The natural reserve of the Quercy plateau obtained the famous UNESCO World Geoparc label; it’s well deserved considering all the riches it offers.
The Quercy national park obtained this new label in the spring of 2017. But what does that mean? A UNESCO World Geoparc means that the site offers unique geological features with international significance. It gives visitors a glimpse into the geological activity happening on the planet. 127 such sites are registered in the world, with only 6 in France, almost all of them in the Alps or the eastern fringe of the Massif Central. The Quercy plateau is the only other French region represented on this most exclusive list.
Why the Quercy plateau? It is an exceptional source for fossils. Geological history has made unique karst formations, sinkholes, chasms, resurgences. The park is a real life experiment in evolutionary geology. Beyond the technical term, just remember that the park is magnificent and diverse landscape. It’s great for all kinds of activities. Go rock climbing, canoeing and kayaking on the rivers Lot, Célé and Dordogne, or take your first spelunking lesson.
The Quercy plateau natural park is sometimes referred to as the “dark triangle”. It has one of the purest skies in France. Star gazers, you’ll want to put aside an evening for a quiet time taking in the celestial lights.
Not an adrenaline junkie? Explore the flora and fauna, walk or ride a bike or a horse on the many hiking paths. You can visit caves and chasms and see some of the many examples of historical heritage and rural architecture. And for our Gaelic friends longing for home, you’ll even find dolmens !