The cradle of prehistory
Lascaux: the Sistine Chapel of prehistory
The Vézère valley, known as the cradle of prehistory, is home to some of the most famous decorated caves in the world. The Lascaux caves allow visitors to admire prehistoric paintings in a modern and perfectly preserved setting.
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac: the world capital of prehistory
Nearby, the village of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac is considered the world capital of prehistory. Its museums and archaeological sites offer a comprehensive overview of cave art and the lives of Palaeolithic humans. maxange
Other caves and prehistoric shelters
For those who want to get off the beaten track, the region has some less frequented but equally fascinating caves and shelters: Tourtoirac, Maxange and the Commarque site offer an authentic experience of prehistoric heritage.
Several campsites are ideally located for visiting these caves and prehistoric sites, such as Lascaux Vacances**** in Saint-Amand-de-Coly and Le Mas*** in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, offering easy access to the sites and a pleasant natural setting for families.
Medieval villages and fortified towns of the Périgord Noir
Sarlat-la-Canéda and Domme: medieval heart
Start by visiting Sarlat-la-Canéda, the capital of the Périgord Noir, with its cobbled streets and mansions. A few kilometres away, the hilltop bastide of Domme offers exceptional views over the Dordogne. The Huttopia Sarlat**** and Les Chalets du Périgord*** campsites are ideal for exploring the cobbled streets and enjoying the views over the valley.
Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac: villages in the Dordogne valley
Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac charm visitors with their medieval appeal and golden stone houses. These picturesque villages are perfect for strolling around and discovering Périgord architecture. Recommended stay: The Beau Rivage*** campsite in La Roque-Gageac is an ideal starting point for exploring the villages along the Dordogne.
Belvès and Villefranche-de-Périgord: bastides in the hinterland
In the south of the Périgord Noir, Belvès and Villefranche-de-Périgord offer a quieter, more authentic atmosphere, ideal for exploring the medieval hinterland. The Moulin de la Pique***** campsite in Pays de Belvès is the perfect base for exploring the hinterland at your leisure.
Terrasson-Lavilledieu and Marqueyssac: panoramic views and gardens
The Jardins de l'Imaginaire (Gardens of the Imagination) in Terrasson-Lavilledieu and the hanging gardens of Marqueyssac complete the visit, with spectacular panoramic views over the Dordogne valley. Choose, for example, the Moulin de Paulhiac**** campsite in Daglan, which combines gardens and panoramic views with comfortable accommodation.
Castles and fortresses
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle and Beynac-et-Cazenac: medieval witnesses
The castel of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle overlooks the Dordogne Valley and houses a museum dedicated to warfare in the Middle Ages. Nearby, Beynac-et-Cazenac charms visitors with its fortified castle and medieval streets, which bear witness to the history of the region's lords and battles.
Château de Marqueyssac in Vézac and Milandes: heritage and legends
The castel of Marqueyssac in Vézac, surrounded by French gardens, offers an elegant setting typical of the Dordogne valley. The Château des Milandes, former home of Josephine Baker, combines history, architecture and cultural events.
To visit the main châteaux of the Périgord Noir, such as Castelnaud, Beynac and Vézac, the Les 2 Vallées**** campsite in Vézac is a convenient base, while the Le Repaire*** campsite in Thiviers and the Port de Limeuil**** campsite also offer easy access to these sites.
Gastronomy and local produce
Markets and local produce
The Périgord Noir is renowned for its authentic markets where you can find truffles, walnuts, mushrooms and local cheeses. Sarlat, Domme and Belvès host regular markets where you can discover the expertise of Périgord producers.
Foie gras and duck specialities
No visit to the region would be complete without sampling foie gras, confits and duck breast. These specialities, emblematic of the Périgord, can be enjoyed at local markets, farms and restaurants.
Wines and gourmet pleasures
The wines of Bergerac and the South-West are the perfect accompaniment to the region's typical dishes. Wine cellars and estates offer tastings and tours to discover the local grape varieties.
Nature and hiking
Dordogne Valley and panoramic views
The Dordogne Valley offers exceptional landscapes, with cliffs, picturesque villages and calm waters. The paths along the river are accessible to all, offering spectacular views of villages and châteaux at every turn.
Forests, limestone plateaus and plateaus
The Périgord Noir is not limited to the valley: its forests, plateaus and limestone plateaus are ideal for hiking and observing the flora and fauna. Numerous marked trails allow you to discover the region's natural wealth, from hundred-year-old oak trees to chestnut groves.
Canoeing, swimming and freshwater leisure activities
The Dordogne is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, with routes suitable for families and thrill-seekers alike. The region also has plenty of natural swimming spots and water sports centres, perfect for cooling off and enjoying the scenery.
Campsites in the Périgord Noir
You will find a wide range of campsites in the most beautiful parts of the Périgord Noir (see all campsites in Périgord). Among our selection, we would like to highlight the high level of comfort offered by the aptly named Le Paradis ***** campsite in Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, open from April to October with nearly 300 pitches, including around 50 rentals. You can also enjoy an excellent holiday from April to September at the La Palombière ***** campsite in Sainte-Nathalène, very close to Sarlat, with more than 240 chalets and mobile homes.
For those who want to enjoy the Dordogne river, the Domaine de Soleil Plage***** in Vitrac, Les Rives de la Dordogne** and Le Perpetuum**** in Domme offer direct access to the river, perfect for swimming, canoeing or paddleboarding. For a quieter, more natural stay, the La Bouquerie – Les Truffières de Dordogne***** campsite in Saint-Geniès offers shaded pitches and comfortable rentals.