What are the “Most Beautiful Villages in France” in Dordogne?
The Dordogne department has no less than 10 “Most Beautiful Villages of France”. It is one of the departments with the most in France.
The “Most Beautiful Villages in France” of the Vézère valley
Limeuil
At the place where the Vézère river flows into the Dordogne river, gain some height by visiting the charming village of Limeuil. Stroll through its streets and narrow alleys to discover its artists and artisans. Once you arrive at the top, a visit to the panoramic park will offer you a breathtaking view of the confluence.
And if you want to cool off, all you have to do is go back down to sit on the pebble beach and take a little dip.
Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
Go back up the valley towards Montignac-Lascaux and stop at Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère. Let yourself be transported by the bucolic charm of this medieval village nestled on the banks of the Vézère river. Its 12th century Romanesque church, its castle, the charming Manoir de la Salle, its many artisans, make Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère a must-see in the Vézère valley.
Saint-Amand-de-Coly
We continue the road until the village of Saint-Amand-de-Coly. Let yourself be surprised by its impressive 12th century abbey church, and discover breathtaking history and landscapes with its interpretation trail and hiking loops.
The “Most Beautiful Villages in France” of the Dordogne valley
A few kilometers from the Vézère valley, close to Sarlat, the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” of the Dordogne valley are waiting for you.
- Leaning against the cliff, the village of La Roque Gageac facing south, bordering the Dordogne river. This privileged exposure allows exotic plants to grow there. Strolling through its streets will give you a taste of the Périgord Mediterranean.
- Sheltered by its imposing castle, the village of Beynac and Cazenac extends along the Dordogne river. For the more courageous, leave your car at the bottom of the village and set off to explore its narrow streets up to the castle.
- Facing it, at the confluence of the Dordogne and the Céou, the village of Castelnaud and its medieval castle of the same name. This village, in addition to its fortified castle, is home to the magnificent Château des Milandes below, the former home of Joséphine Baker.
- Gain height again, and return to the village of Damn. On its rocky spur, this bastide with its ramparts and its Templar prison will offer you a breathtaking view of the Dordogne valley, its villages and its castles.
The other “Most Beautiful Villages of France” in Dordogne
Still in Périgord Noir, the village of Belvès overlooks the Nauze valley. This magnificent medieval city contains in its basements 8 underground habitats, which during a visit will take you back years.
Further south, the village of Monpazier has retained all the charm of medieval villages and offers you a step back in time. It's almost like you were there! Stroll through its streets to discover its artisans and return to Place des Cornières, to be in the heart of this country house. The village is regularly used for period film shoots.
To the north of the Department, in Périgord Vert, the village of Saint-Jean-de-Cole and its famous Château de la Marthonie invites you to wander around. Its Gothic bridge, its narrow streets and its access to the river will delight lovers of authenticity.
