Varied landscapes for the whole family
The Dordogne is renowned for its magnificent and varied landscapes. From lush green valleys to dense forests, medieval castles and picturesque villages, there’s something for everyone. For families, this diversity means you can enjoy walks, bike rides or even horseback rides, while discovering spectacular panoramas. The Dordogne valley, with its magnificent limestone cliffs and winding rivers, is an ideal place for family walks, with sites such as La Roque-Gageac and Domme offering breathtaking views.
Outdoor activities for all ages
The Dordogne is packed with outdoor activities perfect for the whole family. One of the most popular activities is canoeing down the Dordogne. The calm rivers and picturesque scenery offer a safe and enjoyable experience for children and adults alike. You can hire canoes in towns such as Castelnaud-la-Chapelle or Beynac-et-Cazenac, and spend an unforgettable day on the water while discovering the medieval castles and hidden caves that line the river. Families can also take advantage of the many hiking and biking trails available in the area. The trails of the Périgord Noir, with their lush forests and winding paths, are child-friendly and allow you to discover the local flora and fauna while enjoying the fresh air. For a more leisurely activity, why not explore the gardens of Marqueyssac, an ideal place for family walks amidst hanging gardens offering panoramic views over the Dordogne valley?
Fascinating historic sites for a family history lesson
The Dordogne is also a place steeped in history, perfect for curious families. The Château de Beynac, one of the most beautiful in the region, offers a plunge into medieval history and lets children imagine themselves as knights and princesses. Guided tours are accessible and suitable for families, making it an ideal activity for combining fun and learning. The Lascaux caves are another emblematic site in the Dordogne not to be missed by the whole family. Famous for their cave paintings dating back over 17,000 years, these caves offer an insight into the history of prehistoric art. The Lascaux IV replica allows visitors to explore these ancient frescoes in a protected environment, and is perfectly suited to children thanks to interactive and educational tours.
Fun and educational activities
The Dordogne also offers activities specially designed for children. Theme parks and playgrounds abound in the region, offering plenty of space for youngsters to have fun and get active. The Forêt des Singes animal park in Rocamadour and Le Bournat park in La Roque-Gageac are perfect places to combine fun and learning while discovering animals or exploring reconstructions of old farms and traditional trades. Local markets in the Dordogne are another family-friendly activity. Children love discovering local produce, such as foie gras, walnuts and cheeses, while enjoying the local entertainment taking place in the region’s villages and towns.
Gastronomy for the whole family
Perigord gastronomy is another of the Dordogne’s strengths. The local cuisine, based on fresh produce and specialties such as foie gras, truffles and canelé, will delight the taste buds of the whole family. Many restaurants and inns offer child-friendly menus, and you can sample regional dishes in authentic settings. A family meal in a covered market or out in the countryside is an opportunity to sample local flavors while sharing a pleasant moment together.
