Dordogne Map Of France: Your Ultimate Travel Guide

If you’re planning a trip to France, make sure to include Dordogne on your itinerary. Located in the southwest region of the country, Dordogne is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Dordogne.

Top Attractions

Dordogne is home to some of the most spectacular attractions in France. From medieval castles to prehistoric caves, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Some of the top attractions in Dordogne include:

Lascaux Cave

The Lascaux Cave is one of the most famous prehistoric caves in the world. It features some of the best-preserved examples of prehistoric art, with over 600 paintings and 1,500 engravings dating back to the Paleolithic period.

Château de Beynac

The Château de Beynac is a medieval fortress that offers stunning views of the Dordogne River. It’s one of the best-preserved castles in France, with a history that dates back to the 12th century.

Sarlat-la-Canéda

Sarlat-la-Canéda is a beautiful medieval town that’s known for its well-preserved architecture and stunning scenery. It’s a great place to wander around and explore, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to keep you entertained.

Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, Dordogne has plenty of hidden gems to discover. Here are a few of our favorites:

Les Jardins de Marqueyssac

Les Jardins de Marqueyssac is a beautiful garden that’s located on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Dordogne River. It features over 150,000 boxwood trees that have been shaped into amazing topiaries.

La Roque-Gageac

La Roque-Gageac is a picturesque village that’s built into the side of a cliff. It’s a great place to explore on foot, with narrow streets and alleys that lead to stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Cingle de Trémolat

The Cingle de Trémolat is a scenic loop that follows the Dordogne River. It’s a great place to go for a drive or a bike ride, with stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Food Scene

Dordogne is known for its delicious cuisine, which features plenty of local ingredients and traditional dishes. Here are a few things you should try:

Foie Gras

Foie gras is a traditional French dish that’s made from the liver of a duck or goose. It’s a delicacy in Dordogne, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants that serve it.

Truffles

Truffles are another local specialty in Dordogne. They’re a type of mushroom that’s prized for its earthy flavor, and you’ll find them in many dishes in the region.

Walnuts

Walnuts are a staple ingredient in Dordogne cuisine, and you’ll find them in everything from salads to desserts. Make sure to try some walnut cake or walnut liqueur while you’re in the region.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Dordogne can be an expensive place to visit, but there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing your experience. Here are a few budget-friendly tips:

Visit in the Off-Season

If you can, try to visit Dordogne in the off-season. Prices are generally lower, and you’ll have a better chance of finding deals on accommodations and activities.

Eat Like a Local

Instead of eating at expensive restaurants, try to eat like a local. Visit local markets and grocery stores to pick up ingredients for a picnic, or look for small cafes and bakeries that offer affordable meals.

Take Advantage of Free Activities

There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in Dordogne, such as hiking, exploring the countryside, and visiting public parks and gardens. Take advantage of these activities to save money on your trip.

Outdoor Adventures

Dordogne is a great place to get outside and explore. Here are a few outdoor adventures to consider:

Canoeing on the Dordogne River

One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Dordogne is by canoeing on the Dordogne River. You’ll paddle past stunning scenery, medieval castles, and quaint villages.

Hiking in the Vézère Valley

The Vézère Valley is a beautiful region that’s filled with hiking trails. You’ll see stunning views of the valley, as well as prehistoric caves and ancient ruins.

Cycling the Greenway

The Greenway is a 55-kilometer bike path that follows the Dordogne River. It’s a great way to explore the region on two wheels, with plenty of scenic stops along the way.

Historical Landmarks

Dordogne is steeped in history, with plenty of landmarks and monuments to explore. Here are a few of the top historical sites in the region:

Château de Castelnaud

The Château de Castelnaud is a medieval castle that’s been beautifully restored. It features a museum of medieval weapons and armor, as well as stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Château de Hautefort

The Château de Hautefort is an elegant 17th-century castle that’s surrounded by beautiful gardens. It’s a great place to explore on a sunny day.

Abbaye de Cadouin

The Abbaye de Cadouin is a beautiful 12th-century abbey that’s known for its intricate architecture and stunning stained glass windows.

Family-Friendly Activities

Dordogne is a great place to visit with kids, with plenty of activities and attractions that are fun for the whole family. Here are a few family-friendly activities to consider:

Le Bournat

Le Bournat is a fun and interactive museum that’s dedicated to the history and culture of Dordogne. Kids will love the traditional games, crafts, and rides.

La Foret des Ecureuils

La Foret des Ecureuils is an adventure park that’s perfect for kids who love to climb and explore. It features zip lines, rope bridges, and other fun obstacles.

Le Gouffre de Padirac

Le Gouffre de Padirac is a natural wonder that’s sure to amaze kids and adults alike. It’s a massive underground cave system that you can explore by boat or on foot.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Dordogne has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Here are a few of our favorites:

Château de Puymartin

The Château de Puymartin is a beautiful castle that’s located in a remote part of Dordogne. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and get a glimpse of rural French life.

Le Gouffre de Proumeyssac

Le Gouffre de Proumeyssac is a unique natural wonder that’s known as the “Cathedral of Crystal”. It features stunning stalactites and stalagmites, as well as a light show that’s not to be missed.

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil is a small town that’s located in the heart of the Vézère Valley. It’s a great place to explore on foot, with plenty of hidden alleys and quaint cafes to discover.

Natural Wonders

Dordogne is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in France. Here are a few to add to your itinerary:

Rocher des Aigles

Rocher des Aigles is a bird sanctuary that’s home to over 600 birds of prey. It’s a great place to see eagles, vultures, and other majestic birds up close.

Cascade de Gouffre

Cascade de Gouffre is a stunning waterfall that’s located in the heart of the Dordogne countryside. It’s a great place to go for a hike or a picnic.