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Nature, culture and adventure AROUND THE GOUFFRE DE PADIRAC CAVES

Are you a nature lover? A cultural enthusiast?  An eager adventurer? Whatever kind of holidaymaker you may be, you will necessarily find something great in our region.
Splendid landscapes full of greenery, water, caves, chasms and rocks are waiting to be discovered along our many paths, inspiring daydreams and wonderment in our visitors. With its steep cliffs, still waters and rapids, mountains and forests, our environment makes for a natural playground for budding and experienced athletes alike. Between cycling, paragliding, rowing, rock climbing and more, anything is possible!
And what can we say about the region’s historical and architectural heritage? With more than 1,000 châteaux in Périgord alone, plus mediaeval towns, designated Cities of Art and History and villages identified as the most beautiful in France, there is plenty to here to quench your thirst for culture and sightseeing.
Discover our selections of must-see sights!

Sarlat-la-Canéda WONDERS AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE

Known for holding the record for the density of its sites listed as Historic Monuments or appearing in the national heritage inventory, Sarlat-la-Canéda will win you over with its architectural treasures, its picturesque mediaeval streets, its yellow stones and its tilestone roofs which endow it with unique charm. Come for a stroll. You will not be disappointed!

Rocamadour, mediaeval gem Built into the cliffside

Overlooking the Alzou Canyon, Rocamadour will take your breath away! A sacred town with dizzying views, you will happily lose yourself in its winding streets, appreciate the beauty of its Saint-Sauveur Basilica and Saint-Amadour Crypt (inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List) and make sure to stop by to admire its Black Madonna, which has been worshipped for 1,000 years.

Gouffre de Padirac caves A unique experience

The most iconic of France’s chasms is open to you. What does this hole measuring 35 metres wide conceal? This natural cavity descending 103 metres into the earth features magical scenery of stalactites and stalagmites developing around an underground river with limpid waters. An excursion by boat and on foot is sure to make lasting memories for you. 

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Châteaux and panoramic views

As a designated “Most Beautiful Village in France”, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is worth a visit. Overlooking the confluence of the Céou and Dordogne Rivers, this villages boasts a splendid view of the Dordogne Valley and remarkable architectural heritage. It is famous for two châteaux, one of them home to the Museum of Mediaeval Warfare.

Martel Steam Train A fantastic, original voyage

Choo-choo! All aboard for a memorable outing on the Martel Steam Train. Pulled by a real steam engine or a powerful diesel engine, you can discover the Dordogne Valley via the old railway line carved into the cliff at an altitude of 80 metres.

Caves and caverns With incredible scenery

The Grottes de Lacave (pictured here) are located just 20 minutes from the campground. Ride into the heart of the mountainside on board an electric train and admire the caves’ 12 fascinating galleries and their naturally phantasmagorical décor. While you’re here, be sure to check out the famous prehistoric caves at Pech Merle and Lascaux!

Marqueyssac Hanging Gardens Bucolic and romantic

Masterpieces of topiary art, these gardens overlooking the Dordogne Valley are a real marvel! Come for a stroll and let your mind wander as you pass by the 100-year-old hand-sculpted curving box hedges. The most frequently visited gardens in Dordogne, Marqueyssac offers 15 hectares of waking dreams.

Bears, otters, eagles, monkeys and more: Animal parks For a sense of wonder

Tucked away in the Causses du Quercy Natural Park are three parks unlike any other: Gramat Animal Park (pictured here), Le Rocher des Aigles (“Eagle Rock”) and Forêt des Singes (“Monkey Forest”), the latter two in Rocamadour. Bears, wolves, bison, eagles, macaques and more: pleasure and discoveries for one and all.