France’s hidden gem has got the Lot

Though it's not one of France's best-known tourist spots, the Dordogne and its neighbouring Lot region amply reward those who investigate the area's scenic charms.

**FACTFILE**

**Getting there:** we arrived by car ferry via Cherbourg with Stena Line (stenaline.ie), which sails three times a week, year round, from Rosslare. We cruised the Lot with Le Boat (emeraldstar.ie). During the summer months, there are various fly-drive options, including indirect flights via Stansted to Brive-la-Gaillarde with Ryanair or direct flights to Toulouse (from Dublin four times a week until the end of October) with Aer Lingus (aerlingus.com).

**Where to stay:** ...