Swimming in the Lot-et-Garonne

It’s not so easy to access the sea from this region but don’t despair if you love the water…most of the rivers have swimming beaches and can be surprisingly warm in the summer months.  And almost everywhere in Gascony you will find attractively located lakes which have been turned into a "Base de Loisirs" attraction..  The following is just a selection.

We recommend the Base de Loisirs at Solomiac (pictured above) where you will find water slides in addition to the usual entertainments, although it can be busy in high season.  You will find it on the road to Sarrant, heading from Solomiac village centre (take care at this turning!).  The centre at Montclar-de-Quercy (20km east of Montauban on the D8) offers a 40 minute train ride around the lake.

At the Base de Loisirs (between La Grange and Castelnau de Montmiral), there is a man made lake with a beach and a water-slide. Swimming here is supervised by lifeguards so you can relax and let your children enjoy themselves in the water.  There is a café and picnic area at the site.

 The lake at Montaigu de Quercy (45km from Cahors) has a sandy beach, chidren’s play area, water slide and pedaloes for hire as well as mini golf if you want to keep your feet dry!

L’Archipel de Cahors is a municipal waterpark with a 4300 sq ft swimming pool, paddling pool, slides, jacuzzis and water spectacles - a delight for both children and adults alike.

We also know of Base de Loisirs lakes at Beaumont-de-Lomagne (just south of Beaumont on the D3),  Saint Sardos, Lectoure and Lafrancaise.

Many of these have lifeguards on duty and offer sailing, canoeing and kayaking, with pedaloes for hire.  And of course swimming in the lake, often with man made beaches.

As always please take great care of your children in the water.  Rivers can be especially dangerous after heavy rain and only you can know the ability of your children.  We cannot accept responsibility for them!