Family outings in the Dordogne: unmissable activities
The Dordogne is considered one of the most beautiful departments in France. Located in the north of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, it is made up of four areas (Périgord Pourpre, Périgord Noir, Périgord Blanc and Périgord Vert), all of which are worth visiting!
Indeed, the Dordogne is full of attractions such as the Lascaux caves, the Regourdou Park, the Périgord Noir Aquarium, the Padirac chasm, the Calviac Zoological Reserve and the Château de Beynac. This diverse cultural heritage appeals to many visitors.
These various tourist activities make the department ideal for family outings. In this article, discover the best trips and activities to enjoy with your children during a family stay in the Dordogne.
Visit the hilltop bastide of Domme
During your family outings in the Dordogne, be sure to visit the iconic hilltop bastide town of Domme. On site, professionals offer guided tours aboard a small tourist train. You can also discover the graffiti made by the Knights Templar at the Porte des Tours.
During the visit, you will be invited to decode the secret hidden behind these graffiti — a fun activity for younger visitors.
You can also stroll along the belvedere and enjoy a panoramic view over the Dordogne Valley.
Go canoeing with the family on the Dordogne or the Vézère
We recommend a canoe trip on the Dordogne. During the descent, you will be able to admire the Valley of the Périgord castles.
You will notably have views of the Château des Milandes, the Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and the Château de Beynac.
During your trip, you will also discover several prehistoric sites visible from the river.
A stop in Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère is perfect for a picnic, a swim or simply relaxing in the shade of the trees.
Visit Dordogne castles with the family
After your canoe trip, you can visit the castles of the Périgord.
The Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
A medieval masterpiece from the 13th century, it houses a museum of medieval warfare with weapons, armour and siege engines. Activities are organised throughout the year for children.
The Château de Beynac
Located in Beynac-et-Cazenac, it is one of the best-preserved castles of the Périgord Noir and is listed as a historic monument. It offers an exceptional panorama over the Dordogne Valley.
The Château des Milandes
Former home of Josephine Baker, it presents her life, its gardens and a bird-of-prey show.
Family walks in the Dordogne
Explore the most beautiful trails of the Dordogne, safe and suitable for family hiking. A refreshing and scenic experience.
Between cultural heritage and natural landscapes, the Dordogne offers many fun activities for both children and adults.
Discover the Lascaux caves
Located in Montignac-Lascaux in the Vézère Valley, the Lascaux cave is one of the most important decorated caves of the Upper Paleolithic period.
A must-see during a family stay in the Dordogne.
The Calviac Zoological Reserve
Located in Calviac-en-Périgord, the reserve is home to nearly 200 animals from five geographical zones. Its special feature is the close proximity visitors can have with certain species.
An ideal outing to raise children’s awareness of wildlife conservation.
Stroll through the Marqueyssac Gardens
Located in Vézac, the Marqueyssac Gardens are listed among France’s remarkable gardens and offer more than 6 km of walks bordered by centuries-old boxwood trees.
A perfect walk for nature lovers.
The Périgord Noir Aquarium
The largest private freshwater aquarium in Europe, it features more than 6,000 fish spread across 66 tanks.
A fun discovery of aquatic wildlife for the whole family.
You can book your stay at La Lénotte campsite, a family campsite located in the heart of the Périgord Noir near Sarlat.
