5-day tour discovering the Périgord Noir

5 nights at the Hameau Vert par Nature

In this article we propose a 5-day tour to discover the Périgord Noir around Sarlat la Caneda, the Dordogne and Vézère valleys.

Discovery tour of the Périgord Noir

Day 1 – Sarlat-la-Canéda and the Dordogne Valley

Start your tour in Sarlat-la-Canéda , a medieval gem. Stroll through the cobbled streets, admire the elegant townhouses built of golden stone, and enjoy the market on Wednesdays or Saturdays (depending on the day of your visit) to discover local specialties.

In the afternoon, head to La Roque-Gageac , listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. A barge trip on the Dordogne River offers stunning views of the cliffs, castles, and landscapes that have made the region famous. End the day with a stop at the Château de Beynac , an impressive medieval fortress overlooking the valley.

Day 2 – The major prehistoric sites

Dedicate this day to exploring the prehistoric heritage of the Périgord Noir. Start with the International Centre for Cave Art – Lascaux IV , which recreates the famous paintings of the Lascaux cave with remarkable fidelity.

Continue on to Les Eyzies-de-Tayac , the world capital of Prehistory, where you can visit the National Museum of Prehistory or one of the many archaeological sites in the surrounding area. At the end of the day, enjoy a stroll along the banks of the Vézère River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 3 – Charming villages and remarkable gardens

Explore the most beautiful villages of the Périgord Noir in the Dordogne Valley. Start with Domme (listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"), a hilltop bastide offering exceptional panoramic views over the Dordogne Valley. Then visit Castelnaud-la-Chapelle (also listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France") and its castle dedicated to the art of war in the Middle Ages.

In the afternoon, treat yourself to a verdant escape at the Gardens of Marqueyssac , famous for their sculpted boxwood hedges and spectacular views, and perhaps try a via ferrata on the cliff. In the evening, savor dinner in a traditional inn featuring Périgord specialties.

Day 4 – Nature and Heritage

Head towards the Vézère Valley, to Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère (Classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"), a charming village nestled on the banks of the river. Continue with a visit to the Château de Losse , a remarkable Renaissance residence surrounded by elegant gardens.

In the afternoon, opt for a canoe trip down the Dordogne or Vézère rivers to discover the cliffs, villages, and castles from a different perspective. This activity, accessible to all, is one of the best ways to appreciate the landscapes of the Périgord Noir.

Day 5 – Local Flavors and Authentic Villages

Conclude your Périgord Noir discovery tour with a visit to Belvès (listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"), a charming ancient medieval town, or Limeuil (also listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"), located at the confluence of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers. Before leaving, take the time to bring back some local specialties.

Practical advice

• Best time to visit: from April to October, with a preference for May, June and September to avoid the high summer crowds.

• Transportation: a car is essential to fully enjoy the sites and villages.

• Gastronomy: don't miss the local markets, walnut oil, ceps, truffles (in season), Périgord walnuts and walnut pastries.

• Duration of visits: plan to book in advance for the most popular sites, including Lascaux IV and some summer activities.

We would be delighted to guide you and advise you on many other visits and activities not presented in this article in order to meet your desires and interests.

Hélène and Arnaud