2025 Dordogne Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

With its fascinating cultural heritage and beautifully preserved natural environment, the Dordogne Valley has it all. In the summer months, the clear waters of the Dordogne river provide lots of fun activities including swimming and canoeing. It is the only river in France to be part of the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves, a prestigious recognition for an environment of exceptional quality. The Dordogne Valley retains many traces of its historic past. From cave paintings to Roman occupation, or from the Hundred Years War to the Renaissance, all have shaped the landscape you see today. The Dordogne Valley boasts no less than 5 of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, including Collonges-la-Rouge, a fairy-tale like village built entirely in red sandstone. With its cobbled streets, manors, artisan shops, cafes and restaurants, it seems to glow in the evening sun. At the heart of the Dordogne Valley stands the sacred city of Rocamadour. The Dordogne Valley is ideal for nature lovers with an endless choice of hiking, biking and riding tracks in unspoilt countryside. After all of these activities and sightseeing, there is the food to taste! Try their local specialties: truffles, strawberries, walnuts, goat cheese, chestnuts… … a platter of choice that makes the Dordogne Valley world famous for its gastronomy. #bestislandtraveltowns#naturalwonders#nationalpark

#JulyDestinations2025 🎈『🇫🇷Dordogne』 When you arrive in the Dordogne, stand on the walls of the ancient castle, the Dordogne River before you, the sun shining on the stone cottages... 📍Transportation: From Paris: 1. Take the TGV high-speed train to Bordeaux (approximately 2 hours), then rent a car to the Dordogne Valley (approximately 2 hours). 🚗 2. Take the TER from Paris Montparnasse Station to Sarlat-la-Canéda (approximately 5 hours). From Toulouse: The direct drive takes about 2.5 hours, very convenient! You can also take the train to Brive and transfer there. 🚉 🎈Peak Season Avoidance Tips Essential: Plan ahead for peak season (July-August)! Especially for the clifftop villages and kayaking, if you're late you might miss out on getting a spot. 📅 Accommodation Tips: We recommend staying in the towns surrounding the valley to avoid crowds and facilitate easy access. 🎈 Check-in List 1. Sarlat-la-Canéda Old Town: Wander through the streets, touch the honey-colored stone walls, and gaze up at the Gothic spires – every detail exudes a medieval feel. 2. Château de Beynac: A 12th-century military fortress with a bronze dagger perched on the cliffs. Sunset is breathtaking. Be sure to book a guided tour in advance. 3. Château de Castelnau: Its angular towers, facing the Château de Beynac across the river, evoke the rivalry of medieval lords. 4. Dordogne Valley: Enjoy a leisurely half-day kayaking tour and get a picnic basket – a truly relaxing experience. 5. Truffle Farm: Discover the mysterious world of truffles during the harvesting season from November to March. 🎈 Itinerary Day 1: Arrive in Sarlat-la-Canéda, stroll through the old town, soak in the history, and sample local cuisine. Day 2: Visit Beynac Castle in the morning, then kayak the river valley in the afternoon. Day 3: Visit Castelnau Castle, then browse the Wednesday market for unique finds. Day 4: Visit the truffle farm and prepare for your return trip. 🎈 Photo Tips 📸The alleys of Sarlat-la-Canéda's old town, framed by ancient stone walls. 🕌 From the highest point of Beynac Castle, take in the stunning views of the river valley. 🛥Become one with nature while kayaking in the Dordogne Valley.

#summervacay My trip to the Dordogne region has been one of my favorite travels in recent years! I think it's one of France's least-known travel destinations, as I mostly encountered French locals. The scenery and overall experience were incredibly beautiful, far exceeding my expectations. The Dordogne is made up of many small towns. I spent four days on a self-drive tour, and here are the spots I highly recommend: La Roque-Gageac (Pictures 3-8): This charming town is nestled right by the Dordogne River valley. You can take a boat trip or a traditional "gabarre" (flat-bottomed boat) to admire the river valley scenery. This was definitely one of my favorite small towns! The Marqueyssac Gardens (Pictures 1-2): This is a truly magnificent and very French garden. It's quite expansive, and as you explore, you'll discover even more beautiful mountain landscapes within the gardens. These gardens are absolutely stunning and a must-visit! Beynac-et-Cazenac (Pictures 9-10): This village is built right into the hillside, with houses seemingly emerging from the mountain itself. The roads winding through this town are the most picturesque of all the villages I visited, exuding a quintessential French countryside charm. Rocamadour (Pictures 15-16): Although a bit further afield, this "city in the sky" is absolutely worth the journey. Its distant view is truly spectacular and awe-inspiring! #Dordogne #France #FrenchCountryside #HiddenGem #TravelFrance #MostBeautifulVillagesOfFrance #LaRoqueGageac #MarqueyssacGardens #BeynacEtCazenac #Rocamadour #RoadTripFrance #ExploreFrance

Hey travel buddies, Dordogne in France is a must-visit! This fairytale-like region boasts medieval towns, riverside castles, mouthwatering cuisine, and romantic valley landscapes perfect for boating, hiking, or simply daydreaming. It's truly the treasure of southwestern France. Here's my carefully curated Dordogne travel guide – save it now! 🎉 1. Transportation 🚗 Located in southwestern France near Bordeaux, the best way to reach Dordogne is to fly to Bordeaux first, then rent a car. Self-driving is highly recommended as public transport between towns is limited, giving you more flexibility. 2. Must-Visit Attractions 📍 • **Sarlat-la-Canéda**: Known as the "Medieval Jewel," it's packed with Gothic and Renaissance architecture dating back to the 14th century. Every alley in the old town feels like a movie set, and the bell tower of Sainte-Marie Church offers breathtaking panoramic views. • **Rocamadour**: A stunning pilgrimage town built into a cliffside, with layers of buildings cascading down the rock face. A major pilgrimage site since the Middle Ages, its churches and monasteries seem to grow right out of the stone. • **Château de Beynac**: A medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the Dordogne Valley, featured in films like *The Lord of the Rings* and *The Messenger*. It played a key role in the Hundred Years' War. • **Lascaux IV**: One of humanity's greatest archaeological discoveries, this cave features incredibly preserved prehistoric paintings depicting ancient life. 3. Food Adventures 🍽️ • **Foie Gras**: Dordogne is the birthplace of foie gras. Almost every local bistro serves its own version, like pan-seared foie gras with bread – crispy outside, tender inside – paired perfectly with sweet white wine. • **Truffles**: Winter is truffle season, with many villages hosting truffle festivals. Black truffles are shaved thinly by French chefs to elevate dishes like foie gras or scallops. • **Walnuts**: A local staple, often eaten raw in salads or baked into *Gâteau aux noix du Périgord* (walnut cake), served with walnut liqueur-infused cream for a sweet treat. 4. Accommodation Tips 🏨 • **Sarlat Old Town**: Lively and convenient, ideal for first-time visitors with plenty of restaurants and shops nearby. • **Gîtes (Farm Stays)**: Experience French countryside life, perfect for families. • **Riverside Campsites**: Great for outdoor lovers or those traveling with kids. 5. Pro Tips 💡 • **Opening Hours**: Attractions' schedules vary by season, so check in advance. • **Ticket Prices**: Prices differ, so research and book ahead. • **Best Time to Visit**: Spring and autumn (April–June, September–October) are most comfortable, while summer offers more activities (but more crowds). • **Other Notes**: Pack comfy shoes for Dordogne's winding paths, and motion sickness meds if needed. Dordogne’s beauty and flavors are calling! Pack your bags and start your French adventure! 💕

#myhiddengems Dordogne was a surprisingly refreshing stop during my visit to the south west of France. What makes it a hidden gem is the fact that it is not so well known compared to other part of France. And that adds to it's appeal. is full of medieval villages, castles, impressive churches, stunning landscapes, and more caves than any other region in France. Indeed, Dordogne is home to many prehistoric paintings, considered the finest examples in Europe. Dordogne also makes a brilliant case for family getaways as it has excellent food and wine, friendly locals, beautiful weather, and plenty of activities. Speaking of which, since it is built around the river. It offers a stunning landscape that is composed of lush forests, rolling hills and imposing cliffs. I arrived here from the Boardeux airport. The drive was almost two hours and happen to sign up for a hot balloon air tour. The best experience and way of truly appreciating the beauty of this place. The following day I had so many options in castles to pick from. Most that I visited were stunning.That and the medival village vibe was a great memory. Lastly and more importantly the food wasn't a let down. From Query lamb to walnut pies and roccadeur cheese. Dordogne has a rich cuisine history and offerings for those who love food!#myhiddengems #100waysoftravel #france #medival #familygetaway #singapore