Dordogne Valley holiday gites cottages In France

There is a wealth of things to do within easy reach – watersports enthusiasts will love the clear swift waters of the Dordogne for canoeing, kayaking and boating, while lovers of fishing will find an abundance of trout and pike. Those who like walking will enjoy the numerous walks in the surrounding countryside. There are many picturesque villages such as Bretenoux, Carennac, Loubressac, Autoire, Gluges, Meyronne and Turenne each with architecture so typical of Quercy. Or visit the wonderful chateaux of Castelnau, Montal, Belcastel and La Treyne.

Other sports such as tennis and golf are also nearby. This region has been called ‘the Kitchen of France’ and you can be assured of excellent food. It specialises in duck and goose products (the home of foie gras) and other gastronomical delights include truffles, asparagus, walnuts and strawberries. The vineyards of Cahors and Bergerac are also within reach. Visit some of the many caves in the area including the Gouffre de Padirac which you can explore both on foot and by boat and marvel at the 94-metre high arched roof of Grand Dome and the beautiful Lac Supérieur 27 metres above the river bed. No visit to the area is complete without a visit to the beautiful medieval village of Rocamadour which, with its chateau and abbey, clings to the perpendicular side of the valley.