The 10 most beautiful walks in the Dordogne

Explore the Aquitaine Basin on the best hiking trails in the Dordogne.

Situated in south-west France, the Dordogne is a department divided between the plains of the Aquitaine Basin and the foothills of the Massif Central. This region with its rich history can be discovered by visiting the cities of Périgueux, Bergerac, Sarlat or Ribérac… But that’s not all!

For an invigorating getaway in the heart of the Périgord valleys, don your hiking boots in the Dordogne. You’ll have the chance to admire castles, green plains, sumptuous forests, bastides and vineyards.

Here, each season has its own color and light. In the end, the hardest thing will be to know which trail to start with… and when to come and discover it. To help you choose, we present the most beautiful ones: follow the guide!

1. A walk in Les Eyzies

Photo credit : Alltrails

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac is a picturesque village offering superb hiking in the Dordogne. It is one of the world’s capitals of prehistory, built entirely on a prehistoric site and troglodytic village.

Located some 20 km from the town of Sarlat, this loop trail takes you on an exploration of the Vézère valley. It all begins on rue de Taillac, near the Cro-Magnon shelter where the first known burial site was discovered.

After heading for the bridge over the Vézère, continue along the path leading to the campsite to reach the signposted itinerary. This forest walk takes you past sumptuous cliffs, caves and small lakes.

On your return, you can round off your tour in style at the former Château des Eyzies, now home to the Musée National de la Préhistoire!

2. Path between Castelnaud and Saint-Julien

Photo credit : Alltrails

This Dordogne hike forms a loop starting from the Maisonneuve campsite. It’s a very pleasant walk: you’re in the heart of the fabulous Dordogne valley.

Shady and pleasant in summer, this hillside getaway is perfect for a family outing. Your tribe’s objective? Wander the bucolic paths, savor the fragrance of the shrubs and explore some beautiful caves.

The Céou cliffs will face you at the end of your journey, which ends at the foot of Castelnaud castle. Built in the 13th century, this historic monument dominates the Dordogne valley, and is a great photo opportunity.

3. From Maisonneuve to Esparoutis

Photo credit : Alltrails

This time, we offer a variation on the previous circuit. Still starting from the Maisonneuve campsite, this trail is more athletic: from the outset, a steep climb awaits you. Good footwear is recommended for this sun-sheltered loop.

The path through dense pine and oak forest then winds its way more leisurely to beautiful vantage points overlooking the region. Alongside the Céou, the local waterway, you can admire the castles built by local notables.

Some are superbly preserved and elegantly punctuate this « Pays de Cocagne ». This hike in the Dordogne is sure to make you appreciate the Périgord Noir: at least, we did!

4. The Montfort circuit

Photo credit : Alltrails

This Dordogne hike is a must in the region: the loop is, it should be stressed, very well signposted.

Park near Château de Montfort on the D703, then follow the yellow signs. Beware: the first climb through undergrowth may surprise less experienced hikers!

After a little effort, you’ll reach the sublime village of Vitrac. It dominates a natural plateau and features a remarkable fortress. A few kilometers further on, you can also see the Château de Marobert.

Special points of interest along the way? The Caudon cliffs and the Roche Percée, astonishing works of nature. Back at your starting point, visit the medieval village of Montfort: it’s well worth a visit!

5. The banks of the Isle

Photo credit: Flickr – JPC24M

Welcome to La Cave, a village in the department with a railway station on the road to Bordeaux. You’ll need to park here to access the signposted route along the banks of the Isle, a tranquil river.

Nothing too difficult: Sunday walkers are welcome here. You’ll reach the villages of Razac and Fauveau in turn, then approach the Château d’Antoniac at the end of the route.

This Dordogne hike is ideal in spring or autumn when the weather is not too hot. The only precaution is to take water with you, and to keep out of the way of mountain bikers who share the trail.

6. Green oak loop

Photo credit : Alltrails

Clearly, this Dordogne hike is one of our favorites: it offers the chance to discover La Roque-Gageac, an ochre village and one of France’s most beautiful villages.

From the Halle parking lot on the banks of the Dordogne, follow the river to the Château de La Malartrie on the other side of the village. You’ll then have to make a fairly easy ascent through a wood of holm oaks.

Meadows, forest paths and an ancient Roman road: hiking is all about variety. Perfectly signposted and well shaded, the itinerary is ideal for nature-lovers.

7. Discovering the Garrit bridge

Photo credit : Alltrails

Ever heard of the Garrit bridge? Designed in iron, it rests on rock piers and spans the Dordogne between Saint-Cyprien and Berbiguières. This is your starting point on the Saint Cyprien side.

After crossing the river, head downstream towards Allas. This medieval village boasts some remarkable tourist attractions. The Romanesque bell tower and the remains of its castle are famous sites.

Along the way, pay particular attention to the small signs along the trail. They provide botanical descriptions of the plant species lining the path. Orchids, euphorbias and centauries decorate and perfume this hike in the Dordogne.

In our opinion, spring is the best time to discover it.

8. The blue lake of Guizengeard

Photo credit : Alltrails

In-cro-yable this loop hike! From the commune of Guizengeard, follow the D68 for a few kilometers and park at the church on your right. Signs indicate the location of this mysterious spot hidden in the heart of a vast Charente forest.

What a surprise when you arrive! The trail winds around a spectacular blue lake. But then, a most shimmering blue… And by no means entirely natural.

This is a former white clay quarry that is gradually filling up with rainwater. The chemical composition of the soil does not permit the development of aquatic life(nor swimming). However, the water remains crystal-clear and free of suspended matter.

The sunlight gives this liquid expanse an almost supernatural turquoise color… Sensations guaranteed!

9. Hiking along the Lot

Photo credit : Alltrails

Here’s a lovely panoramic walk along the Lot, starting from the small village of Bouziès. Once you’ve reached the parking lot of the same name, follow the path to the right to reach the banks of the river.

The signposts (red and white) are ofexcellent quality and will lead you effortlessly to the belvedere at the entrance to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. What a panorama of the valley!

The return to the parking lot is via an undergrowth path that is pleasant even in summer. Please note: there is a charge for parking at Bouziès.

10. The Alzou gorges

Photo credit : Alltrails

This trail takes you through the Alzou canyon between Gramat and Rocamadour. From the parking de la clairière, follow the GR6 down to the Moulin du Saut. The trail then crosses it to reach the Mouligne or Boulégou mills.

Ruins more than a thousand years old dot the route, amid lush vegetation from March to October. The trail is rather hilly, so bring good shoes.

Don’t hesitate to complement your hike with a visit to the medieval town of Rocamadour or a sunset view from the top of the gorges. Splendid, isn’t it?