Twelve sandstone pillars, a chestnut-wood roof frame and canal tiles: the market hall in Lacapelle-Marival offers a tangible introduction to the town’s architectural history. It dates from the 15th century. Together with the château and L’Arbol, the old gate in the former castle fortifications, it adds to the town’s cultural character. There is also a choice of outdoor activities: a circular hike, a technically demanding mountain-bike route and walks by the lake. This gives you a way to assess Lacapelle-Marival according to your interests in architecture, hiking or cycling.
The château and former castle fortifications
The Château de Lacapelle-Marival was built from 1460 onward by Guisbert de Cardaillac-Lacapelle and his son Astorg; it was completed toward the end of the 15th century. Visitors can walk along the ramparts and enjoy views of Place du Fort, the church and Place de Laroque. Art et Patrimoine offers self-guided or guided tours of the château every summer. During the rest of the year, visits are available on request. For planning purposes, check what is specifically on offer, especially if you are travelling outside the summer season.
L’Arbol is an old gate in Lacapelle-Marival’s former castle fortifications, flanked by a tower. Together with the château and market hall, it reveals different aspects of the local heritage: the former fortifications, the château building and the architecture of a 15th-century structure.
Hiking and mountain biking
The Bois de Bordet circular hiking trail starts and ends at Place de l’Église. It is 13.6 kilometres long and takes about four hours. This approximate duration gives you a practical reference point when planning how much time to allow for your hike. Another way to explore the area on a route is the Boucle des Moulins et du Pic: this 29-kilometre mountain-bike loop is technically demanding and intended for regular cyclists. It includes fords, among other features. Check local route conditions before setting out.
The GR6 also passes through Lacapelle-Marival. It is part of a pilgrimage route that comes from Le Puy-en-Velay. If you plan to include this route in your trip, check the stage details in advance. The Bois de Bordet hike and the mountain-bike loop differ both in how you travel and in their stated level of difficulty, so your choice depends on the kind of outing you have in mind.
Lake, fishing and other activities
Le Merlival is a lake of around 3.1 hectares near Lacapelle-Marival, close to the D218 departmental road. At Lac le Merlival, you can walk around the lake, and fishing is also possible. If you plan to fish, check the local fishing regulations in advance.
The motocross track in Lacapelle-Marival is about 1,700 metres long and between 8 and 12 metres wide. If you are interested in a competition, check access arrangements before your trip. The track dimensions are a useful guide to the facility, but they do not replace checking access to a competition.
Discover regional products
The Lacapelle-Marival market is open to tourists who want to discover regional products. Check the latest market information before your trip.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Carnac-Rouffiac, Issepts, Espagnac-Sainte-Eulalie, Labastide-Du-Vert, Cahors, Padirac, Puyjourdes, Calès
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