This is a wonderful area to drive through. A few km north of Gordon, the Cougnac caves with their paintings date from over 20 000 years ago. Coming back towards Souillac, we drive through Masclat, an old village with a 13th century castle. A little further on, the Fénelon Castle was the birthplace and home of the famous bishop of Cambrai. A few more bends in the road, and here is Nardaillac-de-Rouge, with unrivalled views of the nearby valleys.

Like quite a few villages, Souillac developed thanks to its position on the banks of the river, where the Borrège and the Dordogne meet. A Benedictine Abbey was established in the 12th century, but even before then, the village flourished thanks to the waterways.

The magnificent Sainte-Marie Church dates from the 12th century, and is one of the most beautiful in the region. The ancient door was partly destroyed in the 100 years War, and is now on display in the church. Furthermore, later wars also caused some damage – but it is still a truly wonderful church.

Souillac is also home to a robotics museum, with working clockwork toys from the 19th century right up to the year 2000. There are over 300 moving models, and it’s fascinating how they take you right back to your childhood.

Information: +33 (0) 5 65 37 07 07
Tourist Office : +33 (0) 5 65 37 8156


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