Le Bastit brings together several different travel interests: the Templar heritage of the Commanderie de Templiers du Bastit, the local lake tradition at Lac de Mège, and the Le Sentier d’Henri circular trail. These offer different ways to explore the area, from written history and traditional water use to a specific walking route.

Templar history and the Tour de la dîme

The Commanderie de Templiers du Bastit first appears in written records in 1225, giving the town’s Templar history a clear date. The Tour de la dîme offers a different historical perspective: it was used to store the tithe collected by the Church from farmers. The tower is in ruins; only the lower room remains.

The two topics offer different points of interest: the Commanderie focuses on written records, while the Tour de la dîme shows how a building was used in connection with the Church’s levy. If you are interested in history, you can compare a historical reference point with the story of a building’s specific use.

Lac de Mège and the lake tradition

Lac de Mège is one of the local “Lacs de Saint Namphaise.” It is considered a small lake, usually rectangular or square. Lakes in this tradition were created by hand by excavating exposed limestone slabs, to secure water for people and livestock. The lake therefore represents both a particular landscape feature and the practical purpose of storing water.

This connection between form and use offers a different perspective on Le Bastit than its historic buildings: here, the focus is on traditional water use and its importance to people and livestock. If you are interested in cultural history, you can also see Lac de Mège as part of a local tradition, not just as a lake.

Le Sentier d’Henri circular trail

Le Sentier d’Henri is a circular trail and interpretive nature trail in Le Bastit. It starts in Le Bastit and is 9.4 km long. You can include it in your day’s plans as a specific outing; its circular route and interpretive focus distinguish it from the historic buildings and the lake tradition.

A treasure hunt for the route is available through the “Baludik” app, along with a downloadable leaflet. You can take part in the digital treasure hunt or download the leaflet. The circular trail is also accessible to mountain bikes. Check the latest route and Baludik information before setting out.

Accommodation and dining in Le Bastit

Domaine de Bel Air offers guest rooms and a Table d’hôtes in Le Bastit. Both the guest rooms and the Table d’hôtes are offered by the same establishment.

The Table d’hôtes serves seasonal cuisine featuring produce from the garden and selected partners within a 30 km radius. The radius applies to the selected partners; produce from the garden is another part of the cuisine. Dishes may vary with the season. Check what is offered during your visit and whether guest rooms are available.

Discover more destinations

Bretenoux, Francoulès, Valroufié, Laburgade, Villesèque, Saint-Caprais, Puy-L'evéque, Saint-Céré

For the main travel overview: Lot.