Vacations are a time of relaxation and well-being. It is also the time to discover, explore and try new activities. The Dordogne is a destination rich in surprises which offers visitors a multitude of varied activities to do during their stay.
Discover all the leisure activity providers in the Dordogne for an unforgettable holiday.
All leisure providers
The Call of the Wild – Adventure Course
Equestrian Farm Les Eymaries
Discovery Canoes
Ophorus
Activities in Dordogne for unforgettable holidays
If you are looking for ideas for organizing your trip to the Dordogne, this article is for you. We will see the different leisure and activities that the region offers and which adapt to everyone. Here you can find ideas adapted to all types of budget, whether for a vacation or a weekend.
Activities in Dordogne for family holidays
Fill up on energy and emotions during your vacation in the Dordogne, discovering the Périgord Noir and the Vézère valley.
Discover varied activities to satisfy each member of your tribe, exciting visits to the heart of nature for an unforgettable family moment. During a simple visit or for an extended stay, Périgord Noir will delight the whole family.
Some sports or leisure activities to do with the family
The Dordogne, better known as Périgord, is home to magnificent natural landscapes and offers varied and authentic landscapes. It is the perfect place to try and practice various hobbies and activities. Here are some activities to do:
- Canoeing: a very pleasant way to stroll on the region's rivers. Canoe and kayak rental companies offer boats to explore the waterways independently and safely.
- Horseback riding: if this activity tempts you, you will find equestrian centers offering accompanied rides and walks to enjoy nature.
- Water activities: for families, the Dordogne and the Vézère valley offer a wide choice of activities such as stand-up paddle boarding or barge rides.
- Hiking: for nature lovers, there are numerous hiking trails for all levels. Whether you are looking for a sporty or calmer hike, you will definitely find what you are looking for.
Cultural visits and discovery of heritage in Dordogne
The Dordogne is a land steeped in history. The towns and villages are full of historic remains and monuments that will delight young and old. Here are some must-see places to visit:
- Visiting Lascaux IV: 20 km from Montignac-Lascaux, this impressive site faithfully recreates the famous decorated caves of Lascaux, included on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
- Visiting the village of La Roque Gageac: this magnificent village is perched on the left bank of the Dordogne. It has incredible charm and offers breathtaking views of the river.
- The village of Les Eyzies immerses you in the heart of Prehistory with the National Museum of Prehistory, the caves of Font-de-Gaume, the only cave decorated in four-color still open to visitors and other prehistoric sites.
- A visit to Sarlat is one of the must-sees, but be careful, there are a lot of people in high season. Sarlat remains a town where it is good to walk, particularly in spring!
Unusual activities in Périgord
Finally, the Dordogne has original attractions that will delight the most curious and daring. Here are some examples :
- The Prehistoric Labyrinth: with its puzzles to solve throughout the course, set off to meet the last man of Cro-Magnon. Cross the Ice Age, then the mirror maze and finally wander through the anecdotes about Prehistory to finally escape this maze safe and sound!
- The Jacquou Parc: suitable for the whole family, little ones will have fun on the rides and on the wooden horses while adults will have fun in the wave pool where there will be scares on the thrill rides.
- Les Etangs du Bos: 30 minutes from Sarlat, this water park is an incomparable place for family entertainment. With its slides, its fishing pond and its mini golf course, there is no doubt that you will have an unforgettable time there.
- Hot air balloon flight: take to the skies to admire the beauty of the landscapes by flying through the air and flying over the green valleys. A unique and authentic experience that you will not forget.
- Caving: through the “Active Summer” program, take advantage of advantageous rates to practice this particular activity in the land of caves.
The Dordogne offers a variety of activities adapted to all types of budgets and all tastes. From cultural visits to water activities, horseback riding and hiking, nothing is forgotten. The region will satisfy both thrill-seekers and the most curious.
Visit the castles of Périgord Noir as a family with children
Here are some castles you might like and discover:
- Losse Castle (and its gardens)
- Marzac Castle
- Commarque Castle
- Chateau de Hautefort
- Country Castle
- Lacypierre Castle
- Beynac Castle
- Castelnaud Castle
Where to go in Dordogne on vacation?
It depends on your preferences! In Dordogne, there are all the activities to satisfy the tastes and colors of your family or group of friends. Nevertheless, we recommend the Périgord Noir 😉
The most active will find what they are looking for if they want hikes in the great outdoors. If you absolutely want original and sporting activities, we invite you to consult the Active Summer program.
What is the most beautiful place in Dordogne?
This is the question we get asked all the time! Well know that we don't have the answer 🙂 Of course we have subjective preferences, sometimes favorites, but sincerely, there is no real place more beautiful than the others in Dordogne and especially in the Périgord Noir. It will always depend on what you prefer, landscapes, castles, caves, gardens, etc.
To make your choice, we tell you more about the four colors of Périgord.
When is the best time to visit the Dordogne?
Another star question! So of course, summer is a great time to stay in the Dordogne, if only for outdoor activities. Summer of course concentrates the vast majority of events and festivals. But it's also the time when there are the most people. And that’s where you have to be smart…
