A couple miles outside Luzech is the tiny village of Saint Vincent Rive d’Olt (Saint Vincent on the River Lot). This is my favorite village in France, much to the amusement of Sophie’s family as it is small and not really a tourist destination. Nevertheless, I think it is completely charming. It is usually the first place I go to when we arrive at Sophie’s parents – and often the last place I visit before we leave. I can get there in about 5 minutes by bike or 20 minutes walking.
Saint Vincent is situated on the southeast end of the buckle of the Lot river (the buckle that was once cutoff by the canal in Luzech). It is surrounded on nearly every side by steep hills. One main road goes through the base of the town, while several little roads and trails climb into the hills surrounding it. It is a great starting place for exploring!
By bike, I usually take the road that follows the river from Luzech. As you enter Saint Vincent, there is a majestic old house on the hill to your left with two square towers and a large veranda between. They have a great view! Further along the road, a little cobblestone courtyard is surrounded by old houses, a 15th century church, some tall Cypress trees and the town council (mairie).
There are extremely narrow streets behind the church that climb up the steep hill. Houses are perched along these streets, and incredibly, several cars are parked in little garages along the way. At the top of the street is a cute little chapel from the 15th century that appears to be attached to the house adjacent. There is always a beautiful rose blooming along the wall, and they keep the chapel door open during the days for visitors. Inside is an interesting wooden statue of the Virgin Mary and Jesus. The road continues along the hillside and becomes part of the GR36 trail heading back towards the east side of Luzech.
Back down in the city center, the main road opens up to a courtyard next to a little stream that was channeled through the town. This is always a good place for a photo – and makes a great gathering spot in the middle of town for the locals. The water flows under the bridge through a canal towards an old mill house at the northern edge of town. Along the way are ancient houses built against a cliff wall. The GR36 trail continues alongside the mill and ends up looping all the way around the river bend back to the west side of Luzech. It is a fun hike to do on a hot, sunny day as it is in the shade the whole way.
Back on the main road, you eventually get to an old covered lavoir (communal place where people would wash their clothes) that is still in working order – though no one uses it anymore. The water flowing through it is part of the stream system I already talked about.
I hope you agree that this little village is something special!
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