Discover The Dordogne

Trip Description

The Dordogne is one of France’s best-kept secrets. Since it’s popular with the British, the handy thing is that English is spoken in most tourist places. The landscape is simply stunning and there is so much to do and see. You can spend your days wandering through the vast number of historic villages, tour castles, visit markets or for the more adventurous try canoeing the river, see the valley from a hot air balloon or venture deep into underground caves.

BOOK THIS TRIP

Details

 

Trip Length

4 nights, 5 days

Driving Distance

Approximately 125 miles
(averaging 2 hours max per day)

Interested In?

History, Markets, Castles, Gardens, Cuisine

 

Scenery

Rivers, medieval villages, countryside

Activity Level

Active to moderately active

Budget

Expect to spend approx. $1750 p/person for 5 days on accommodations and dining (prices will vary depending on your travel preferences)

 

Trip Highlights

  • MARKETS & MEDIEVAL VILLAGES

    There are many villages in the Dordogne that are classified as les plus beaux villages. Driving along the river and making stops wherever you fancy is wonderful. Shop at many of the excellent village markets. We’ll provide a list for each village’s market day so you can’t miss them!

  • FLY OVER THE VALLEY

    See the remarkable UNESCO city site of Rocamadour or the chateaux of the Dordogne valley from a completely different perspective. It’s so incredible to view it from a hot air balloon!

  • VISIT JOSEPHINE BAKER’S CASTLE

    There are plenty of castles to visit in the region but this one is particularly special. Not only can you see the gorgeous gardens, architecture and cool art deco decor but you’ll also learn all about the fascinating history of Josephine.

  • EXPLORE AMAZING GARDENS

    You could spend an entire afternoon wandering our favorite suspended hilltop garden with breathtaking views over the valley below. It’s a gem in the area that is not to be missed.

  • CAVE VISITS

    From to the world famous UNESCO Lascaux cave paintings to cave dwelling villages, to taking a subterranean boat ride into the Gouffre de Padirac—there are various interesting tours, excursions and visits to be had in the area.

  • BOAT OR CANOE DOWN THE RIVER

    It’s wonderful to drive through the many storybook villages that line the Dordogne but why not see them from the river! You can take a boat ride or if you’re feeling adventurous, rent a canoe (a perfect excursion on a sunny day).

Sample Itinerary

Day 1

You will start your journey from Bordeaux then head into the lush countryside along the Dordogne river. 2 hours in, you will pass through the most charming fairytale villages. Check into your hotel known for comfort, style and top-notch service. Take a walk around the grounds while marveling at the river across the way. Head into town and meander through the cobblestone streets, then up the hillside to the century’s old chateau. That evening, treat yourself to a Michelin-star restaurant oozing with French charm, only a mere 10 minute walk from your hotel.

Day 2

Start the day early with pastries from the world-renowned patissserie chef just 10 minute drive away. Then head over to the famous Sarlat market to fill your basket full of mouth-watering local produce, cheeses, fresh bread and wine. From there head to the awe-inspiring hilltop garden to enjoy your picnic with the most stunning views across the river valley below. Continue on down the road to explore Josephine Baker’s stunning chateau steeped in history, or decide to catch a sunset river boat tour gliding along the pink-hued waters.

What Does the Trip Include?

• Our vetted and recommended accommodations (ranging in price)
• Suggested route itinerary (with room for spontaneity)
• What you can do and see according to your preferences
• A bit of history of the region
• Cultural references
• Road trip music playlists
• Useful travel tips
• Specially designed PDF with links to necessary info

Itinerary price: $50

*Airfare, hotels, transportation, meals, and activities not included.

*You will make your own bookings for hotels, transportation, car rental, restaurants, activities, etc. If you’d like us to make bookings or be on call, we can do that too. Please refer to the travel consultation page for more info.

*Please note: to rent a car you must have valid drivers license + minimum age requirement of 21

Suggested Route

 

Book a Trip!

If you’re interested in a featured trip, please get in touch and we’ll send you more detailed information.