Top 5 ideas for outings in the Vézère Valley
- Julien Toupart
- Nov. 25, 2025
- 3 min read
Last update: Dec. 5, 2025
From the treasures of the earth to majestic buildings, the Vézère Valley takes you on an exceptional journey.
1 stroll through our picturesque villages
Our picturesque villages have a unique charm that will captivate you.
The " Most Beautiful Villages of France " Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, Limeuil and Saint-Amand-de-Coly will not leave you indifferent: cobbled streets, sun-kissed golden stones, slate roofs and verdant panoramas sculpted by the Vézère and the Dordogne... Each village tells the story of Périgord Noir, each stone whispering centuries of life.
But the magic of the Vézère Valley doesn't stop at the villages with the label! Other treasures, more discreet, are worth discovering:
Did you know that Les Eyzies is nicknamed the "world capital of prehistory"? Built in the hollow of majestic cliffs, this village boasts an exceptional concentration of caves, rock shelters, archaeological sites, and museums—bearing witness to more than 400,000 years of human history. Strolling through Les Eyzies is like diving into the origins of humanity, surrounded by cave art, prehistoric tools, and landscapes sculpted by time.
Fancy an unusual, surprising walk? Then head for Rouffignac-Saint-Cernin-de-Reilhac. This modern village, rebuilt after the devastation of World War II, has reinvented itself, preserving only one pre-war landmark: a 16th-century church.
2 Marvel at the heart of the caves
In the "Vézère Valley" family, I'd like to see the caves! Ornate (Rouffignac, Font-de-Gaume, Combarelles, etc.), they reveal the artistic talents of our ancestors; with concretions (Grand Roc, Proumeyssac, etc.), they illustrate the sculptural genius of Mother Nature. When you go underground in Périgord Noir, you'll be amazed!
3 Discover the troglodyte sites
Discover our fascinating troglodytic sites, such as the Village of La Madeleine, La Roque St Christophe and Le Conquil, offering a unique experience on the cliffside.
• The village of La Madeleine reveals a genuine medieval cave dwelling, where you can still imagine the daily life of families perched above the Vézère River.
• La Roque Saint-Christophe impresses visitors with its immense cliff carved with natural shelters, a veritable "suspended city" exploited since prehistoric times.
• Le Conquil combines nature walks with rock-hewn ruins, offering a fun journey into the heart of a little-known troglodytic site.
4 Visit the iconic castles of périgord
Here, it's like living in a castle! For the period, we'll let you choose from our many buildings.
Do you prefer the Renaissance style ? Head to Château de Losse and its magnificent gardens.
For the Middle Ages, head to the enchanting and mysterious Commarque Castle.
5 Enjoy the tranquility of the Vézère River
Sometimes athletic, often contemplative, canoeing offers a timeless experience of nature . Sheltered by our beautiful vegetation, follow the rhythm of the river to catch glimpses of castles, villages, cliffs, and troglodytic sites...
From Montignac-Lascaux to Limeuil, paddle in complete serenity thanks to calm waters without rapids. canoe trip on the Vézèreis sure to be the highlight of your stay in the Dordogne!
