Retrace the footsteps of our little-known heritage and discover some unusual Quercy Caussadais sites and memories.
Some have reached through time to the present.
We suggest a journey through time around Septfonds, a bastide rich in memories and history, or Saint-Cirq…
VISIT
4,000 years ago...
Take a walk in the woods to discover our local hidden heritage; you won’t be disappointed. We suggest you follow the hiking trails.
Along these walks you will discover dovecotes, dry stone walls and a well, and small paths bordered by low walls and trees typical of the region. They will lead you to the Tombe du Géant, a 4,000-year-old dolmen classified as a historical monument.
Other must-see sites are the dolmens of Finelle and Peyrelevade.
Septfonds also has fountains and wash-houses.
Let’s now return to the village and to more modern times...
The birthplace of hats
The hat industry began in 1800 on these farmlands with Pétronille Cantecor. This shepherdess made the first braid by mixing rushes with wheat straw. She then overlaid the braids with concentric seams to create a cap… and so the paillole was born. Subsequently, a great industry developed. And although there is now just one workshop in activity in Septfonds, the village architecture has a marvelous story to tell. You can find many hints of this as you stroll through its streets.
La Mounière, a living history museum in Septfonds, retraces the story of straw, aviation and the displacement of populations. The museum offers 2 walking routes to find out more about the village: one on the theme of hats, the other around the memorial sites related to the Septfonds (or Judes) Camp.
Discover the small village of Saint-Cirq
Its typical stone houses and landscapes are ideal for a hike or mountain bike ride as a couple, with family or with friends. Wash-houses, stone wells, dovecotes, streams and groves will line your walk. You will also be able to admire the Château de Fonlongue, the church and its bell tower.
Tasting
L’Auberge de l’Hirondelle in Saint-Cirq
After this enjoyable walk, you will surely be ready for a lovely stew cooked on a wood fire at L’Auberge de l’Hirondelle. A guaranteed warm welcome and tasting of quality local produce, all in front of a beautiful central fireplace!
Accommodation
Gîte de Laurens in Saint-Cirq
This 3-star, 1,400 sq.ft. house has 3 comfortable bedrooms.
We like: the “makeover” of this beautiful stone house and the meadow covering 2.5 acres of land behind it.
Le Nid des Chênes B&B in Septfonds
Le Nid des Chênes offers a vast guest room for 2 people.
We like: Gérard will be happy to take you down the local paths by mountain bike or on foot.