Walking

There are walks available for all levels. Along the canal, the path is flat and well maintained and stretches for miles in both directions. Along the river there is also a path on both sides which goes for a short way and is very pretty. It is possible to join up with the canal at the aqueduct and make a circular walk. Another beautiful and easy walk is around the lake at St Nicolas. It has an easy level path and has beautiful views over the lake on one side with orchards, farms and woods on the other. The bird life is spectacular to see and occasionally you may catch a glimpse of  a coypu or a red squirrel.

 

 

For the more adventurous, there are many marked paths in the hills behind the town offering some lovely views over fields and orchards. The most famous path being the GR65 the pilgrimage route of St Jacques de Compostelle. You can buy maps of local trails in the area from the Tourist Office. The office also offers guided walks around the countryside during the spring, summer and autumn stopping to sample produce (mainly fruits in season) at local farms.

Cycling

Cycling is France`s national pastime, and Moissac is a great place to follow in their passion. The track along the canal is an excellent cycle route. On one side of Moissac, the countryside is flat with meandering country lanes going past fields and orchards and through old villages, where you can stop for a well earned drink. On the other side of Moissac, you have the challenge of steep hills and valleys with great views. bicycles can be rented locally.

 Fishing

Moissac is lucky because it has both the canal and the river which offers excellent fishing. Some of the fish that can be caught are Catfish, Zander, Pike, Carp and Perch. The town has a fishing club from where you can buy a holiday fishing permit which will last 15 days. Another good place to fish is at  the lake of St.Nicolas de la Grave.

Canoing

In Moissac during the summer it is possible to hire a conoe on the river, as well as pedal boats and electric boats. It is also a fun day out if you have a car, to drive to St. Antonin Nobal sur Val. Rent a canoe and paddle through the spectacular gorges of the Aveyron river and eat your pic-nic on the river banks. The canoe rental company collect you at the end of the gorge and drive you back to the start.

Swimming

In the summer (July and August) there is a large open air swimming pool at St.Nicolas and at Castelsarrasin . There are various lakes/lidos which are open for swimming in the surrounding countryside. You can also swim in the gorges of the Aveyron river. Out of season there are are 2 swimming pools at Montauban and 1 at Golfech.

Gliding 

(All year round, but depending on the weather).

A short drive or cycle ride away, on the edge of the village of Gandalou, is an airfield with a gliding club. It is possible to book a flight with a trained glider pilot, who will take you up for around ½ hour. You will need to pre-book this in advance.

 

Horse riding

There are quite a few nearby riding centers - but you will need a car to get to them, as they are tucked away in the countryside. They offer a comprehensive range of lessons or hacks on well looked after horses and ponies.

Golf

There are 3, 9 hole golf courses in this area.

Golf d`Espalais near Auvillar is a 5734 meter course, 2x9 hole and is a Par 70. It is close to the route of St. Jacques de Compostelle, and alongside the river Garonne. The club is open all year round to the public and has a good/fun atmosphere. The club is host to many competitions throughout the year and was opened in 1987. In 2009 the green fees are € 25.00 per 18 holes.

Golf de Montauban Les Aiguillons is a 5720 meter course, 2x9 hole and is a Par 72. It is classed at average-difficult level as it has a number of water obstacles (6 large lakes and is set in 8 ha of countryside). The club is open all year round to the public, and has a good friendly ambiance. It to is also host to many competitions throughout the year. The club was opened in 1989 and has just celebrated its 20 birthday. In 2009 the green fees are € 25.00 per 9/18 holes.

Golf de Roucous  (situated 25kms south of Cahors), is a 5244 meter course, 2x9 hole and is a Par 70. classed as average with a few water obstacles. the club is open all year round. The club house prides itself on having a unique and warm atmosphere in an English style. The club also has a driving range, tennis court and swimming pool. In 2009 the green fees are €29.00 per day.