If you’d like to take to the open seas this summer, breathe in the oak forests, paddle the Dordogne or stroll through the medieval streets of one of the most beautiful parts of the South West, then head for the Sarlat region. It’s a special part of France, between cliffs, rivers and perched villages, where you can easily move from prehistoric remains to a plate of foie gras on a terrace.
It’s a region we know by heart. I (Floriane) am originally from the Dordogne, and every summer we spend a few days there as a family to discover new places.
In this article, we propose a 4-day road trip around Sarlat, ideal for taking in all the must-sees of the Périgord Noir, while leaving time for simple pleasures: walks, historical visits, swimming and gourmet breaks.
Day 1 – Lascaux and Sarlat: two treasures to start the journey
This first day gets off to a flying start: Lascaux in the morning, Sarlat in the afternoon. Two emblematic sites, very different, but both unmissable in the Périgord Noir.
Drive to Montignac, some twenty kilometers from Sarlat, to visit Lascaux IV, the faithful, ultra-modern replica of the famous painted cave. Even if it’s not the original, the experience is well worth the detour. The scenography is breathtaking, and the identical reproduction of the paintings literally transports you into the world of these prehistoric artists.
But the visit doesn’t stop there: the interpretation center offers an interactive museum, with digital workshops, tactile and immersive devices. Discover how prehistoric man made pigments, created reliefs and played with light. Allow half a day to enjoy the whole experience.
After a lunch break in Montignac or a picnic in the countryside, set course for Sarlat-la-Canéda. Even if you’re already familiar with the town, you’ll be charmed all over again. Sarlat is a life-size movie set, with its cobbled streets, golden facades, lauze roofs and shady squares.
If it’s market day (Wednesday or Saturday), let yourself be tempted by the local produce: foie gras, walnuts, cheeses, homemade jams, chestnut pastries…
➡️ To explore the area around Sarlat, we particularly recommend two Homair campsites offering comfort, tranquillity and an ideal location.
- The Aqua Viva 4-star campsite, nestled in the heart of nature, just fifteen minutes from the medieval town of
- The 5-star Domaine de Soleil Plage, on the banks of the Dordogne, is the perfect base for visiting the most beautiful villages and enjoying water sports.
Both structures feature large swimming pools, perfect for relaxing after a day’s sightseeing.
If you’re looking for a natural, comfortable camping experience in the Dordogne, these two establishments are real gems.
Day 2 – Dordogne Valley and canoeing from La Roque-Gageac
On this second day, we head for the majestic Dordogne valley, home to some of the most beautiful villages in the Dordogne. You’ll pass through landscapes sculpted by time: pale stone cliffs, calm waters, perched fortresses and listed villages… a day rich in discovery and wonder.
Start at the clifftop village of La Roque-Gageac, the perfect starting point for a canoe trip. Rent a boat for 2 to 3 hours of leisurely cruising. Glide along the river between cliffs, forests and small hamlets.
On your return, treat yourself to an artisanal ice cream or lunch on the terrace, before heading back to Beynac-et-Cazenac. You may already have heard of Beynac: its majestic château was the setting for the film “Les Visiteurs” and is now the village’s claim to fame. This medieval castle, perched on a rocky spur, is one of the best preserved and most authentic in the region. The view from the ramparts is spectacular.
Day 3 – Vézère Valley: nature, caves and villages
A change of atmosphere. Less well known than the Dordogne valley, the Vézère valley abounds in treasures, particularly prehistoric ones. This is where you’ll find a unique concentration of UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Start at La Roque Saint-Christophe, a spectacular troglodyte site carved out of an immense limestone cliff. Here you’ll discover how man has inhabited and exploited this natural shelter for millennia. The view over the valley is impressive, and the visit really is accessible, even with children.
Next, head for Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, one of the region’s most beautiful villages, ideal for a riverside lunch break. The atmosphere is peaceful, with narrow streets, blonde stone houses and shady terraces.
In the afternoon, head for Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, nicknamed the world capital of prehistory. Take the time to visit the Musée National de la Préhistoire, a fascinating place to better understand human history and the major discoveries made in the region. You’ll see tools, fossils, reconstructions… it’s an excellent complement to Lascaux, with a more scientific and archaeological approach.
Round off your day at the campsite, relaxing by the pool or enjoying a well-earned aperitif on the mobile home terrace.
Day 4 – Local flavours and a visit to Périgueux
For your last day, head north to Périgueux. Start with Saint-Front Cathedral, then stroll through the narrow streets of the old town. If it’s market day, take the opportunity to sample the local specialities.
Have lunch on a terrace or improvise a picnic, then visit the Vesunna museum or take a stroll along the Isle. The perfect way to round off your stay.
Why choose camping to discover the Dordogne?
- Total immersion in nature
- An ideal base for touring without changing accommodation
- Perfect for families: kids’ clubs, swimming pools, entertainment
- Good value for money
- Close to all outdoor activities
- A friendly, simple and relaxed atmosphere
Conclusion
Four days to experience the Dordogne in a nutshell: charming villages, picture-postcard landscapes, canoeing, caves, markets and quiet evenings at the campsite.
With a comfortable mobile home as your base camp, it’s easy to alternate discoveries. You’ll enjoy freedom, comfort and a real return to basics.
