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What to see in Dordogne? Must-see villages and châteaux
Discover without further ado this magnificent region of France, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, which also includes the Périgord. Did you know, by the way, that the inhabitants of Dordogne are called Périgourdins?
The most beautiful villages in Dordogne
Here are our 7 favourite villages to visit if you come to the region.
La Roque-Gageac
Nestled against a cliff overlooking the Dordogne, La Roque-Gageac is one of the most beautiful villages in France. A picturesque village best known for its troglodyte houses, its little lanes and its exotic gardens that you absolutely do not expect! Take the opportunity to go for a gabare boat ride on the river or along the village. A postcard-worthy landscape to immortalise!
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Capital of the Périgord Noir, this historic town is an absolute must if you come to Dordogne. You will appreciate its medieval and Renaissance architectural heritage. What we like most are its cobbled lanes, its typical houses with lauze stone roofs, its lively squares, but also its market on Wednesday and Saturday mornings.
A chance to taste local products such as foie gras and of course Rocamadour cheese (also called Cabécou). You will find many restaurants to enjoy the delights of this sublime region, such as foie gras, truffle or duck. Also remember to take the panoramic lift behind the church, for a full view of the village. A perfect place to stay if you want to visit the Vézère valley.
Beynac-et-Cazenac
Dominated by the Château de Beynac, this pretty little medieval village offers breathtaking views over the Dordogne valley. Climb up to the château or enjoy a canoe trip if you want to admire the village from the river. The charm of Beynac-et-Cazenac also lies in its old houses with lauze roofs and its fortified gates.
The village of Domme and its royal bastide
Famous for its panoramic view over the Dordogne and its ramparts, Domme is also one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" in the heart of the Périgord Noir. Come and visit its underground cave, accessible from the Place de la Halle. Don't miss the Porte des Tours and the Domme market if you come. Head to the Esplanade de la Barre overlooking the town (at sunset, it's even better!)
Monpazier
Founded in 1284 by the King of England and located north of the Château de Biron, Monpazier is considered the best-preserved bastide village. Look at the Place des Cornières surrounded by arcades, its well and its perfectly ordered lanes. Come during its traditional market to taste regional products. Finally, don't miss visiting the Bastideum.
Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère lies on the banks of the Vézère, halfway between the Lascaux caves and Les Eyzies. Perfect for a picnic during a lunch break. We especially like its medieval architecture with its Château de Clérans and its 12th-century Romanesque church. For information, the village is home to one of the largest Buddhist centres in France, and also in Europe.
Limeuil, a pretty medieval town
A former port of fishermen and gabare boatmen, Limeuil is also ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, on the edge of the Périgord Noir with a sublime panoramic view. Explore Limeuil along its lanes lined with magnificent stone houses, pass through the gates of this former fortified town and go and see its church. Also don't miss the Romanesque chapel of Saint-Martin with its polychrome frescoes.
Other most beautiful villages of France to visit in Dordogne include :
- Coly-Saint-Amand,
- Saint-Jean-de-Côle
- or Belvès.
Dordogne châteaux to visit
You are surely wondering which is the most beautiful château to visit in Dordogne? Here is our top 5 of the most beautiful châteaux of the Périgord.
The Château des Milandes
Former home of the famous Joséphine Baker, this château invites you to dive into the captivating story of this exceptional artist from her beginnings to her exclusion. An audio guide will accompany you throughout the visit. Her life story will hold no more secrets for you.
Surrounded by remarkable gardens and an English-style park, the château stands elegantly on a hill. During your visit, find out about the many activities: birds of prey shows, feeding of exotic birds, etc.
The Château de Castelnaud
Perched above the Dordogne, not far from Sarlat, the Château de Castelnaud is a magnificent medieval fortress that the whole family will enjoy. Overlooking the Dordogne and Céou valleys, this château transports you through the ages thanks to its impressive collection of weapons and armour. Go and visit its Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle museum with its life-size reconstructions of siege machines. You will learn all about the defence and combat strategies of centuries past. Park at the bottom of the château and climb up through the lanes! We'd better warn you, it's steep, but it's worth it!
The Château de Beynac
Perched on the side of a cliff, this château is a journey out of time in this village ranked among the most beautiful in France. With its ramparts and watchtowers, the Dordogne valley unfolds before you. Note that the Château de Beynac overlooks the Valley of the Five Châteaux. Many films were shot there, such as Les Visiteurs 2 or Ridley Scott's The Last Duel.
The Château de Puymartin
This 13th-century château is a true fairy tale, as well as being at the heart of the most fascinating spells and legends, including that of the White Lady. You will see interiors richly decorated with period furniture and tapestries, as they were during the lord's lifetime. The same family has occupied the château for 600 years. Don't miss the candlelit tours for an unforgettable immersive experience.
The Château de Commarque
Nestled in the heart of a legendary valley, in a preserved natural setting, the Château de Commarque is a unique site that sparks the imagination. If it is called a château, it is more an architectural ensemble made up of medieval ruins, a prehistoric cave, and a troglodyte dwelling. A thousand-year history that immerses you in the heart of prehistory and the Middle Ages.
Other châteaux in Dordogne to see during your stay include:
- The Manoir de Gisson
- The Château de Hautefort
- The Château de Salignac
- The Château de Bourdeilles
- The Château de Biron
The caves in Dordogne not to be missed
If you wonder “what to see in Dordogne”, you will see many cave signs at the side of the roads. So which ones should you favour? Here is our favourite list.
The Lascaux Caves
A visit to do as a family to show your children the art of our ancestors. The replicas of caves II and IV (International Centre for Cave Art Montignac-Lascaux) give you an immersion in the sanctuary of prehistory, just as it was at the time. Your eyes light up in front of every drawing, every sign, recounting the deep communion between man and nature.
A guided tour not to be missed to better understand the secrets of these masterpieces. A cave art that has illuminated the walls for millennia and makes the eyes of young and old alike shine.
The Gouffre de Proumeyssac
Also called the "Crystal Cathedral" and located in Audrix, this chasm is a true natural spectacle. In the heart of a dizzying cavity, you will discover a fairy-tale world shaped by water and time. It is also the largest developed chasm in the Périgord. In front of you, sparkling concretions create a dreamlike setting. A descent by gondola as in the old days or on foot takes you to the heart of this wonder.
The Villars Caves
Its particularity? The prehistoric paintings and engravings of this cave blend into a natural setting of stalactites and stalagmites. A cave to add to our “What to see in Dordogne” list. A visit like an open window onto the soul of primitive humanity, in a crystal setting…
The Grand Roc Cave
Another geological gem of the Périgord Noir, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site ! Here, nature has sculpted a fantastic world of shapes and textures. Rare and delicate formations discovered in 1924, then opened to visitors 3 years later. A walk through this mineral labyrinth is especially appreciated when it is hot !
The Rouffignac Cave
Also known as the "Cave of a Hundred Mammoths", the Rouffignac Cave is a journey through time to learn more about prehistoric wildlife. Here, both cave bears and prehistoric artists followed one another. During your visit, a little electric train takes you to discover these ancient frescoes. On the programme, mammoths, bison and woolly rhinoceroses come to life before your eyes, in a silence charged with history.
The Gouffre de Padirac (in the Lot, though)
So yes, this chasm is not in Dordogne, but in the Lot. Nevertheless, it is hard not to mention it if you come to the region. The Gouffre de Padirac is one of our favourites of our stay, which is why we put it in our “What to see in Dordogne!” list. It would be a shame to miss this geological wonder. So, ready to descend into the bowels of the earth before sailing on the underground river?
You wind through majestic chambers, spectacularly lit. An adventure where the grandeur of nature is revealed in all its splendour with a mystical touch. To come back up, you can choose between the lift or the stairs for the bravest!
Other suggested visits:
- the Domme Cave (or Grotte de la Halle as it is located under the square of the same name).
- the Abri de Cap Blanc, an open-air prehistoric site with its 15,000-year-old frieze.
- the Abri du Poisson, known for its sculpture depicting a fish.
What to do in Dordogne with the family?
Besides the châteaux and prehistoric caves, what to do with children in this sublime region? Of course, it will depend on the season, but here is a suggestion of activities to make the most of your stay:
Visit the Marqueyssac gardens
What can we say about these hanging gardens, they are simply sublime! The visit can be done all year round and offers a 6 km walk, with unrivalled views over the Dordogne valley. Peacocks will greet you by displaying their tails, and boxwoods are hand-trimmed to the millimetre. In short, needless to say it is worth the detour, especially as the site is rated 3 stars in the Michelin Guide! It is also the most visited garden in the South-West! We loved it!
Your children will love the plant labyrinth as well as the treetop course, deep in the gardens. There are also pretty cabins that will delight the youngest. In short, it is a real paradise for the whole family. On site, a brasserie tea room awaits you. In summer, candlelit evenings are organised there, creating a most magical atmosphere.
Go for a canoe trip
In our guide to what to see in Dordogne, we can only recommend this water activity if you come in spring-summer. On the Dordogne or the Vézère, discover breathtaking landscapes in a fun way, surrounded by sublime châteaux from the river. For information, many water sports bases offer canoes suited to families.
Explore the village of Bournat
Dive into the life of an early 20th-century village by discovering the daily life of peasants of that time, their customs and crafts. On site, several interactive workshops are offered. Your children will love the vintage rides and will be in contact with the farm animals.
Go to PrehistoParc
Only 15 minutes from Montignac-Lascaux, this theme park is dedicated to the life of prehistoric humans. It offers an educational trail with sound, enhanced with life-size scenes of life in the era of Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon. A great time to spend as a family if you are wondering what to see in Dordogne.
Spend an afternoon on an educational farm
Do your children want to be in contact with farm animals? By visiting educational or discovery farms, they can also take part in cheese-making workshops and more. There are those of:
- Domaine des Chaulnes,
- Les Alpagas de Montpeyrou,
- le Rucher du Marandou
- or le Parc du Touron.
So many fine adventures ahead…
Climb in the trees
Ah, it is an activity that children love, we agree! In Dordogne, you will find several adventure parks, such as Accrozarbres in Laveyssière. Most have tree-climbing courses suited to all ages, allowing children to climb, slide and jump safely. Laughter and thrills guaranteed!
Where to sleep for a stay in Dordogne?
Several possibilities are open to you. It will also depend on your wishes and your budget.
For a stay in the heart of Sarlat, we recommend le Boudoir de Marie. With cosy décor, this Deluxe apartment sleeping 4 is perfect for visiting Dordogne. Rated 9.5 Exceptional on Booking.
As other options, here are our favourite addresses:
- Le Clos de la Caneda, rated 9.5 Exceptional on Booking.
- Le Domaine de Rochebois with its two sublime pools.
- La Villa des Consuls, a charming holiday cottage
- Le Moulin de Mitou, located in Auriac-du-Périgord
And finally, l'Hostellerie de la Commanderie.
What to see in Dordogne for 3 days and more
Here is an itinerary idea to help you best plan your stay in the Périgord, a jewel of French heritage.
Visit Dordogne in 3 days
Let yourself be guided through the green landscapes of Dordogne, its centuries-old châteaux and its picturesque villages.
Day 1: Prehistoric caves and medieval châteaux
Start your journey with a visit to the Vézère Valley, nicknamed the "Valley of Man". This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the famous Lascaux cave, where you can admire masterpieces of prehistoric art. After a lunch break, head to the Château de Beynac, a medieval fortress overlooking the Dordogne. If time allows, set off to discover La Roque-Gageac, a village on the side of a cliff. Enjoy a gabare boat ride on the Dordogne to end this magnificent day.
Day 2: Sarlat, Marqueyssac Gardens and Château des Milandes
For this second day, set off to explore the historic centre of Sarlat with its medieval architecture. You can stroll through its cobbled lanes, before taking the panoramic lift, located in the former bell tower of the Church of Sainte-Marie, turned into a covered market. From up there, you will have an unrivalled view of Sarlat and its surroundings.
Then head to the Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac with their many viewpoints with spectacular views. Allow about 20 to 30 minutes by car to get there. We advise you to have lunch on site to make the most of the day.
End the day with a visit to the Château des Milandes, former home of Joséphine Baker. Depending on the programme, you can attend the falconry shows offered in the gardens behind the château.
Day 3: Gouffre de Proumeyssac and visit to Limeuil and its panoramic gardens
For this third day, we advise you to explore the famous Gouffre de Proumeyssac, on a guided tour. Then, head to Limeuil, which is about 20 minutes by car. Take the opportunity to have lunch in one of its local restaurants.
You will be charmed by its medieval lanes. Don't hesitate to climb to the top of the promontory. On site, you will find many craftsmen's workshops, little shops, and sublime viewpoints to immortalise. While you are there, go and see the Panoramic Gardens of Limeuil with its bamboo maze and aromatic plants.
Visit Dordogne in 4 days
For your 4-day stay, we advise you first to take the itinerary prepared for a 3-day stay in Dordogne. Then, we will complete this fourth day with a visit to the Château de Castelnaud, a sublime fortress in the heart of the Périgord Noir.
Founded in the 12th century and located only 9 km from Sarlat-la-Canéda, this château overlooks the Dordogne valley. During your visit, check the programme of activities according to the season: forge demonstrations, a meeting with a knight, or even chivalry lessons for children.
End the afternoon with a walk in the village of Domme, one of the most beautiful villages in France, a pretty commune of the South-West. You can explore its bastide, the Templars' prison or the gardens of the Château de Caudon. If you are tired of walking, take the little train for a guided tour.
Visit Dordogne in 7 days
For your itinerary, here is a summary of the first 4 days seen previously. For details, we advise you to re-read the paragraphs just above:
Quick itinerary of the first 4 days:
- Day 1: Visit of the Lascaux Caves, Château de Beynac and discovery of La Roque-Gageac
- Day 2: Visit of Sarlat, the Marqueyssac Gardens and the Château des Milandes
- Day 3: Gouffre de Proumeyssac and visit of Limeuil
- Day 4: Château de Castelnaud then a walk in the village of Domme
Day 5: Immerse yourself in the Périgord Pourpre
Famous for its vineyards and its bastides, set off for this region by starting with a guided tour of Bergerac, then to Monbazillac with a wine tasting in the château. In the afternoon, continue your exploration towards Saint-Émilion, a village also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend it for its medieval town, its underground monuments and its sublime vineyards.
Day 6: Escape to the Périgord Vert
For this sixth day, set off to explore the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park, a true green haven. Then, head to Brantôme, also called the "Venice of the Périgord", for a canoe trip on the Dronne. Along the way, you will see romantic gardens and an old mill.
Enjoy a lunch by the water before visiting the Château de Puyguilhem. A true Renaissance fairy-tale château with its boxwood maze and its incredibly sculpted decoration.
Day 7: Visit of Rocamadour and the Gouffre de Padirac
Even though it is no longer Dordogne but the Lot, we advise you to end your week with a visit to these two unmissable tourist sites. Get ready to descend 103 metres underground and get an eyeful! After going down the many steps, you will feel tiny in the middle of this natural cavity. Follow the path, then a boat and its boatman will be waiting to take you to the other galleries. You will see in particular the Grand Dôme chamber, with 94 metres under the ceiling!
Then, go for lunch in Rocamadour. For a panoramic view of the whole site, go to the restaurant Le Belvédère! The food is really good there, an address tested and approved 🙂 Then, park at the car park on the route de la Corniche, at the top of Rocamadour. Follow the path to go down slowly before entering through the Porte Saint-Martial and visiting the Sanctuary of Notre-Dame de Rocamadour.
