion and the Maison de la Tour de Figeac. The Chapelle des Pénitents is a small, picturesque chapel located in the center of the town, with a lovely garden and a beautiful fountain. The Church of Saint-Sauveur is one of the oldest churches in the region, built in the 12th century. The Château de Figeac is a historical castle, built in the 11th century, which is now open to the public. The Musée Champollion is dedicated to the famous linguist and Egyptologist, Jean-François Champollion, who was born in Figeac in 1790. Finally, the Maison de la Tour de Figeac is an impressive tower located in the center of the town, built in the 12th century. The closest international airport to Figeac is Brive-Souillac Airport (BVE), located about 79 km away. The "Across Occitania Scenic Drive" road trip ends here, in Figeac, where travelers can explore its historical and cultural sites. Without a doubt, this is the perfect destination to conclude your journey.

Before you set off

Set off on a captivating 168 km journey with the Across Occitania Scenic Drive, which weaves from the historic city of Montauban to the medieval town of Figeac in the picturesque Occitania region of southern France. This route is not only a feast for the eyes but also a passage through time, as you'll encounter a tapestry of historical landmarks set against the backdrop of France's alluring natural landscapes. As you traverse rolling hills, lush river valleys, and quaint villages, you'll experience the region's rich cultural tapestry and its storied past.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Montauban: Begin your Road Trip here, with its impressive 17th-century bridge, Pont Vieux, and the Ingres Museum, housed in a former episcopal palace.
• Cahors: Known for its robust red wine, Cahors is also home to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Pont Valentré, a fortified stone arch bridge.
• Montcuq: Dive into history at the ruins of Château de Montcuq, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: Voted one of France's most beautiful villages, perched above the Lot River, it's an idyllic stop with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture.
• Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, and Dordogne regions: Travel through these areas known for their stunning river valleys, including the picturesque landscapes along the Dordogne River, which has been shaping the area for millennia.

Best Time to Go:

Travel between April and October to enjoy the mild to warm climate, perfect for exploring the outdoor beauty and historical sites Occitania has to offer.

Potential Risks:

Drivers should be attentive when navigating the occasionally winding or narrow Roads, particularly in hilly or rural areas, to ensure a safe journey.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• This Scenic Drive is part of the larger Routes of Santiago de Compostela network, a collection of pilgrim routes that converge in northwestern Spain.
• Occitania is a gastronomic delight, offering specialties like cassoulet, foie gras, and truffles, perfect for foodies wishing to indulge in local cuisine.
• The region is steeped in legends, including tales of the Cathars, a medieval religious sect that left behind fortified castles and a legacy shrouded in mystery.

A good choice for:

The Across Occitania Scenic Drive is not merely a Road Trip; it is an immersive journey through the heart of France. Whether you’re captivated by the allure of bygone eras, the tranquility of river valleys, or the charm of rural France, this route promises a rich blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty that is sure to leave a lasting impression on those who traverse its path.