Criniere au vent: Nature and Discovery in Monbalen

This small loop goes around the Pech de l'Estelle, east of the village of Saint-Antoine. After a passage on an open plateau, a shady path leads you to the foot of the Tour de Péchon. On the way back, you will cross an oak wood on the Pech de l'Estelle.

This hilly itinerary offers some beautiful viewpoints and links three churches. The existence of the village from which the walk begins, comes from the establishment of a commandery of Saint-Antoine in the 12th century, but also from the development of white figs imported from the East. The town was then called Saint-Antoine-de-Ficualbano, then Saint-Antoine-de-Figues-Alba before taking its current name, Saint-Antoine-de-Ficalba. Along the way, you will discover the churches that make up the landscape of the Grand Villeneuvois: St-Antoine, rebuilt in the 16th century, which housed a commandery of hospitaliers in the Middle Ages, the church of St-Pierre-ès-Liens in Doumillac, nestled in the vegetation, and Cambes, a former Benedictine priory dating from the 12th and 16th centuries, which depended on the abbey of La Chaise Dieu.

This easy circuit turns around the village of Laroque, linking the parish church to the old church and then to that of Saint-Germain, whose fountain water, according to legend, cured the ailments of Roland's army.

This circuit alternates panoramic passages in the north, and crossings of woods and shaded paths with rural lanes in the southern part. You will discover interesting heritage features such as the Round Tower or the castle of Fauguerolles and you will enjoy exceptional views all along the route. Originally, the village was called Fauguerolles and included two parishes: Saint-Caprais-de-Boussorp and Saint-Pierre-de-la-Feuille. The national road linking Limoges to Tarbes crossed the village from one side to the other. Built in 1769, this road was very busy between Agen and Villeneuve-sur-Lot. A relay located at the crossing of this axis with that of Laroque-Timbaut/Laugnac carried the name of the large white cross established in this place. In 1839, to avoid confusion with a commune in the Marmandais, "Fauguerolles" became "La Croix Blanche".

This loop crosses the N21 twice and the steep valley where the small stream of Carretterie flows. In the valley, the paths are mostly shaded.

On the plateau surrounding the village of Castella, the tracks are wide. After crossing the small valley where the Fontirou stream flows, the steep paths offer shade and coolness.

This walk starts on the plateau surrounding the village of Castella. The second part is more rugged, traced above the Bourbon valley on steep, shady paths.

This small circuit is very contrasted: steep and shaded paths, wet and green combe of Bourbon, pigeon house, lakes, old water mill, wash house and fountain. A vast plateau with viewpoints decorates the return journey.

The Bourbon stream, which rises near the village of Castella, is a tributary of the right bank of the Garonne. Crossing this circuit, it feeds numerous water reservoirs for the irrigation of the agricultural lands of the Agenais.

This former 18th century farmhouse includes a fully renovated house with adjoining barn. Surrounded by 2ha of meadow and woods, you can enjoy a clear view on the valley, and lounge by the private pool on the sunny terrace. The petanque court will occupy your afternoons, and the billiard table your evenings. For the lovers of beautiful landscapes, you will be able to discover many hiking trails in the surroundings. For your meals: plancha, brazier and pizza oven. The lodging is composed on the ground floor of an equipped kitchen, a living room with fireplace and dining room with pellet stove, 2 bedrooms (2 beds in 140), 1 shower room, 1 bathroom, 1 independent WC. On the first floor a large air-conditioned mezzanine bedroom with a 160cm bed, as well as a bedroom with a 160cm bed, a mezzanine corner with a sofa, TV. A patio with its garden furniture and bar.

In the heart of the South-West, near the Dordogne and the Lot, between Agen and Villeneuve sur Lot, near the equestrian center "la maninière au vent", independent house, located near an undergrowth. Not overlooked, with its covered terrace, its non enclosed garden of 3000 m² with swing, this gîte totally restored with taste and charm will ensure you peace and rest.

In the heart of the South-West, at the gateway to the Périgord and Quercy, pretty stone building with panoramic views over the green valleys. You will be under the charm of this tastefully restored house, facing south. Comfort and standing are at the rendezvous. Totally independent, it offers on the ground floor a large fitted kitchen with dining area, a large living room with fireplace, two bedrooms (2x160), a bathroom and a toilet. Upstairs, a large bedroom (1x160 with an extra bed), a mezzanine with a sleeping area (1x90) and a shower room with toilet. Laundry room. Electric heating. Internet wifi. South-facing terrace with garden furniture, deckchairs, plancha. Unfenced garden of 2500m², on a property of 4.5ha in total. Sheets and towels included (except in formula week end). Tourist tax to be paid on the spot, plus heating in winter.

Very charming and authentic renovation for this old house with a ground floor and first floor, located near the owners' own property. It is situated in an exceptional environment of woods, footpaths, clearings and rock formations... Perfect for keen hikers!

Between Périgord and Quercy and at the gates of Agen, Marencènes is a unique place, offering a landscape as far as the eye can see. Ideal for large families or groups of friends, the gîte, fitted out by Isabelle and François in a typical house of the Pays de Serres, will bring you great comfort and large volumes. On a property of 9ha suitable for walking, a fully enclosed garden of 330m ² will ensure the safety of the little ones, under the watchful eye of parents. The secured swimming pool offers with the terrace a space of leisures for all. The gîte offers a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room with fireplace, a mezzanine living room, 2 ground floor bedrooms with a bathroom (shower and bathtub) and a wc. Upstairs, 2 bedrooms, 1 bedroom with mezzanine and private shower room, 2 bedrooms in a row and a shared shower room with toilet.

Between Périgord and Quercy and at the gates of Agen, Marencènes is a unique place, offering a landscape as far as the eye can see. Ideal for large families or groups of friends, the gîte, fitted out by Isabelle and François in a typical house of the Pays de Serres, will bring you great comfort and large volumes. On a property of 9ha suitable for walking, a fully enclosed garden of 330m ² will ensure the safety of the little ones, under the watchful eye of parents. The secured swimming pool offers with the terrace a space of leisures for all. The gîte offers a fully equipped kitchen, a dining room with fireplace, a mezzanine living room, 2 ground floor bedrooms with a bathroom (shower and bathtub) and a wc.

Situated between Villeneuve sur Lot and Agen, 3km from the village, Gazelle stretches out on a hillside in the Vallon de la Masse, in a landscape of meadows, wooded plateaux and steep combs. This old renovated farmhouse, with its dominant position, groups together a group of buildings of character, typical of this part of the Lot-et-Garonne, the Pays de Serres. Swimming pool, basin and wash-house bring to the place the freshness essential to the summers of the South-West. At the end of the road leading to the property, you will discover the Grange de Gazelle with its traditional awning, where stone, metal and wood intertwine to offer volume and space. The spirit of the barn of yesteryear blends with resolutely contemporary influences. The modernity of the fittings and furniture blends with the materials of yesteryear, where books find refuge in the old cribs.

Nice property (2 ha) located in a small valley with a watermill, in Aquitaine (South-West), near Agen, in the homeland of the Bastides (walled towns), prune and foie gras. Old barn converted into a one-storey and detached gite with no building directly opposite. Tranquillity is guaranteed, a perfect spot for couples and nature lovers.

Overlooking the Bourbon valley, this traditional pigeon house stands among hundred year old oak trees. A former plum oven is still part of the building but it is fully equipped. It is separated from the owners’ house by a high stone wall with a built-in barbecue. You will no doubt particularly appreciate the kitchen which opens onto the terrace which itself is prolonged by a 5000 m² meadow.

In the heart of a 30-hectare estate, the Fompesquiere gîte is an invitation to relax in the heart of nature. This small valley in the Pays de Serres region is crossed by a stream that feeds three ponds where you can go boating, swimming or fishing. This totally independent gîte is located in an old hamlet, away from the owners' house. A large family or a group of friends can enjoy the grandiose yet intimate setting.

Denis and Nathalie specialize in the tradition of semi-cooked prunes and their derivatives (pulp, filled prunes) and also offer seasonal fruit jams.

This village, with a name meaning courageous, preserved intact its lovely church dating back to the end of the Middle Ages.

A 2nd category 6-hectare lake. Fishing for roach, pike, zander, perch, night carp fishing. Every fisherman must carry a fishing permit.

Come to Z'animoland, halfway between Villeneuve and Agen.It is an animal fun park close to the Fontirou caves where you will be introduced to common farm animals such as donkey and pigs and goats but also lamas and camels. Kids can play on inflatable structures and wooden games in a 7 hectares shaded park.Snack bar and picnic area, water fountains to play in for hot days.

Thirty million years ago, nature carved out 7 rooms of different shapes and colours which became the Fontirou caves. The site has areas for visitors to picnic, have a drink and even play a round of mini golf.

Superb 15th century building built around a former Antoinins commandery. To see: the cornices, half-timbered houses, church, the village bread oven...

This museum is dedicated to Gertrude Schoen and shelters various sculptures and pictorial creations (statuettes, monumental sculptures and pictures) made out of different hard materials, such as steel, stainless steel and other metals. A student of Ossip Zadkine in the 50s, Gertrude Schoen developed a powerful and timeless interior language through her work.

"This village dates back to the 13th century. Numerous vestiges witness its medieval past. To see: the 13th century covered market, the town gate and clock, its dungeon, Rue du Lô, the miraculous spring and chapel of Saint Germain, the waterwheel, Saint Pierre d'Orival church, Norpech (hamlet and church) and the Gertrude Schoen museum."

Direct sale on the farm of fresh produce harvested on daily bases: melons, watermelons, potatoes, etc. Stall on the Laroque Timbaut market every thursday morning.

In a predominately Provençal setting, where you can taste cuisine in the pure Southwestern tradition, using only the finest produce.

Le Paradiso welcomes you in a family, friendly and festive atmosphere some evenings to make you discover an authentic and traditional cuisine.

Located in the heart of the bastide, come and taste a large choice of pizzas to take away made with fresh products from local producers.

Jardin de Sauvagnas welcomes you in a warm and friendly environment where you will spend a pleasant moment. The chef serves you a traditional cuisine based on fresh products and home-made dishes.

The Little Lake, the Garden of Paradise... Come and taste local meat and fish cooked over a wood fire in a peaceful setting by the water, in the shade of a magnificent willow tree. Outdoor summer restaurant open on sunny evenings (lunch from 20 people on reservation). It can also be privatized for your receptions, seminars ...

Restaurant-grill providing generous and varied seasonal recipes for the pure pleasure of your taste buds.

The MaKa offers you homemade dishes based on fresh seasonal products, preferably organic. Our recipes are prepared by our chef with passion, simplicity and love and evolve according to the days and seasons. If you feel like a fresh break, come and taste the local artisanal ice creams or the homemade juices and smoothies.

A warm little break in the heart of the medieval town of Pujols. At the Pianothé, a moment of sharing between the sweetness of a pancake or a cake and the melody of a few piano notes awaits you in an authentic setting.

In an 18th century building in a park of century-old trees, the restaurant was taken over in March 2011 by Bruno and Barbara. They offer a simple, tasty cuisine, based on fresh market products.

In the heart of the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, in the Pays de Serres, between Agen and Villeneuve sur Lot, 1h30 from Toulouse and Bordeaux, Alexia and Christian welcome you all year round for a time of rejuvenation in an unspoilt natural setting. You'll find a large swimming pool, an 8-hectare park, outdoor games, a permaculture garden and two horse stalls. If you wish to dine, we offer a cuisine based on organic and/or local produce (garden produce in season), by reservation only. All local residents are encouraged to adopt an eco-responsible approach (limiting and sorting waste, paying close attention to water and electricity consumption, recycling, etc.). The village of Laroque-Timbaut offers all amenities within 3 km, and 3 of the "most beautiful villages in France", including the bastide town of Monflanquin, are less than 20 km away.

In the heart of the Nouvelle Aquitaine region, in the Pays de Serres, between Agen and Villeneuve sur Lot, 1h30 from Toulouse and Bordeaux, Alexia and Christian welcome you all year round for a time of rejuvenation in an unspoilt natural setting. You'll find a large swimming pool, an 8-hectare park, outdoor games, a permaculture garden and two horse stalls. If you wish to dine, we offer a cuisine based on organic and/or local produce (garden produce in season), by reservation only. All residents are encouraged to adopt an eco-responsible approach (limiting and sorting waste, being vigilant about water and electricity consumption, recycling, etc.). The village of Laroque Timbaut offers all amenities within 3 km, and 3 of the "most beautiful villages in France", including the bastide town of Monflanquin, are less than 20 km away.

In the heart of the New Aquitaine region near Agen, Alexia and Christian welcome you all year round for a time of relaxation in a preserved natural setting. Terramaïa is a villa of character, nestled in a park of 8 hectares with cocoon guest rooms. The swimming pool, the permaculture garden, the stables, as well as many facets of the park, complete the palette of charm of this privileged environment. Let yourself be seduced by this exceptional place, whether for business or pleasure.

This former 18th century farmhouse includes a fully renovated house with adjoining barn. Surrounded by 2ha of meadow and woods, you can enjoy a clear view on the valley, and lounge by the private pool on the sunny terrace. The petanque court will occupy your afternoons, and the billiard table your evenings. For the lovers of beautiful landscapes, you will be able to discover many hiking trails in the surroundings. For your meals: plancha, brazier and pizza oven. The lodging is composed on the ground floor of an equipped kitchen, a living room with fireplace and dining room with pellet stove, 2 bedrooms (2 beds in 140), 1 shower room, 1 bathroom, 1 independent WC. On the first floor a large air-conditioned mezzanine bedroom with a 160cm bed, as well as a bedroom with a 160cm bed, a mezzanine corner with a sofa, TV. A patio with its garden furniture and bar.

In the heart of the South-West, near the Dordogne and the Lot, between Agen and Villeneuve sur Lot, near the equestrian center "la maninière au vent", independent house, located near an undergrowth. Not overlooked, with its covered terrace, its non enclosed garden of 3000 m² with swing, this gîte totally restored with taste and charm will ensure you peace and rest.

In the heart of the South-West, at the gateway to the Périgord and Quercy, pretty stone building with panoramic views over the green valleys. You will be under the charm of this tastefully restored house, facing south. Comfort and standing are at the rendezvous. Totally independent, it offers on the ground floor a large fitted kitchen with dining area, a large living room with fireplace, two bedrooms (2x160), a bathroom and a toilet. Upstairs, a large bedroom (1x160 with an extra bed), a mezzanine with a sleeping area (1x90) and a shower room with toilet. Laundry room. Electric heating. Internet wifi. South-facing terrace with garden furniture, deckchairs, plancha. Unfenced garden of 2500m², on a property of 4.5ha in total. Sheets and towels included (except in formula week end). Tourist tax to be paid on the spot, plus heating in winter.

The little house in the meadow awaits you for a quiet stay. All amenities at 10 min. Small house of 30m ², all comfort, with a bedroom, a kitchen open on a living room, a bathroom with shower, and separate toilet. Air conditioning, garden furniture, barbecue... just enjoy!

Calm and tree-shaded, this campsite was fit out in an equestrian farm between Agen an Villeneuve-sur-Lot. It proposes camping sites for tents, caravans or motor homes and furnished dodger bungalows renting, and, more eccentric, tepees.

The owners will give you a warm welcome to their 90 ha farm (cattle breeding, cereals, poultry…). They have fitted out a room in a small outbuilding next to their home which is equipped with all modern conveniences. You can go for walks in the surrounding countryside before relaxing by the pool, shared with the owners.