Dordogne's Hidden Treasures on Foot - 8 Days
Tour Overview
Discover the Hidden Treasures of the Dordogne on this enchanting 8-day walking tour through the picturesque landscapes of France. Wander through the lush Dordogne Valley, explore medieval villages, and marvel at hilltop castles and bastides. Stay in carefully selected 2* and 3* hotels, each offering character and comfort with ensuite facilities. Savor the exquisite cuisine that France is renowned for, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the region, from ancient ruins to stunning caves. This self-guided adventure promises breathtaking views, cultural delights, and the charm of "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France." ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Cressensac-Sarrazac
Location: Cressensac-Sarrazac
Accommodation Name: Hotel La Bonne Famille
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive at the tiny village of Cressensac-Sarrazac, deep in a green valley on the edge of the Causse de Martel.
Accommodation: Hotel La Bonne Famille is a 3 * Logis. The cellar of this establishment was formerly a smithy where, three generations ago, the blacksmith’s wife would serve refreshments to waiting customers. The hoteliers are as hospitable as their ancestors, the smithy has vanished, and guests are housed in a venerable building with swimming pool nearby. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Sarrazac to Meyssac 14 km/8.7 miles
Location: Meyssac
Accommodation Name: Le Relais du Quercy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Near the half-way point is the picturesque village of Turenne, with its famous castle towering over the surrounding countryside. The dark red sandstone of Collonges' mullioned windows and towers is a stunning sight, as you approach it in the afternoon. Ascent 396m/Descent 420mAccommodation: Le Relais du Quercy is a comfortable 2 * Logis hotel with pool near the centre.
Day 3 : Meyssac to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne 23 km/14 miles
Location: Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Beaulieu
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Over undulating country to Curemonte, a mediaeval village where the writer Colette once lived. The day ends with a long descent of an ancient cobbled mule-track into Beaulieu. The town is built on the right bank of the Dordogne and owes its fame to the Romanesque church of the former Benedictine monastery. Make sure you take the time to visit the Abbey Church with its magnificent doorway. Ascent 588/Descent 626mAccommodation: Hotel Le Beaulieu is a well-appointed 3 * hotel in a quiet street, close to the Dordogne, where you can dine overlooking the water on a summer’s evening.
Day 4 : Beaulieu to Carennac 17 km/10.5 miles
Location: Carennac
Accommodation Name: Hotel Fenelon
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you’re walking from the department of the Correze to the Department of the Lot. The day begins with a climb up through woodland where you will find 3 nature information posts. The walk continues with sweeping views across the countryside. Cross the Dordogne river to approach Carennac and take the time to enjoy wandering the winding streets of this beautiful village. Ascent 345m/Descent 365mAccommodation: You stay at Hotel Fenelon this is an elegant family-run hotel 2 * Logis with swimming pool in the centre of this lovely and historic village on the banks of the Dordogne. Excellent restaurant with a good local reputation.
Day 5 : Carennac to Loubressac 14.7 km/9.1 miles
Location: Loubressac
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Cantour 354
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you walk along the limestone ‘causse’ to the Gouffre de Padirac which is an underground maze of majestic tunnels and stalactites. You can take an underground boat ride here to discover the magnificent caves in all their beauty. We recommend booking your visit online to ensure easy access as you don’t have to queue if you have pre booked. www.gouffre-de-padirac.com. Allow 2.5–3hrs minimum walking time as the Gouffre is 8.9kms from Carennac. There are plenty of places for refreshments if you arrive early, you don’t want to miss your pre-booked tour time. Ascent 352m/Descent 171m >> *Note: Loubressac is one of those rare villages that are still able to evoke another time and place. The following extra walking options are available so why not consider an extra night here. Please find details in the 9-Day Itinerary tab and in the 'Options & Supplements' section below. > Option 1: Complete Circuit - Chateau de Castlenau, Autoire & Cirque - 19.5km/12 miles. It is worth walking around the castle with it's excellent views all around the ramparts.> Option 2: Chateau de Castelnau Circuit - 14km/8.7 miles> Option 3: Autoire & Cirque Circuit - 13.5km/8.4 miles. Autoire has fine old houses or "gentilhommierers". Autoire is listed among the 157 prettiest villages in France. --- Alternatively, just take a day off and explore this village with its important buildings such as the church of Saint-John Baptist, built in the 14th century. Another highlight of this village is the fantastic views in almost all directions.Accommodation: Hotel Le Cantour 354 is a 2 * Logis hotel. It is located in the middle of this very pretty village and opposite the 'village green'. It is perched at 354 metres where you can see the Dordogne, Causse, Cere Valley & Segala on a clear day.
Day 6 : Loubressac to Rocamadour 20.5 km/12.7 miles
Location: Rocamadour
Accommodation Name: Hotel du Lion d'Or
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you retrace your route to Gouffre de Padirac and thereafter follow quiet leafy lanes and tracks through beautiful countryside to arrive at the viewpoint at L’Hospitalet, from here take time to enjoy a stunning view of the ancient pilgrimage site, the village of Rocamadour perched on a steep cliff. Ascent 295m/Descent 452mAccommodation: You spend 2 nights at the 2 * Hotel du Lion d'Or. It is a beautiful and authentique establishment composing of two separate buildings situated approx 150 meters apart.
Day 7 : Rocamadour circular walk 11.2km/7 miles
Location: Rocamadour
Accommodation Name: Hotel du Lion d'Or
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today there is an optional circular walk around Rocamadour. This is an easy to medium route and will take no longer than 3.5 hours. You might want to walk it in the morning before visiting all the sights. Ascent 407m/Descent 407m
Day 8 : Arrangements end after breakfast
Location: Rocamadour
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departure from Rocamadour after breakfast.
What's Included
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Accommodation
7 or 8 nights in 2* & 3* hotels -
7 breakfasts, 6 dinners (8 breakfasts, 7 dinners for 9-Day option)
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7 (or 8) nights accommodation in 2* & 3* hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
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One piece of luggage per person transferred between your accommodation, not exceeding 20kg
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Digital information pack including navigational app
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Emergency hotline
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GPX files on request
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Lunches & Beverages
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Entrance fees
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Travel insurance
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Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
What's Not Included
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Lunches & Beverages
Lunches and beverages are not included in the tour package.
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Entrance fees
Entrance fees to attractions and sites are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not provided and must be arranged separately.
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Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip
Transportation to the starting point and from the end point of the trip is not included.
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Personal expenses such as laundry and phone calls
Personal expenses, including laundry and phone calls, are not covered.
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Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
Any unscheduled transfers required during the trip are not included.
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Excess Luggage
Charges for excess luggage are not included.
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A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
An additional supplement is required for solo travelers or those booking a single room.
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Guide - this is a self guided holiday
This is a self-guided holiday, and no guide is provided.
Accommodation
7 or 8 nights in 2* & 3* hotels. Accommodation is in 2* & 3* hotels. All the accommodation has ensuite facilities. The hotels described are our usual choice of accommodation, however if these are not available then alternatives are used and if these are of a different standard you will be informed at the time of booking. Baths/showers: Many rooms with ensuite/private facilities have a shower rather than a bath, usually because of limited space. Some hotels/guesthouses may however have a separate room in the house where a bath is available to guests. ...more ...less
Grading
This walk is graded: ‘Moderate’(grade 3) and should present no difficulties for anyone in reasonable condition and accustomed to walking. Day stages: 14.7km to 23km per day with average altitude gains of 350m. 3 to 7 hours walking per day.
Mode of Transport
No specific transport details are provided for this tour. Travel to the start and from the end point of the trip is not included.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides accommodation in 2* and 3* hotels, all with ensuite facilities. The specific hotels mentioned are the usual choices, but alternatives may be used if these are not available. You will be informed at the time of booking if the alternatives are of a different standard. ...more ...less
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 6 dinners. For the 9-day option, it includes 8 breakfasts and 7 dinners.
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Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?
Yes, one piece of luggage per person, not exceeding 20kg, will be transferred between your accommodations.
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What kind of support is available during the tour?
An information pack including route notes and maps is provided, and there is an emergency hotline available for support.
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Are entrance fees included in the tour package?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour package.
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Is this a guided tour?
No, this is a self-guided holiday.
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What is the difficulty level of the walks on this tour?
The walk is graded as 'Moderate' (grade 3) and should present no difficulties for anyone in reasonable condition and accustomed to walking. Day stages range from 14.7km to 23km per day with average altitude gains of 350m, and walking times range from 3 to 7 hours per day.
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What happens if I am traveling solo or want a single room?
A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.
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What are the starting and ending points of the tour?
The tour starts in Sarrazac and ends in Rocamadour.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour?
Some highlights include walking in the Dordogne Valley and surrounding hills, rambling on the riverbank and around the villages, visiting hilltop castles and bastides, and exploring medieval villages, ruins, and caves.
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Self-guided holidays - inclusions
We have designed our self guided walking and cycling tours to include a number of elements to help you enjoy your holiday more, while leaving out some things to give you more freedom to tailor the trip to your needs and interests. Refer to the Trip Notes for more information on the specific inclusions for each trip. What’s included: - Detailed Route Notes - Accommodation - Luggage transfers - Any scheduled transfers as per Trip Notes - Emergency support - Some meals (mostly breakfasts) What’s NOT included: - Transport to/from start/finish points - Most meals - Any entrance/park fees - Travel insurance - Personal expenses along the way - Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
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Trip Grading & Preparation
Match your level of fitness & requirements Please read this information carefully to find out which grade is most suited to your level of fitness and requirements. To make the most of your Walkers' Britain holiday it is essential and your responsibility to choose a trip that is well within your capabilities. All our active holidays are graded and clearly marked in each trip description. All mountains have uphill and downhill sections and by definition walking and cycling demand some effort. However all things are relative, and these grades assume that you are a reasonably active person who enjoys walking or cycling. Few trips are extreme and most allow ample time for sightseeing and enjoying the scenery. If in doubt about the grade of any holiday, please contact us for advice or request the tour dossiers, you can also chat with our team about the right travel insurance for you. Grade 1 – Introductory These trips involve walking for four to five hours per day or cycling for 15-50 km per day at a slow but steady pace. You will need a reasonable level of fitness and good health. Suggested Preparation 30 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (either road cycling or jogging), three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 2 – Introductory to Moderate These trips involve a combination of what is described in our Introductory and Moderate levels. The emphasis is on introductory activity but including several moderate stages. Grade 3 – Moderate These adventures involve walking for up to six hours per day or cycling for up to 65 km per day, at a steady pace. You will need a good level of fitness and be in good health. Suggested Preparation 45 minutes of aerobic-type exercise (road cycling or jogging) three times a week for three months leading up to your trip. Grade 4 – Moderate to Challenging This trip grading involves a combination of what is described in our Moderate and Challenging levels. The emphasis is on moderate activity but including several challenging stages. Grade 5 – Challenging These active holidays involve walking up to nine hours per day in mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents, pass crossing & alpine weather conditions, or cycling for up to 80 km per day over undulating terrain, with some steep and sustained hills. You will need an excellent level of fitness, be prepared to carry a daypack weighing up to 8 kg and be completely comfortable in adverse weather conditions. Suggested Preparation 1 hour of aerobic-type exercise five times a week for three to six months leading up to your trip. We also recommend regular hill walking with a pack in variable weather conditions or road cycling.
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Route notes
While our tours vary in terms of difficulty, route finding is made simple and convenient with our specially prepared package of maps and route notes. On many of the walks it is easy enough to navigate carefully using the route notes provided with a cursory glance at the map. As holidays reach the higher grades, you will need to take more care and we would expect you to have at least some knowledge of using a compass. Maps for our tours also vary considerably, from up-to-date GPS referenced additions, to old map copies which may still be the only ones obtainable for a particular area. The differences in style, grade and destinations of our tours are features that make them of continual interest and delight to our walkers & cyclists. Each set of route notes can contain the following elements relevant to the route: History and information on the region and the route you are walking. Detailed maps including points of interest and accommodation. Detailed step-by-step descriptions (with pictures) of the route and information on detours/optional additions. Transport timetables and information for getting there and away. Safety information and advice. Contact details of accommodation, transport, local representatives and emergency support. Advice for things to do along the way. Suggestions for dining and self catering.
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How our self-guided holidays work
Self guided walking and cycling holidays offer freedom, independence and choice, allowing you to tailor your holidays in the UK & Europe to your interest and travel style. Our detailed Route Notes will contain all of the information you need to plan how you would like to approach each day, giving you the freedom to set your own pace. As you are not limited by the constraints of group travel, you are free to shorten or lengthen your walk as the terrain permits and can even take a day off, although you may need to travel onto your next accommodation by taxi or public transport in order to do so.
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Low Deposit
Walkers' Britain requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of walkers' britain charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Dordogne's Hidden Treasures on Foot - 8 Days
8 Days Starting in Sarrazac, France and ending in Rocamadour, France
Visiting: Cressensac-Sarrazac, Meyssac, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Carennac, Loubressac, Rocamadour
Tour operator:
Tour code:
JD8
Group Type:
Independent
Guide Type:
Self Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
