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Viewpoint · Cahors, Occitânia
Mont Saint-Cyr
The hill south of the Lot, opposite Cahors, with the viewpoint from which the whole town can be seen inside the bend of the river.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mont Saint-Cyr
Mont Saint-Cyr is the hill that rises south of the Lot, opposite Cahors town centre. Its steep slopes form the natural boundary of the city on that side, and the top has a viewpoint offering the most complete view of Cahors.
From the top you can understand the town’s shape: the centre sits inside a tight bend of the Lot, almost an island, with the cathedral, medieval towers and, to the west, the Pont Valentré. On clear days you can also see the plateaus of the Quercy around.
The viewpoint can be reached by a footpath that leaves the riverbank, a steep climb, or by car via the road that goes up the hill. At the top there is a statue and orientation tables.
It’s a good stop at the start of a visit to get an overview of the town, or at late afternoon when the low light illuminates the centre.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour on foot, including the ascent; 20 to 30 minutes by car.
Best time
Late afternoon, with the light on the town, or early in the morning, when the river sometimes has mist.
How to get there
From the centre, cross the Lot via the Louis-Philippe bridge and climb the footpath up to the top — a steep ascent of about 30 minutes. By car there is a road that reaches close to the viewpoint.
Tip
In summer, go up in the late afternoon and bring water: the path has little shade.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mont Saint-Cyr
Where can you see Cahors in its entirety?
From the viewpoint on Mont Saint-Cyr, south of the Lot, from where you can see the centre lying inside the river’s bend.
Can you walk up?
Yes, via a path that starts at the riverbank — a steep climb of about 30 minutes.
What is the best time to climb?
Late afternoon, when the light falls over the town, or early in the morning.