It is a pity that the Quercy region (and perhaps even the South-West in general) is not well known by our neighbour Europeans.
We are going to dedicate a few articles on it. This time, we will only focus on a few gems that can be found in a 10km circle around L’Annicha. All these destinations can be reached by bike, but be aware that the region has some steep slopes. Along the way, you will see magnificent landscapes, historical monuments as well as the typical dovecotes. You will also be charmed by the friendliness of the locals.
Let's start in the village of Montpezat-de-Quercy: we cannot mention Montpezat without talking about the Collegiate Church of St-Martin. It is the flagship monument of the village, imposing and visible for miles around. This 14th century building houses a Flemish tapestry dating from the early 16th century. The tapestry represents the life of Saint Martin of Tours. Behind the church is the College of Canons.
Did you know that the village of Montpezat-de-Quercy is protected under the AVAP (Area for the Development of Architecture and Heritage) and that as such, each building permit is verified by an architect of the buildings of France? The town hall square is very beautiful with its period half-timbering. Strolling through its small alleys is a real pleasure, because behind every corner you will discover a small square or a medieval house. On the ramparts, there are magnificent houses, grandiose by their size and especially their charm. Some call it the "Gold Coast" of Montpezat 😉
In the countryside lays the Church of Notre-Dame de Saux. A 14th and 16th century building with magnificent frescoes. To visit, you will need to ask the tourist office for the key or join a guided tour.
If a swim in nature tempts you more than a historical visit, why not go to the Lac Vert? It is an old quarry which, in summer, is invaded by locals looking for a bit of freshness. In winter, it is a destination for a walk in the fresh air.
Or if you prefer panoramic views, we advise you to go to the hill of Montalzat, towards the water tower to admire the landscape and the horizon that covers the Caussadais country, the Causses du Lot and, good visibility permitting, even the Pyrenees. If you compare it to the view from your room, I don't know which one will be the most beautiful….
In the past, the region had a lot of wine cellars, even our house had one, until the 1980s. Today, there are fewer vineyards, but there are still several in the territory of the municipality and the surrounding municipalities, all of which fall under the AOC Coteaux du Quercy. Moreover, each year, the Coteaux du Quercy wine festival is held alternately in one of the villages of the appellation. We are not going to try to list all the wineries here, because we may forget some. On the other hand, we invite you to go and taste their good wines at their homes.
Would you allow yourself to exceed the 10km limit, the charming little town of Caussade with its shops and its hat museum will certainly please you. You can also go to Castelnau-Montratier, with its impressive church located on a hill (beware of the ascent by bike), as well as its pleasant village.
You see, even by bike, without getting too tired, you can spend a few days with us, and still discover new highlights.