Labastide-Du-Vert: Henri Martin, Springs and Karst Plateaus

Labastide-Du-Vert in the Lot can be explored through its cultural history, local details and landscape. Henri Martin spent the last 40 years of his life here. Other highlights include the “vieux lavoir,” a restored “Travail,” springs and karst plateaus. This offers different perspectives to consider when planning your trip: painting and gardens, former workplaces or natural features. You can choose how to view the destination based on which of these aspects you want to shape your trip.

Henri Martin and the Gardens at Marquayrol

The subject of painting also leads to Henri Martin’s gardens at Marquayrol. They include the painter’s studio, as well as ponds, pergolas and small garden arbors. The studio and garden features offer different points of focus: one draws attention to the artistic work, while the others highlight the design of the grounds. Visits and walks in the gardens are organized by ARJEHM.

Springs and Former Workplaces

At the entrance to Labastide-Du-Vert is the “vieux lavoir,” donated by Henri Martin. Its basin is fed by the “source des Fées.” Another historic site is the restored “Travail,” opposite the Café-Tabac. It was once the workplace of the blacksmith, who shod the horses and oxen that worked in the fields there. The comparison shows two different connections to the area: the lavoir centers on its basin and spring, while the Travail relates to the craft of working with farm animals.

Karst Landscape and Rocky Slopes

Labastide-Du-Vert has numerous springs, often enclosed by stone vaults; some flow year-round. On both sides of the valley are karst plateaus characteristic of the region. The Travers de Guilhem and other rocky slopes of the Devèzes and the Travers can be explored in the commune. The springs, valley and rock formations give the landscape different scales, from individual water sources to the plateaus on either side of the valley.

Hiking Route and Practical Planning

The “Labastide-Du-Vert au pays d’Henri Martin” hiking route is 5 km long and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. It leads to the Mouline, a former grain mill, and passes the maison du sabotier. Henri Martin liked to set up his easel at this spot. The stops have different histories: the Mouline was a grain mill, while the maison du sabotier is associated with Henri Martin’s painting. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

The “LABASTIDE-DU-VERT - Bourg” liO bus stop is 560 meters from the Gardens of Henri Martin at Marquayrol. Check current transport information before traveling, as these details may change. MANDRA – Roulotte Fumante serves fresh, local and seasonal cuisine in Labastide-Du-Vert. As availability may change, it is a good idea to check shortly before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Lamagdelaine, Vire-sur-Lot, Payrac, Bio, Lissac-et-Mouret, Prayssac, Teyssieu, Cressensac.

For the main travel overview: Lot.