Exploring Dordogne France for Adventure & Romance

Canoeing the Dordogne River: Spend a half-day or more exploring the medieval villages along the river. This is made easy and fun with a family-friendly canoe trip. Many outfitters are in the region to rent you a canoe, and after your adventure, they will return you to your starting point. Bring a picnic and take a dip and enjoy a day on the water.

Cro-Magnon Caves: This area is known by anthropologists and historians around the world for its pre-historic cave art. You will have the opportunity to see amazingly preserved and exquisitely detailed artworks from 18,000 - 10,000 B.C. Make sure to plan ahead to get tickets into these caves with strict visitor limits. Or visit the International Center for Cave Art at Lascaux to see exact replicas in a well-organized and informative museum.

Marqueyssac Gardens: Marqueyssac Gardens with its Via Ferrata, is a stop for beauty and adventure. A national historic landmark, this 19th-century chateau is situated on a bluff and surrounded by thousands of meticulously pruned plants. There are also miles of maintained walking paths. For adventurers, an admission ticket includes their Via Ferrata. You will walk 300 feet up on a dramatic cliff wall, safely secured to the lead line. Challenge yourself on the iron stairs, rungs, pallets and beams attached to the cliff and the views will not disappoint!

Take a hot air balloon ride: You can’t beat the sights of this region from above! Most of these vendors are located in the must-see town of La Roque-Gageac.

Visit a Foie Gras Farm: Learn about this regional delicacy from the families who have been making it for centuries.

Visit the Château de Beynac: Placed high on a river bluff, this Chateau is one of the best preserved in the region.

Gueule & Gosier Restaurant: Artful cuisine with a modern take on French dishes in a picturesque narrow alley in town. They also have great vegan options.

Auberge Le Mirandol: Classic French cruise served in a natural cave along a corridor in Sarlat. This restaurant is known for its duck options and unique, romantic setting.

Chez le Gaulois: Known for its charcuterie and wine pairings, try their Foie Gras trio menu, the region's delicacy. Grab a reservation and sit on the patio for a lovely evening.