10 good reasons to visit Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
“The Dordogne is known for its caves and castles.” Nevertheless, the Périgord noir is also full of villages classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère is part of this list. Do you know it ?
Located in the Vézère valley between Les Eyzies and Montignac-Lascaux, this village will make you fall under its charm. Here are 10 good reasons to discover it.
No. 1. Breathtaking landscapes
The town of Saint-Léon sur Vézère is located in a cingle overlooked by the coast of Jor. This hill will give you an overview of the village of Saint Léon sur Vézère. You will clearly see the outline of the ping.
Go back down to the town. Take a short walk on the banks of the Vézère : you will see the troglodyte site of Conquil and its cliffs.
The river will offer you a moment of calm, take the time to observe this nature that surrounds you.
No. 2. Typical Périgord architecture
Let go and come stroll through this charming Perigord village with its rich and varied heritage.
Take a look at the bridge that crosses the Vézère. This Eiffel style metal bridge catches our eye, and contrasts with the old Périgord stone. This bridge connects the two banks of the town and allows you to reach the Côte de Jor via small roads (coming from Sergeac or Peyzac le Moustier).
To best discover the heritage of Saint-Léon sur Vézère, let yourself be guided by these little streets: the carreirous. You will travel back in time thanks to the ancient architecture of the houses whose blond stones captivate you. Of the artisans settle in these residences during the summer period.
Continue your journey to the 12th century Romanesque church, the jewel of Saint-Léon sur Vézère!
No. 3. An artistic meeting
Take advantage of this walk in the town to meet the different artists of the village. During your visit you will have the chance to meet several types of crafts : author/illustrator, wood carvers, jeweler, potters, dressmakers [and other artists]. Make unforgettable encounters in the Vézère Valley!
No. 4. Castles nestled in lush greenery
In the town of Saint Léon sur Vézère, you cannot miss its magnificent castles and manor houses.
First, discover the La Salle Manor and Keep. You will enjoy a very nice point of view from the keep overlooking the gardens and the entire village. This jewel of Saint-Léon sur Vézère heritage has recently been open to visitors.
A few steps away is the Clérans castle. This one is a bit hidden, stay alert! The castle is not open to visitors but is one of the atypical seasonal rentals in Saint-Léon sur Vézère.
No.5. A little culinary detour in a wonderful setting
In the evening or at midday, come and enjoy the restaurants present in the village of Saint-Léon sur Vézère. You will also find there picnic areas or alternatively glaciers for a gourmet break. In this village, there is something for everyone! Typical restaurants, semi-gastronomic ones, snacks and even a vegetarian restaurant.
Little advice: take advantage of the river banks for a little digestive break.
No. 6. A village that exudes tranquility
Picnic tables, little corners of grass... Let yourself be lulled by the sound of water flowing, birds passing by and by the sound of church tower… A haven of peace in the Vézère Valley.
Motorhome friends, come and enjoy the sweetness of Périgord in Saint-Léon sur Vézère.
You will find a Motorhome area and a Municipal campsite along the river. Ideal for enjoying the many activities on site.
Le Camping Le Paradis, rated 5 stars and labeled “green key”, welcomes you in a natural setting with its many activities and its large locations to enjoy this village classified among the Most Beautiful Villages in France. So, you like it ?
No.7. The Vézère river, at the heart of the history of Saint-Léon
Walk past the church and go down to the edge of the river. River, as often in the communes of Dordogne, was a major tool for the development of this village since Roman times. Port Léon was a flourishing port in the Vézère valley.
Thanks to the guided tour offered by the tourist office in summer or that programmed by the Conquil site, travel over the centuries and along the water. You will then understand the strategic point of this village on the barge commercial journeys, these flat-bottomed boats characteristic of the Dordogne.
No. 8. A sporting destination
Did the rest do you any good? Come on! We put on our sneakers and set off for a few hikes around the village. You will enjoy nature, small climbs as well as some passages in the forest for a refreshing walk in summer! Hiking circuits and trail routes can be downloaded.
Why not saddle up in this corner of paradise in Périgord Noir? By mountain bike or on horseback, enjoy an even more sensational ride! Adapted circuits await you at the tourist office.
A canoe trip on the Vézère?
And if it's too hot, put on your hat and head to the canoe bases, near the Vézère river.
Let yourself be carried along the water, aboard a canoe, in magnificent places.
No. 9. With family ?! Treat yourself to a moment of leisure
Near Conquil, you will find a branch and a dinosaur park. Ideal to do with the family!
Passionate about Dinosaurs ? This is the opportunity to learn a little more about these specimens.
Passionate about climbing? So, fill up on sensations and let yourself slide through the zip lines from the Prehistobranch. You will benefit from a amazing views on Saint Léon sur Vézère while remaining in the shade.
No. 10. Close to many must-see tourist sites
13 minutes from Lascaux caves in Montignac-Lascaux
5 minutes from Castel Merle in Sergeac
7 minutes from Roque Saint Christophe in Peyzac-le-Moustier
10 minutes from Thot Park in Thonac and the Fortified House of Reignac in Tursac
15 minutes from Madeleine Village in Tursac and Saint-Amand de Coly, another Most Beautiful Villages in France in the Vézère valley
It's impossible to be bored in Saint-Léon sur Vézère. Everyone will find something to enjoy there. So, don't hesitate to book your accommodation : hotels, guest houses, furnished, close to this village in Périgord Noir. The tourist office guides you in this search.
