Duras is a picturesque and historic town in the departement of Lot-et-Garonne in southwest France. Located within the large region of Aquitaine, Duras is popular with visitors who enjoy both cultural and historical attractions and the great outdoors. Surrounded by unspoilt countryside, forests and lakes, the region is ideal for those who enjoy activities such as walking and cycling and more extreme activities like climbing, caving and even hot air ballooning.
The main attraction in the Duras region is the town's castle, built in the 17th century as a luxurious private home for the local aristocracy. Visitors today can enjoy the laid-out gardens, restored rooms and even actors recreating historical activities and traditional cooking techniques. The main tower offers a fantastic view over the Dropt valley and the river below, while the interior also features a small museum on the folklore and legends of the Aquitaine region. There are several historic churches in the town, including the Romanesque Ste Colombe de Duras, featuring frescoes of Bible stories that were used to educate the illiterate peasants who first used the chapel. The Coin Museum in Duras details the different currency used in Aquitaine and other parts of France throughout the centuries, including some rare examples.
In nearby towns there are several more intriguing attractions, such as the village of Soumensac with its museums on tools, iron work and toys which are located in underground caves and the working water mill at Cocussotte.
The countryside around Duras is ideal for outdoor pursuits like hiking, cycling and horse riding – all unusual and enjoyable ways of exploring the Aquitaine scenery. There are several marked trails that depart from Duras of varying lengths. The local tourist office can provide maps. Similarly there are cycling routes between Duras and some of the nearby villages and rural attractions, while visitors who prefer more speed can tackle the mountain biking routes in the hills. There are several cycle hire shops in Duras and the surrounding towns. Take things at a more leisurely pace with a day trip organised by one of the local equestrian centres. The day will involve a guided ride at a pace that suits everyone with lunch included.
The area around Duras is also well known for producing wines, and there are several vineyards that offer tours and tastings for visitors. There is a wine festival in Duras every August, when the local vineyards bring their products into town, so no one needs to worry about staying sober to drive!
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Duras? Then below is a selection of gites in Duras and villas in Duras that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
