The Dordogne rivers are places for wonderful and adrenaline filled adventures. They have also created the reputation of the Dordogne and Périgord, offering exceptional scenery and privileged views of the most beautiful riverside castles along 150 km of safe canoeing. The scenery and landscapes are interspersed with forests, beaches, meadows and typical stone villages. Go back in time whilst gliding along the river and discover the History of Périgord.
Why not try one of the beautiful canoe trips? A good opportunity to enjoy one of the many rivers of the Dordogne.
Grab your gear and set off on an afternoon to discover the historical and natural heritage of our little paradise! Everyone in the water! You will find all the tips on the website dedicated to canoeing in the Dordogne.
Our favourite months are September and October with the arrival of autumn and the beautiful colourful landscapes of the valleys and riverbanks. It is also the time of year ideal for landscape photography and hiking so don't forget your camera!
Our favourite course: the Dordogne Valley... real film sets on the menu
Having decided to go canoeing, it will be difficult to choose a course from the many offered by the 60 canoe rentals. We suggest you start with the Valley of Castles circuit and explore the Dordogne River by canoe! It is one of the French rivers reputed for the quality of its water. Your first halt will be Château de Castelnaud or Château de Beynac with some breath-taking views for photographers! Then continue to discover some of the most beautiful villages of Périgord and France such as Domme or the picturesque village of La Roque-Gageac. You will be amazed by this picture-postcard scenery. Enjoy a swim and immortalize these magical moments.
Ideal family course: La Vézère... and its many beautiful villages
You will be spoiled for choice for canoe rental on the Vézère River at Saint-Léon sur Vézère or Les Eyzies. Don't forget to visit the village market and buy local products for the picnic before setting out! Glide along and enjoy the constantly changing landscapes and panoramas. Choose a place for an improvised picnic and enjoy a nap in the shade before setting off again!
Continuing the descent of the Vézère you will surely pass under the steep cliffs ... unique to the Dordogne. Raise your eyes to discover the troglodyte villages of Roque Saint-Christophe and La Madeleine. The Vézère Valley is also nicknamed "the valley of Man" referring to all the prehistoric sites and shelters under these most remarkable rocks. If you have time for another day, visit the decorated caves of Font-de-Gaume or Les Combarelles at Les Eyzies de Tayac, the "world" capital of Prehistory!
"Nature and discovery" course in the Périgord Vert villages
Natural heritage lovers will be spoiled for choice with many trips available on the River Dronne in the Périgord Vert, its environment and its preserved fauna ... kingfishers, dragonflies and grey herons, all inhabit the riverbanks and can be seen along your route. It's time to get out the binoculars!
You will certainly go to Brantôme, the "Green Venice of Périgord", navigate the canals and admiring the picturesque village surrounded by waters and famous for water jousting and the Cave of the Last Judgment! Legend has it that, in the first centuries of Christianity, hermits lived in the caves or outbuildings that tat the time served as refuges for the monks of the Abbey. The most mysterious of them and surely the most impressive is that of the last judgment. A compulsory detour! If you have time, visit Château de Bourdeilles, a collection of medieval buildings dating from the Renaissance.
Course 4: for adrenaline lovers and strong sensations
This trip on the Auvézère River is for you! Its mills, its cliffs and essential sites such as the Chapel at Auberoche or the Blâme waterfalls.
Find out more: - More information about the Dordogne rivers - More information about the Vézère Valley
Find out more about experiences to live in Dordogne-Perigord: download the brochure
By Rédaction France.fr
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