What to do during a weekend in the Dordogne?
Dordogne is an ideal tourist destination for family holidays or weekend breaks in the Dordogne Valley. Between sporting and cultural activities, the range is wide enough to offer you a true change of scenery.
Its lush green spaces, vineyards, and the richness of its cultural and natural heritage will take you on a journey, even over a short weekend. If you are planning a short stay in Dordogne, here are the must-do activities for your weekend in the Périgord. Whether you are travelling with children or not, we offer activities suitable for both young and old for a refreshing and memorable break.
Visiting Sarlat: what to do in Sarlat over a weekend?
The most famous medieval town in Dordogne is a must-see. For a weekend in Dordogne, explore the historic centre of Sarlat-la-Canéda. This town boasts exceptional architecture and is well worth a visit. You can discover it on foot, taking time to gain some height and enjoy different views over the surrounding countryside. Enjoy wandering through its narrow streets, visit the market, explore the small typical shops filled with Périgord specialities, and try the charming traditional restaurants of this beautiful town.
You will quickly realise that Sarlat is a must-visit in the Dordogne department, where both children and adults can enjoy a weekend full of discoveries and a real change of scenery, in the heart of a landmark town with many listed monuments.
The town also offers green spaces where you can stroll freely and enjoy shaded areas to rest between visits, or discover the town from a different perspective during a canoe trip or a hiking excursion that will take you to higher viewpoints and reward you with breathtaking views.
The Vézère Valley or the Céou Valley and hills for a scenic walk
The Vézère Valley
Located 20 km from the medieval town of Sarlat and 25 minutes from our friendly 3-star campsite, it offers a wide range of activities depending on where you are. You can go canoeing or kayaking in the heart of the natural Vézère setting while passing through some of the most beautiful villages in the department such as Les Eyzies, Limeuil or Montignac-Lascaux. Along the river, many developed beaches are available so you can relax by the water in the shade of the trees — ideal activities for a short stay in Dordogne.
Water activities are enjoyable from spring onwards, allowing you to make the most of the first sunny days of the year. For those who enjoy picturesque experiences, you can opt for boat trips on traditional gabarres, large historic boats where the cruise is often accompanied by a guided tour.
If you still have time, nature lovers will enjoy a hike or bike ride in the Vézère Valley, to explore and appreciate the countryside during your weekend in Dordogne.
The Céou Valley, a very charming natural area
Less well known, it is a charming and very peaceful area, especially in the low season. If you are coming to discover the Périgord Noir for a weekend, we strongly recommend enjoying this exceptional natural setting. If you focus your stay in this part of Dordogne, here are our suggestions:
- Take a walk through villages listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France near the Céou Valley such as Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Mazeyrolles or Villefranche-du-Périgord. These typical regional villages will impress you with their remarkable architecture. The ideal place for a romantic weekend!
- For many years, the Céou Valley and its hills were a vineyard. Discover the history of this area through the buildings and structures dating from that period. If you would like to learn more, you can visit the Maison de la Pierre Sèche, which tells the story of the wine-growing builders;
- The valley’s mild climate allows exceptional vegetation to flourish. Various nature activities are available along the Céou such as fishing, horse riding, walking, or canoeing and kayaking.
Other activities to enjoy during a weekend in Dordogne
Of course, this list is not exhaustive — you can find many more activities on our website. Here are a few others you might enjoy:
- Visit the caves and chasms of Dordogne such as the Lascaux cave;
- Go for a ride on horseback, by bike or on foot along the marked trails;
- Visit the most beautiful villages in Dordogne;
- Visit the castles and gardens of Dordogne;
- Taste the gastronomic specialities of Dordogne such as Périgord salad made with foie gras, duck gizzards and slices of duck breast — a much-loved local speciality that lets you enjoy duck in all its forms.
As you can see, whatever season you choose to visit Dordogne for a weekend, there is a wide variety of activities available. Whether as a family, with friends or as a couple, you will find something to suit everyone.
You will be able to enjoy nature and recharge during this weekend in the countryside. Many holiday rentals offer weekend packages to discover Dordogne from as early as April, including campsite accommodation. Don’t hesitate to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the low season — you won’t be disappointed.
Where to stay during a weekend in Dordogne?
If you want to fully enjoy the peaceful, lush natural surroundings that the Dordogne department offers, choosing a campsite for your weekend accommodation is the best option.
Our family-friendly, nature-focused campsite is a 3-star site located in the heart of the Périgord Noir, set in a calm and relaxing natural environment.
La Lénotte offers excellent quality services and is ideally located near Belvès in the Périgord Noir. Our ideal location will allow you to enjoy many activities to discover our region, depending on your interests, even during a short stay.
At the campsite, we offer mobile home rentals, motorhome pitches, and even safari-style tents. There is something for every taste and every budget. Don’t wait any longer — book online or contact us!