Highlights:

• Medieval fortified villages

• Spectacular Rocamadour

• Castlenau Castle

• Autoire waterfall

Brief:

⏱ Duration: 5 - 7 Days
🗺 Distance: 82 km
⛰ Difficulty: Moderate
🗓 Best Time: Apr-May/Sep-Oct
🛏 Accomm: B&Bs/Small Hotels

Walk Overview

The quiet pathways of the upper Dordogne river valley are rich in history and natural beauty. The presence of many fortified medieval chateaux and villages is testament to the fact that this was long disputed territory and the Dordogne River acted as a natural dividing line between the warring factions.

The area of the upper Dordogne river valley highlighted in the map above passes through some of the most beautiful rural landscape in France and visits storybook villages. The pathway offers a wonderful mix of moderate riverside walking and hillside hiking with views across the valley. The surrounding countryside features tranquil woodlands, lush farmland, open limestone plateaux, river valleys and deep gorges.

Walks can be commenced at any of the towns or villages highlighted on the map. The charming town of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is convenient and well-located in terms of walks to the other villages. Its old town precinct is lined with traditional half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, historic Romanesque churches and adorned Renaissance architecture. From Beaulieu, you can walk to several other medieval villages built of golden coloured stone including Port de Gagnac, Castelnau, Autoire, Carennac, Meyronne and Rocamadour.

Nothing quite prepares you for the astounding first sighting of Rocamadour village which is dramatically built into the cliff face of the Alzou gorge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an important pilgrimage site on the Way of Saint James. Rising up 120 metres, Rocamadour is built on three levels comprising riverside houses, monastic buildings and a clifftop castle - a fitting end to a unique trail.

Assistance and further information:

• For assistance with walking in the Dordogne valley, click the button below.

• For more information on walking in France, click the button below.