Follow the river as it carves its way through the Dordogne Valley in all its natural and enthralling glory. The river runs through the Lot département before flowing into Périgord north of Occitanie. All along its twists and turns, it introduces you to a whole host of charming villages and outdoor activities where water reigns supreme.
Did you know? The Dordogne is listed as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. It's the only river in France to have the title.
It goes to show how rich and abundant nature is in the Dordogne Valley. Embrace its untamed personality to wind down and reconnect with the elements.
The Dordogne seeps you in its unspoilt surroundings as it winds its way through Occitanie. River bends lined with cliffs, sandy islets home to willows and reeds, pebble beaches, walnut and plum tree orchards and more: this leafy river setting speckled with brown from the old tiles from villages or castles can only belong to the Dordogne Valley.
The mouth of the Dordogne River is in Auvergne. It flows into Occitanie, running around 60km through the Lot département: you can then follow it from Sousceyrac to Souillac. Then it continues its journey in Nouvelle Aquitaine. It's a unique historical and cultural destination whose lifestyle, heritage and food & drink have sculpted the land.ie structurent les territoires.
Deep in the Dordogne Valley's unspoilt landscapes, you'll find unusual places like caves and chasms, sensational scenery and incredible built heritage: take a deep dive into the many sites listed as Towns of Art and History or Most Beautiful Villages in France.
Must-sees: the villages of Loubressac, Autoire, Carennac, Martel, Creysse and its bathing area and, of course, Souillac. Experience the incredible underground world at Padirac and Lacava Caves. Drink in views of the Dordogne Valley from Montvalent or Copeyre. Visit the castles of Château de Castelnau-Bretenoux and Château de Montal. Spend a day in Rocamadour, the famous clifftop village and Grand Site Occitanie.
Follow top journalist Philippe Viguié Desplaces as he explores the wonders of the Dordogne Valley.Vivamus non ornare erat.
Video 5:14 ©Voyage Occitanie
The destination's ever-present water makes the Dordogne Valley a fresh haven ideal for swimming and relaxing.
Its natural surroundings give you the chance to experience all kinds of outdoor activities: hiking, cycling, canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, canyoning, rafting and via ferrata.
The Dordogne has canoe routes suitable for all ages with fabulous ever-changing views. An absolutely unmissable experience.
Last but not least, the Dordogne Valley stands out for its pleasure-seeking nature.
The Dordogne's riverside lands are joyful, generous and unspoilt with all kinds of gourmet delights for you to indulge in: visit our restaurants, local markets and producers who bring a land bursting with little gems to life.
Fattened duck, AOP free-range Quercy lamb, AOP Périgord walnuts, AOP Rocamadour cheese, truffle, wine and more: prepare to be blown away!
Regional Committee for Tourism and Leisure Occitanie
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