It’s not just about lazy days by the pool, leisurely strolls around morning markets or the discovery of a 30,000 year old underground abyss in the Dordogne Valley. For years, the region has been a hot spot for adrenaline junkies looking to let off steam in some rather delicious locations. Miles of rugged landscapes run along the winding Dordogne river offering vacationers the chance to perfect their sport or try their hand at a new activity.
The stunningly verdant and voluptuous countryside, dotted with castles, ruined keeps, hamlets and medieval bastides provides limitless opportunities for outdoor sports (and the chance to do a bit of sightseeing at the same time).
Activities
The New Outdoor DestinationLoads of activities...in the best locations
Thrills and hills
The Dordogne Valley is a land where rock climbers scale granite gorges, paragliders jump into canyons, mountain bikers pit themselves against twisting hills and kayakers paddle along fast-flowing water with the promise of a visit to a lovely chateau to help them get their breath back.
Number one destination for ramblers, the Dordogne Valley is criss-crossed with thousands of great walks both on and off the beaten track. Stumble across un-mapped prehistoric caves, troglodytes and medieval ruins that are either tucked away in a limestone cliff or nestled into a wooded hillside.
Getting wet
If it’s not a walk you’re after, then a day drifting down the Dordogne on a canoe, canyoning in the forest’s hidden waterfalls or fishing on one of the region’s rivers or leisure lakes should be just the ticket.
But if you prefer to stay on dry land, another favourite pastime for vacationers is golf. Whether you live for the game or indulge in a casual tee-off, the Dordogne is the ideal place to practice your swing whilst enjoying the region’s stunning scenery.
By and large, wherever you end up in the Dordogne Valley, its varied landscapes make it impossible not to embark on some sort outdoor adventure with the family. So trainers on, it’s gonna be one heck of a ride!
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Hiking and cycling
The natural beauty and rich architectural heritage of the Dordogne Valley are major attractions for travelers looking to relax, unwind and get closer to nature. The region is renowned for its hundreds of footpaths accessible to everyone, from short family strolls to more challenging hikes.
Sports and outdoor activities
Loads of outdoor activities to enjoy physical exercise in a beautiful natural environment
Fun with the Kids
If you’re planning a family trip to the Dordogne Valley, there are hundreds of way to enjoy the beautiful weather, do the cultural visits, admire the fantastic countryside, tuck into the scrummy food and keep those little monsters happy at the same time.
Here is our Top 10 of great activities that everyone is bound to agree on (because family holidays in the Dordogne Valley always end in happy memories!)
The definitive guide to fishing in the Dordogne Valley
Plan a fishing trip with the help of our essential information. Find out when to fish with top tips on where you can fish, fishing permits and the types of fishing activities on offer.