France Medieval Villages Odyssey

This 7-day trip will take you on an enchanting voyage through the heart of Nouvelle-Aquitaine region in France, where every day unfolds like a chapter in a fairytale. This tour offers a tapestry of experiences that weave together the rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights. Take in the highlights of three departments of Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Dordogne, Lot & Corrèze. From the medieval charm of Bergerac to the cliffside villages of Rocamadour and Turenne, each stop invites you to step back in time and immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of France. Wander through ancient streets lined with half-timbered houses, explore majestic castles perched atop lush hills, and indulge in the flavors of regional cuisine bursting with local ingredients and traditions. Whether you’re marveling at crystal caverns, savoring wine in sun-kissed vineyards, or simply soaking in panoramic views of rolling hills and meandering rivers, this journey promises to awaken your senses and leave an indelible mark on your soul. This itinerary can be changed and adapted to your liking. It is a great choice for families traveling with children, for couples seeking a romantic escape and for all nature lovers, wine lovers, and gourmets out there.

07 Days – From £3,100 per person

*equivalent in USD, EUR accepted

Itinerary: Dordogne, Lot, Corrèze

Included

Price is per person, based on two people sharing in a double/twin room
Accommodation with breakfast (upgrades to superior hotels and chateaux possible)
10-day car-hire: vintage car with manual transmission (full tank at pick-up, insurance, technical assistance)
App with GPS
Car delivery to the door of your hotel
Entrance fees to all mentioned sites
All mandatory local taxes
24/7 assistance in English during your trip

Excluded

Visa, where applicable
International & Domestic Flights / Train Ticket
Personal Expenses
Travel Insurance
Meals not mentioned in the description
Additional kms
Photographer, Guide, Driver (can be arranged on request)

Flights

International flights are not included in the package price. We give you the freedom to book the flights yourself, use miles and choose your preferred airline, and if you are stuck we can help you find the right connections. The starting point is Bergerac Airport (EGC). You can also fly to Bordeaux (BOD).

Alternatively, travel by train to Perigord or Bergerac to start the trip.

How to Book

Send us an email to check availability, discuss your preferences and get a quote.

This is a sample itinerary and prices are correct at the time of writing. We can tailor it to suit your plans by changing the length of the trip or the order of activities. More days can be added.

The best time to visit the Nouvelle-Aquitaine is from April to November.

Day 1 - Wine, Caves & Food

Today you will arrive in Bergerac, in the heart of Dordogne. Explore the town, then head to Château Monbazillac vineyard (14 min) for wine tasting. Later, visit Gouffre de Proumeyssac (50 min), a mesmerizing cavern adorned with stunning crystal formations. Next, visit the medieval village of Belvès (20 min). Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the ancient buildings, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere. Then, visit the prerehistoric caves and archaeological sites in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil (25 min). Have memorable dinner at the the charming Le Vieux Logis restaurant in Trémolat (27 min). Overnight at Château les Merles.

Day 2 - Hilltop Villages & Castles

Today visit the medieval village of Beynac-et-Cazenac (20 min). Explore the castle and enjoy the panoramic views. Continue to Château de Castelnaud (10 min), a medieval fortress featuring impressive collections of medieval weaponry. Next, visit the marvellous French gardens of Marqueyssac (10 min). Continue to La Roque-Gageac (6 min) for lunch. Try traditional specialties such as duck confit and walnut cake. Take a scenic boat ride along Dordogne river. Continue to the picturesque medieval village of Domme (11 min). Taste the local cheeses such as Rocamadour, Cabécou, and Bleu des Causses, paired with fresh bread and honey. For dinner head to L’Esplanade, which offers breathtaking views of the valley. Overnight at Hotel L’Esplanade.

Day 3 - Sarlat & Rocamadour

After breakfast, visit Sarlat-la-Canéda (18 min), a beautiful town dating back to the 14th century. Try the regional delicacies such as truffles, sausages, artisanal cheeses and visit the majestic cathedral. Next, continue to the breathtaking village of Rocamadour (1 hour), perched high above Alzou River gorge. Explore the narrow streets lined with medieval houses, historic chapels and churches. Climb the Grand Escalier, a monumental staircase leading to the sanctuary of the Black Madonna. Soak in the splendid views while enjoying lunch. Try traditional dishes, such as confit de canard. Then, visit Gouffre de Padirac (25 min), one of the most spectacular natural sites in France. Explore the vast caverns on a guided boat ride along the underground river. Overnight at Les Vieilles Tours.

Day 4 - More Hilltop Villages

After breakfast, visit Autoire (12 min), a charming village nestled in a verdant valley surrounded by cliffs. Soak in the peaceful ambiance of this idyllic place. Walk to Cascade d’Autoire (20 min), a stunning waterfall cascading over a sheer cliff. Continue to the medieval hilltop village of Loubressac (8 min). Explore the narrow streets and visit the 11th-century church. Enjoy the panoramic views. Then, visit Château de Montal & Château de Castelnau-Bretenoux (11 min), two magnificent Renaissance châteaux with beautiful gardens and views. Finish day in the picturesque village of Carennac (15 min), located near the peaceful river. Overnight at Manoir de Laroque Delprat.

Day 5 - Red Village & Turenne

After breakfast, visit the red village of Collonges-la-Rouge (30 min) with houses dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Admire the intricate carvings and ornate doorways, and visit the 11th-century church, with its striking bell tower and Romanesque architecture. There are several charming restaurants where you can enjoy local specialties such as walnut cake or pastries made with chestnut flour. Next, continue to Turenne (12 min), a medieval hilltop village perched high above the surrounding countryside. Explore the winding streets lined with ancient stone houses, visit the 14th-century church, and take in panoramic views of the rolling hills of the Corrèze region from the ramparts of the castle. Overnight at Château de Lissac.

Day 6 - Uzerche & Perigueux

After breakfast, visit the picturesque town of Uzerche (40 min), known as the “Pearl of Limousin”. Stroll through the medieval streets lined with half-timbered houses, marvel at the imposing abbey and explore the artisan shops and galleries. Continue to Ségur-le-Château (30 min), a medieval gem of the Corrèze region. Wander through the narrow streets lined with ancient stone houses, visit the 12th-century church, and take in panoramic views from the castle’s ramparts. Continue to Château de Hautefort (35 min), a stunning castle boasting beautiful gardens and opulent interiors. Enjoy stunning landscapes of rolling hills and lush forests while driving to Perigueux (50 min). Overnight at Château de Belet.

Day 7 - Departure

After breakfast, drop the car off at the Bergerac Airport (50 min) and take your onward flight. Or, if you want to discover the Mediterranean Coast of France, we propose to fly to Marseille or Nice and explore Provence. Here you will find a detailed program. Alternatively, fly to Toulouse and make your way to Perpignan, then discover the beautiful places all along the coast, all the way till Marseille, or even further, till Nice. Here is the second proposed itinerary to follow. Both can be done the other way around and adjusted according to your available time.

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