WHAT

In the grounds we have an under lit salt water swimming pool 12m x 6m which is in full sun all day and is surrounded by a large terrace with plenty of room for sunbathing.

We also have a boules/petanque pitch and there is a large open area away from the trees for ball games.

Gourdon

Gourdon medieval capital of the Bouriane, is a small picturesque town only 3 kms from Les Fourches. It has many fascinating side streets leading up to the church and the Table d'Orientation which has a stunning 360 degree view over the surrounding countryside. It has a history dating from medieval times and caves with paintings which are 25,000 years old. On the circular route around the town there are a variety of excellent restaurants and pavement café bars where you can sit in the sun and watch the world go by. There are markets on Tuesdays and Saturdays which sell local produce amongst which is the famous Fois Gras and there are several supermarkets and patisseries. On route to Les Fourches from Gourdon there are two lakes - one for fishing only (day and week licences can be obtained in Gourdon) and the other for swimming, fishing and generally having fun!

One of the side street in the "Cite Medieval" Gourdon.

Gourdon
Gourdon

View of the River Dordogne from Domme.

This beautiful area has an abundance of places to visit and activities to enjoy.

WALKING: For those who like walking we have route maps available of over 50 different walks in this area between Gourdon, Sarlat and Rocamadour (on the Causse) varying from 5kms to 13kms, as well as local walks from Les Fourches for the less energetic!

HORSE RIDING: The Lot is perfect for horse riding with over 1000 kms of bridleways through wonderful scenery. There is an Equestrian Centre ½ km from Les Fourches where we can arrange escorted hour rides and picnic rides (subject to availability) for you to explore this beautiful countryside. Alternatively book an "Etoile" where you ride out each day in a different direction for 6 days - ask us for more information at time of reservation.
Equestrian centre website: www.achevalrando.com

CYCLING: If you wish to bring your bike there are plenty of quiet country lanes to explore from Les Fourches or you can go up to the Causse (15 mins.) and cycle through stunning scenery stopping for lunch at a village auberge or take a picnic. Bikes can also be hired in Gourdon

CANOEING: There are several canoe companies offering canoe and kayac hire of varying distances on the River Dordogne (10kms) through the Valley of the Chateaux - take a picnic and make a day of it. The canoe companies hire waterproof containers so you can take your camera!

HOT AIR BALLOON: Take an early morning flight in a hot air balloon (Montgolfieres de Perigord) and have a bird's eye view of the beautiful Dordogne River with its chateaux and stunning countryside around Domme. Flights available from La Roque Gageac (20 kms).

BOAT TRIPS: At La Roque Gageac, a very pretty village with prehistoric caves built into the cliffs, take a trip on the River Dordogne in a Gabarres, a replica of a 19th century river boat, and experience the epic period of riverboats of the last century viewing the beautiful chateaux en route.

GOLF: There are two very good golf clubs at either Souillac or Vitrac (both approx.18kms) where visitor membership is available.

Rocamadour (30kms) is one of the most visited places in France. Perched high on a rock promontory, it has spectacular views over the surrounding countryside.

Domme (15kms) a royal bastide, has one of the richest histories of the Perigord. The panorama from its rocky peak over the River Dordogne is quite exceptional - take your camera!
Sarlat (25kms) is a very popular town with a wonderful market on Saturdays. The old quarter is pedestrianised with a variety of shops and street cafes to enjoy.
Cahors (45kms) is the capital of the Lot situated on the banks of the River Lot. Here you can visit vineyards where you can sample the wines before stocking up your cellar!

Then there is Les Fourches where you can just soak up the sun by the pool or relax under the trees with a book. Whichever you choose, you will be made most welcome here - we live on site so are available should you need us.