dordogne
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The adjoining regions of the Dordogne and the Lot offer spectacular drama, with verdant hills, rugged gorges and of course, a river running through it all.
The rivers of the Dordogne and the Lot flow through regions of contrast, from the fertile plains, limestone cliffs and wooded valleys of the Dordogne, to the rugged gorges of the Lot. The River Dordogne flows from the mountains of the Massif Central out to the Atlantic at Bordeaux.
The Dordogne is rich in agriculture and offers a delightful mix of landscapes, from hill to agricultural meadows, woodlands and honey-coloured stone houses with colourful window boxes.
The Dordogne Valley was one of the first places on earth to be inhabited by man. Evidence of this can still be seen in the form of the Troglodyte caves, old dwellings carved into the sides of the mountains in and around the Dordogne region. To the east, the Lot region is named after the wide, slow-moving river that winds its way through low hills and gorges towards some of the oldest vineyards in France.
Places to see
Sarlat - A maze of cobbled streets and steep alleys wind their way past ancient houses of honey-coloured sandstone in this renaissance market town, and capital city of Périgord-Noir.
Castlenaud-la-Chapelle - A medieval village with one of Europe’s finest fortified castles, and quite magnificent views over the valley.
Domme - An exceptionally well-preserved and pretty fortified Bastide town, standing proudly on the cliff top, with a sheer drop on one side to the river below. From the Esplanade de Belvédère you can enjoy views over a wide sweep of stunningly natural countryside.
La Roque-Gageac - An incredibly pretty village perched by the River Dordogne under a sheer sandstone cliff.
Gouffre de Padirac - One of the most remarkable and dramatic underground caverns in the world, for centuries reputed to be the gates of hell.
Things to do
Canoeing - Canoeing is hugely popular in the Dordogne, especially during the summer months when the Vézère and Dordogne rivers are shallow, making it ideal for beginners. Rent a one person kayak or two person canoe from a supplier on the river. It’s best to take at least half a day and simply drift downstream. You can arrange to be met at the end for a lift back to your starting point.
Prehisto Parc - A themed park at Tursac, near Le Bugue where waxwork figures reconstruct the life of prehistoric man.
Walking - If staying in the Lot or Dordogne regions, discover the natural beauty of the local area with our Walking Notes, available from our website, or on-site.
Lascaux II - Visit the replica Lascaux cave, 220 yards from the original, where you can view the most complete prehistoric paintings ever discovered.
