In Lot-et-Garonne, at the junction of the departments of Dordogne, Lot and Tarn-et-Garonne, next to the medieval town of Fumel, lies Saint-Vite-de-Dor. An idyllic village with an illustrious history. Perfectly situated on the River Lot, surrounded by the vineyards of Cahors, this ‘village fleurie’ is an oasis for anyone seeking peace, space and a touch of the unexpected.
Thanks to the River Lot, which played a role in the transport of goods and people as far back as the Hundred Years’ War, Saint-Vite developed into a hub for various smuggling routes during the 18th and 19th centuries. The Château des Rochers, situated in the centre (Le Bourg), played a crucial role in this.
That role is now a thing of the past, and the château and its surrounding park offer visitors every opportunity for picnics, sport, games and relaxation. Fishing enthusiasts can give free rein to their talents in the Lot and catch a variety of impressive freshwater fish. The presence of the barrage (dam) guarantees an abundant fish population: catfish measuring one and a half metres and larger, amongst others, have been caught here.
There is also more than enough to do for walkers and cycling enthusiasts. As St. Vite lies in the Lot valley, the gradient is gentle. This makes long walks and cycle rides much more appealing, especially when you realise that there are a large number of wineries (domaines) within cycling distance.