Foulon lies in an area of attractive unspoilt rugged landscape between the upper Lot and Dordogne valleys which is now designated as "Le Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy".

The limestone geology of the region has produced a variety of scenic beauty, containing numerous mediaeval villages and towns, together with some superb chateaux - many set in dramatic locations.

The ancient name for the area is Quercy, which many believe to come from the Latin "Quercus" - an oak tree. Certainly there are a great number of oak trees in the area.

The countryside varies from the dry craggy countryside up on the causse, to the rich dark red soil and gently undulating countryside of the Bouriane to the north-west, to the wide, fertile cliff-lined valley that the River Lot has carved for itself.

Nearby, the limestone rock has been formed into numerous caves, some with with prehistoric cave paintings or spectacular rock formations. In the largest, the Gouffre de Padirac, you can take a boat trip on an underground river.

Above ground, the Dordogne, Lot and smaller Célé rivers provide opportunities for fishing, swimming, canoeing or, if you're feeling lazy, boat rides. The beautiful countryside offers a variety of walks - and you can always find a bar or restaurant to refresh yourselves afterwards.

If you enjoy eating out, then you are spoilt for choice. There are many restaurants where you can enjoy the renowned cuisine of the area, either inexpensively or in style. Local specialities include truffles, lamb, cabecou (a kind of goat's cheese), walnuts and duck - foie gras de canard is offered in many local restaurants and all good supermarkets. And (of course) there's the local wine: Vin de Cahors. It's a deep dark red which is sometimes described as "black wine".

A visit to the ancient city of Cahors, with its picturesque mediaeval bridge, narrow winding streets and bustling market is a must for most visitors. Cahors has been recognised by the French Government as "une Ville d'Art et d'Histoire", for the importance and quality of its heritage. In contrast, the little town of Rocamadour, clinging precariously to the cliff face below its monastery, is an important place of pilgrimage as well as an unforgettable sight, while the village of St Cirq Lapopie, perched high above the Lot river, is one of the major beauty spots of the region.

We provide details of many of the local attractions and restaurants at the house.

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