canoe trips dordogne river

Kayak and canoe descents and hikes on the Dordogne, between Lot and Corrèze

Expert in outdoor activities since 1978 for a 100% pleasure canoe trip on the Dordogne.

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Want to discover the Dordogne by canoe-kayak?

Embark with us to discover the treasures of the Dordogne Valley .

The Dordogne by canoe-kayak means experiencing the river differently, embellished with cliffs, perched castles and atypical landscapes. Without forgetting the numerous villages classified among “The Most Beautiful Villages of France” : Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Carennac, Souillac or even Laroque-Gageac and Beynac.

At the bend of an island, little corners of paradise are hidden, treat yourself to the privilege of a wild swim .

Whether you come for a stroll of a few hours or an itinerant hike lasting several days , you will definitely leave conquered! Picnics by the water or bivouacs under the stars in the Black Triangle of Quercy are an opportunity to discover the little hidden corners of the Lot, Corrèze and Dordogne.

Safaraid team is waiting for you to embark on the Dordogne by canoe-kayak.

Choose from our canoe and kayak routes on the Dordogne

The wild one

Departing from Argentat

1h30 or 3h30 trips

The essential

Departing from Vayrac

Trips between 1:30 a.m. and 7 a.m.

The three castles

Departing from Saint Sozy

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The Canoë France app | Blog | Press kit (15MB)

05 65 37 44 87

[email protected]

Every day from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. (Rental out of season, contact us)

SAFARAID DORDOGNE Base de Loisirs des Granges 46110 VAYRAC, France

Our Vayrac base will open its doors on June 6, 2024!

We look forward to seeing you on our beautiful river

www.carlucet.com

Award winning, 5 Star Cottage & Villa Holiday Homes, near Sarlat, Dordogne

The best canoe trips on the Dordogne & Vezere rivers

Posted by Kerry & Tomas Activities , Blog No Comments

Dordogne river

Gently meandering down the Dordogne river in a canoe on a sunny day is one of the most peaceful and enjoyable days activities to do in this spectacular region.

Without a doubt, it’s the best way to see the river, the wildlife that inhabits it and some beautiful villages and Chateaux that lines its banks.

Canoes can be rented for 1 to 4 people. One of our favorite routes is from Vitrac to Castelnaud la Chapelle where you will gently glide past the beautiful Hill top Bastille town of Domme and La Roque Gageac, voted the third most beautiful town in France. You will arrive at the foot of the magnificent Chateau Castelnaud la Chapelle, where the canoe company will pick you up and take you back to your car.

This route takes about 2.5 hours. You can continue to the stunning village of Beynac which takes 3 hours. The company we recommend for this route is Canoes Loisirs .

There are many places to pull up your canoe and have a swim or a picnic along the way.

The canoe hire company will give you a large plastic drum to put all your personal things in and will keep them dry in the very unlikely event of your canoe capsizing.

They also supply you with life jackets so its very safe for children. Children from age 5 are allowed in the canoes.

Vezere river

There are many other beautiful routes of varying lengths along both the Dordogne and also the Vezere river.

The most beautiful canoe route along the Vezere is from Thonac to Tursac which takes about 3 hours. You will go passed the beautiful village of St. Leon sur Vezere, some magnificent Chateaux and also see some amazing rock formations and prehistoric dwellings. We recommend Canoë Vezere for this trip.

« The best bike rides through the Dordogne Countryside | Discover the 5 Best Sightseeing Trips in the Dordogne »

Canoeing the Dordogne River, France

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updated 25.07.2019

Have you ever fancied paddling in speckled sunlight past ancient châteaux and honey-hued villages, stopping off for a spot of gentle sightseeing and ending the day with a well-earned foodie feast? If so, then canoeing the Dordogne river in southwest France is just the ticket.

The Rough Guide to canoeing the Dordogne River

Dordogne canoe rental, travel ideas for france, created by local experts.

14 days  / from 3922 USD

An active walking tour out of the way in France

Your trip starts with an in-depth introduction to France in Paris: several unique day excursions connect you with local Parisians to show you their city and way of life. Afterwards continue south to start a few days walking journey through Southern France before ending around Avignon.

10 days  / from 2450 USD

Southern France – Walks in the Alpilles and Lavender fields

Start your tour in the coastal city of Marseille, exploring Cassis on the way. Around the Alpilles in Provence, you will be provided with detailed walking materials to explore the area on foot, from both Les Baux and St Remy. End your tour in famous Avignon.

12 days  / from 2995 USD

Tasting Eastern France

A delicious yet active journey through Eastern France. Start your trip in Lyon with some unique food tours before setting off on a 4-day walk across the Beaujolais region. Almost every day ends with a wine tasting in your guesthouse, soothing for body and soul.

For a 170km stretch from Argentat down to Mauzac the Dordogne River provides classic canoeing. The scenery is glorious and varied, there are umpteen first-class sights within a stone’s throw of the water and the choice of accommodation ranges from convivial campsites and rustic village inns to luxury hotels in converted châteaux. The free-flowing river also offers a variety of canoeing conditions to suit beginners upwards, and though it’s hardly white-water rafting, some of the Dordogne’s rapids are sufficiently challenging, particularly in spring and early summer, to give at least a frisson of excitement.

Canoeing past the Château de Beynac along the Dordogne River, Southern France © Canadastock/Shutterstock

Keen canoeists should start at Argentat, from where it takes roughly ten days to paddle downstream. The river here is fast, fun and more or less crowd-free. Beyond Beaulieu, the current eases back as the river widens and the first limestone outcrops and sandy beaches (perfect for a picnic lunch) start to appear. Souillac marks the beginning of the most famous – and busiest – stretch of river.

If you can only spare one day, then paddle from Souillac, or Domme, to Beynac where the river loops beneath beetling cliffs from which medieval fortresses keep watch from their dizzying eyries. At water level you glide past walnut orchards, duck farms and houses drenched in geraniums.

The crowds fall behind as you slip past Beynac. There are fewer sights and the scenery is more mellow, though the Dordogne has one final treat in store at Limeuil where it splits into two great channels that meander across the floodplain. Tie up your canoe and head for the limestone cliffs on foot for a bird’s-eye view of this classic Dordogne scene.

For an ad-hoc day trip, there are numerous canoe rental companies that pop up along the Dordogne during the summer months offering rental by the day or half-day. For a multi-day trip or to try canoeing as part of a wider visit to the region, Rough Guides has paired with an experienced local tour provider – get in touch for more information.

Top image: Chateau de Castelnaud, Dordogne Rive, France © Peter Adams Photography L/Shutterstock

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Canoeing on the Dordogne on the most beautiful routes! Canoe Relaxation at the Port of Enveaux

The Dordogne is a very popular destination because it has one of the most beautiful canoe/kayak routes in France. On the Dordogne, the Espérance River, Canoë Détente offers comfortable canoe kayak trips (with backrests! ) for a moment with family or friends. You will appreciate the beautiful view of the castles of the Dordogne Valley, the charming villages of the Périgord Noir, the superb landscapes of the Dordogne... Departure by bus, return by canoe, to navigate at your own pace, stop as much as you want, swim, have a picnic… Come and enjoy a sporting moment during your stay in Périgord!

Photos of the article: Canoë Detente

Go canoeing down the Dordogne

The Dordogne is a river that can be easily navigated with family or friends, even when you are a beginner ! This is the great strength of the Dordogne, offering the discovery of this sporting and leisure activity for everyone ( from 5 years old ). During your holidays in Périgord Noir , the essential activity to do is a canoe or kayak descent . Canoë Détente is a canoe base that has existed here for more than 20 years , but the whole family settled there in 1887! Ideally located, Port d'Enveaux is a pretty place to discover, which runs along an arm of the Dordogne , in a very picturesque environment . A little off the beaten track , there are fewer people in summer than in the center of the large tourist villages nearby. You can park easily and for free all day.

The beach in front of the Canoë Détente base

Canoë Détente offers you 3 routes depending on the time you have, your desires and your physical condition!

• The Circuit des 3 Châteaux is 7 km long, you will need about 1h30 to 2h to complete this route. You will pass in front of the Château de Fayrac , the Château de Beynac on its rocky promontory and the Château des Milandes which is located opposite the canoe base.
• The Circuit des 6 Châteaux is 14 km long, allow half a day to do it at your own pace. After having skirted beautiful rocky escarpments, you will pass in front of Roque Gageac , then you will pass the Château de la Malartrie , to then reach Castelnaud and its castle which sits proudly in front of the waves, and finally the Marqueyssac Gardens which can be seen far away. You then rejoin the previous route.
• The Circuit des 7 Châteaux is 28 km long, count on a good day of adventure and sport! You will leave from Carsac to discover a little sailed part of the Dordogne, wild and intimate . Rocks, cliffs, birds… Small islands to play Robinson! The Château de Monfort stands in a bend in the river (a meander), then the Rocher de Caudon greets you, it overlooks the water. La Bastide de Domme looms in the distance, then you join the previous circuits at La Roque Gageac.

During the activity it will be necessary to wear a life jacket (provided). The price also includes a waterproof container, a paddle per person and the minibus trip to the starting point. The great advantage of organizing trips with Canoë Détente is that you are dropped off upstream , so you can return to the base by canoe , at your own pace , at the time you want! No need to wait for the bus or calculate your return time...

Comfort in all circumstances

Discover the region along the water

Canoë Détente for a day of family leisure in the Dordogne Valley

Canoë Détente rents canoes and kayaks , but it is also a perfect base for relaxing, as its name suggests! On site, a restaurant / bar / brasserie will allow you to have a snack at any time or have a good meal before or after your emotions on the water. Children's games will entertain the little ones, while the grown-ups can sit on the pretty pebble beach with a shaded grass area . You can sunbathe , go swimming with your family in the Dordogne. A picnic area is available if you have brought something to eat.

Reception at Canoë Détente is provided from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. A motorhome area is available on site.

The Lassignardie family invites you to discover the Ferme du Port d'Enveaux on site. Guest rooms , a studio and a gîte are available if you enjoyed this charming place and wish to stay there for a few days. Port d'Enveaux is ideally located, close to all the major tourist and heritage sites of the Dordogne Valley . Charming villages, gardens and castles are only a few minutes away. For sports enthusiasts, canoeing, tree climbing, cycling, mountain biking, hiking, climbing, many adventures await you!

If you like free-range foie-gras , the Ferme du Port d'Enveaux invites you to discover its producers' shop, with delicious local products, cooked on site. 4 generations of authentic Périgord know-how!

We wish you a beautiful day between sport, leisure, greed and relaxation!

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Length: 483 km Source: Puy de Sancy (63) Estuary: Dordogne

Particularity of the Dordogne

River or river? Two elements support the river thesis: The Dordogne has a estuary with the Garonne and during high tides, a tidal bore (a wave) forms and travels up the course of the river for nearly 30 km . The Dordogne is the only river in France whose entire basin has been classified as a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Classified as a “Land of art and history” in its Lotoise part and a “biosphere reserve” by UNESCO in 2012, the Dordogne is the perfect blend of nature and heritage for a canoe trip . It offers a route of up to 120km of descent, or 7 days of hiking . It is accessible to beginners as well as the most experienced.

By canoe on the Dordogne through Corrèze, Lot and Dordogne

Cliffs, villages and castles will punctuate your descent through 3 departments: Corrèze, Lot and Dordogne . You can then visit the villages of Beaulieu sur Dordogne , Carennac, Rocamadour, Martel, Souillac, La Roque Gageac… Which will also allow you to refuel. Perched at the top of a cliff, the castles of Belcastel, de la Treyne or Montfort will surprise you. Without forgetting the richness of the fauna: gray heron, kingfisher, otter, trout, birds of prey…

The Dordogne has been a source of food and wealth since the dawn of time. Initially with fishing (with a fishing license you can then hunt your dinner!), then with the construction of mills , and then thanks to the transport of goods on flat-bottomed boats called gabares . Thanks to the high quality of its waters, you can enjoy swimming. Its beautiful pebble beaches will also allow you great picnic or relaxation breaks as well as a beautiful space for your bivouacs. “However, be careful not to come across the terrifying Coulobre, a giant (and fortunately mythical!) snake from the Dordogne which made the bargemen disappear! »

An ideal river for a canoe trip with family or friends

In short, you will have understood, the Dordogne offers you an exceptional and preserved site, an ideal place to live a unique experience and create unforgettable memories with family or friends. A canoe trip is the promise of a total change of scenery in the middle of green and wild nature as far as the eye can see. So for a weekend or for an vacation in the heart of nature, try the adventure of canoeing and kayaking.

A nature stay in camping or wild bivouac

Camp all along the route, in wild bivouac or camping. Fill up on greenery by punctuating your stay along the water between swimming and relaxing breaks on the pebble beaches.

14 results displayed

Argentat – Saint-Julien-de-Lampon | 5 days | 91 km

Argentat – Vayrac | 2 days | 41 km

Argentat – Saint-Sozy | 3 days | 59 km

Argentat-Beynac | 7 days | 120 km | The total

Argentat-Souillac | 4 days | 77km

Argentat-Vitrac | 6 days | 107km

Beaulieu-sur- Dordogne – Beynac

Beaulieu-sur- Dordogne – Souillac | 3 days | 59 km

Free hiking EN

Vayrac – Souillac | 2 days | 36km

Vayrac – Vitrac | 4 days | 66km

Vayrac – St Julien de Lampon | 3 days | 50 km

Vayrac-Beynac | 5 days | 80km

The most beautiful places for canoeing on the Dordogne

Do you dream of discovering the Dordogne river by canoe? But with its 483 km in length and 6 departments crossed, knowing where to start can be a real headache! We guide you through the particularities of the most beautiful sections.

From Argentat to Beaulieu-sur- Dordogne : sail in Corrèze

Lovers of wild nature will find what they are looking for from Argentat-sur- Dordogne or its surroundings, in Monceaux for example. Corrèze, and therefore the upper part of the Dordogne , offers particularly green landscapes. This is the least frequented part of the river.

This descent also offers some sensations with two rapids . The Malpas rapid is located between Argentat and Monceaux. For those who prefer to avoid it, leaving from Monceaux will be preferable. There will only be the Battut rapid to pass, easier than the Malpas.

To end this adventure in the great outdoors, you will arrive at the foot of the village of Beaulieu-sur- Dordogne , classified among the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”. Beaulieu is a little haven of peace to spend the rest of the day or even an evening.

> Discover the routes offered by Safaraid on the Dordogne between Argentat and Beaulieu

Between Vayrac and Souillac, the most beautiful canoe route on the Dordogne ... in the Lot

Once you have passed Beaulieu-sur- Dordogne , you will arrive in the Lot where cliffs and castles stand out on the banks. Architecture and landscapes typical of this region all along, it's our favorite route!

numerous cliffs from your canoe-kayak, including those of the Copeyre belvedere or Gluges with its beach just opposite for a well-deserved picnic break. You will see between the trees the well-hidden castle of Mirandol and other bourgeois houses around the corner. At the end of the descent, arriving at St-Sozy, you can visit the village with its square and its small church while waiting for the return bus to Vayrac. The Mijoteurs boutique just opposite will also be a good way to allier relaxation and indulgence.

If you go from St-Sozy to Souillac, then you won't be able to miss the three castles of this flagship descent. The Belcastel castle at the Lacave caves, the Treyne castle and its “Relais et châteaux” hotel and the Lanzac castle. The little extra? At Lacave, you can enter a small cave with your boat. A real moment of freshness during your descent.

To enjoy the cliffs and castles and feel alone on the water, we recommend renting a Vayrac in St-Sozy . The further downstream you choose a route, the busier the Dordogne will be. This is why we recommend that you choose a descent between Vayrac and Souillac if you want tranquility and castles during your canoeing day.

Further down the river, in the Dordogne , you will also find magnificent villages and castles, but the river there will be much busier.

Discover the Périgord and the Dordogne by canoe-kayak

If you want to go down to the part after Souillac, you can choose a rental from remarkable villages like La-Roque-Gageac, Vitrac or even Beynac. The landscapes that you can see from your canoe-kayak are varied and breathtaking ! You will find the cliffs and castles of the Lot with a few more typical villages.

Combine Corrèze, Lot and Dordogne during a canoeing trip

If choosing your descent is too complicated, why not opt ​​for an itinerant canoe-kayak hike on the Dordogne ? From 2 to 7 days, you can go on an itinerant hike to discover Corrèze, Lot and Dordogne . Whether in adventure and bivouac mode or in comfort mode with camping and luggage transport, Safaraid offers a tailor-made offer for all your nature stay desires.

14 rivers for canoeing in France

Vienne by canoe-kayak

The Vézère by canoe-kayak

The Tarn by canoe-kayak

The Sorgue by canoe-kayak

The Orb by canoe-kayak

The Loire by canoe-kayak

The Gardon by canoe-kayak

The Drôme by canoe-kayak

The Dordogne by canoe-kayak

The Chassezac gorges by canoe-kayak in Les Vans

Aveyron by canoe-kayak

Ariège by canoe-kayak

The Ardèche by canoe-kayak

The Allier by canoe-kayak

Canoe-Kayak on the Dordogne river

With a length of 483 km, the Dordogne river rises in the Puy-de-Dôme on the hillside of the Puy de Sancy. Along with the river Garonne it flows into a common estuary, the Gironde, at Le Bec d’Ambès in the département (county) of the Gironde Located in the heart of the Périgord Noir area, the Dordogne valley is a genuine wonderland, boasting high quality heritage sites, ringed with villages and dotted with châteaux. Visitors can discover nature at its best here. The Dordogne is listed by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve.

Enjoy a great holiday in the Périgord Noir! Périgord Aventure et Loisirs guarantees you a relaxing day close to nature. A unique and special day to explore the Dordogne by canoe.

Come along and admire some of the marvellous attractions history has bequeathed us in the form of outstanding heritage sites, perfect for discovering either alone, as a family, in a group or among friends for a half day, full day or weekend! The riverbanks are simply perfect for picnicking and bathing. As you head down the river, you can stop off and visit the area’s charming villages and chateaux, keeping to the schedule agreed at the time of departure.

Travelling along the river, you can admire the following sights from the water’s edge:

• Setting off from Carsac, at the bend, you’ll find the Château de Monfort overhanging its rocky base.
• After Vitrac, the village of Domme overlooks the surrounding area and you will then pass alongside the cliffs of Les Pendoilles,
• The village of La Roque Gageac, officially listed as one of the finest villages in France,
• The Château de la Malartrie,
• The Marqueyssac Gardens overlooking the valley,
• The Château de Castelnaud, famous for its museum of mediaeval warfare,
• The Château de Fayrac,
• and finally the Château de Beynac and its village.

For lovers of fine food, the region is a gastronomic paradise with its foie gras, duck confit, truffles, ceps, walnuts and chestnuts…

Rental service information:

+33(0)553 282 382 or +33(0)683 273 006.

The canoeing centre is open from Easter to All Saints’ Day (according to the water levels in the river).

Opening times: From June to late August: 9:30 AM to 7 PM- April, May, September, October: 10 AM to 5:30 PM.

Please book in advance: by e-mail [email protected] or by telephone.

• Canoes & kayaks: 2-seater canoe, 3-seater, 4-seater (2 adults and 2 children)*
• Kayak: single-seater

A bus will take you to the starting point or back to your coach according to the option you have selected.

GENERAL QUESTIONS NEWS

Regulations/requirements:

– Participants must know how to swim. – Life jackets must be worn. – Enclosed shoes must be worn. – Children under the age of 12 must be supervised or accompanied. – Children under 5 are not allowed*. – Unaccompanied minors must be in possession of an authorisation from their parents or from the person responsible for them.

Recommendations:

– The river is listed as Class I, (suitable for all) – Be sure to respect the river, the environment and the local fishermen. – Dogs are allowed as long as they are on their leads and are not attached to the boat. – Do not dispose of rubbish in the water or on the river banks. – Take care to avoid the harmful effects of the sun! Bring along some sun cream and a bottle of water. Attach your glasses. Ensure that children are well protected. – Do not grab branches or you run the risk of capsizing. Stay in the middle of the river.

Périgord Aventure et Loisirs

Canoe rental on the Dordogne

Present on the guide.

• Read the safety instruction

Descent in Canoe or in Kayak on the River Dordogne

Booking at 06 81 88 96 79 is necessary to manage the flow of people on site. Thank you for your understanding.

I read the safety instructions

consult the safety instructions

Canoe and kayak rental in the Dordogne Valley

A family company since 1977

Situated right in the heart of Périgord, Canoes ROQUEGEOFFRE welcomes you from April till October to Saint Vincent de Cosse. Admire the Valley of the Dordogne since the river and discover most beautiful views on the castle of Montfort, la Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud, Fayrac, Beynac and Milandes.

We have a clean and maintained beach (no watched bathing), a hooked course connect, a snack and private toilet.

For the comfort of some, some boats with backrest.

Lunch on site at the snack bar : Consult the map

Picnic basket available for canoe trips, book your basket at 06 81 88 96 79 !

Descent in canoes or kayaks for the whole family in the Sarlat sector

Manufacturer and rental of canoes on the dordogne since 1977.

Admire the Dordogne Valley by canoe from the river and discover the most beautiful views of the castles of Montfort, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Fayrac, Beynac, Les Milandes.

For the little ones from 6 years old as for the older ones, we offer canoe trips on the Dordogne river of several distances.

OBLIGATIONS AND ADVICE: Be over 6 years old, 👼 – know how to swim 🏊‍♂️ – wear closed and tied shoes 👟 – Sporty or casual dress 👕 👚 Sunscreen, glasses, caps 😎☀️👓

Informations

Where is aux canoës roquegeoffre located, for all the family.

Adults and children (from 6 years old) all able to swim!

Several routes

Several routes on the Dordogne, several distances, several prices!

Some of our boats are equipped with seats with backrests!

We welcome you every day from Easter to October

On site in Saint Vincent de Cosse

Free parking, toilets, beach, snack bar and tree climbing course

• be able to swim
• wear a life jacket
• closed shoes
• respect other users of the river
• respect signs

Canoes Prices (2, 3 or 4 seats)

Warning : Phone observation is recommended

price for 1 adult in canoe

6€ for the children from 5 to 12 years old

Departure at 4h pm or 5h pm only Life jacket and paddles supplied

Tight can 1 €

Kayak rate for adults and children : 14 € per person

LA ROQUE-GAGEAC

Price for 1 adult in canoe

10€ for the children from 5 to 12 years old

3h30 max of boat

Departure at 9h am, 10h am, 11h30 am, 1h pm, 2h pm and 3h pm

Life jacket and paddles supplied Tight can 1 €

Kayak rate for adults and children : 20 € per person

15 € for the children from 5 to 12 years old

5h00 max of boat

Departure at 10h am only

Life jacket and paddles supplied

Kayak rate for adults and children : 27 € per person

News Canoë Dordogne

Reserve now by phone 06 81 88 96 79.

Advised phone reservation

Your obligation before the departure

The children of less than 5 years are not allowed to embark Be able to swim Wearing of shoes closed and life jacket Respect the other users of the river

06 81 88 96 79

[email protected]

Au Canoë Roquegeoffre Du Port D’enveaux 148 Enveaux, 24220 Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse

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Canoe trips on the water

Canoe kayak trips on the vezere and dordogne rivers.

We offer different formulas of canoe trips for several days, to enjoy the marvellous landscape of our magnificent valley, at your own pace in total freedom.

Price details

• Rates are for 1 pers.
• 1/2 price for children under 12 , regardless of his seat in the canoe
• N o extra charge for kayak

The service includes : equipment rental (boat, paddles, buoyancy aid vest, waterproof barrel), transport by minibus, insurance … and advice.

The advantage of these formulas is the change of scenery and the peace of mind!

Priority reception for online reservations.

Very flexible cancellation conditions :

• Free cancellation 24 hours before the start of the activity
• Date change possible due to bad weather

During several days, you are on the adventure, without a car, only surrounded by the water and it’s aquatic fauna, on your own.

You are free to organize your stop over for the night. Bivouacs are tolerated in certain areas (with your equipment and in respect of the environment), you can also enjoy quality campsites, local hotels.

Discover our different canoeing offers and rates

Choose according to your wishes and your budget the desired number of days … Each day consists of about 3 to 5 hours of canoeing, but you can spend as much time as you want on the water and choose your overnight anywhere you want to.

Light and spacious, “NOVA CRAFT” or “POTOMAC” our 2-seater canoes directly imported from Canada will transport you through the unspoilt nature and wildlife of our rivers for a unique experience!

2 days canoe trip Vézère

2 days canoe trip Vézère/Dordogne

3 days canoe trip on the Vézère and the Dordogne

4 days canoe trip Vezere-Dordogne

Click on our “good addresses” for a list of campsites by the water and choose your stops!

Safety instructions :

• Be able to swim 25m.
• From 5 years old.
• Wear your attached buoyancy aid.
• Have closed shoes (if necessary, we sell aqua shoes for €10).
• Navigate in the middle of the river.

Do not forget :

• Your camping gear, food and water.
• We offer sandwiches, paninis and croque-monsieurs in our snack bar. You can also buy food at St Léon, Les Eyzies and Le Bugue.
• To tie your glassesTo respect our friends the fishermen and private properties at the edge of the water.
• To keep your trash with you, we have garbage cans at your disposal on the base.

Kayaking in the Dordogne

The Dordogne is considered one of the most beautiful rivers for paddling in Europe. The natural course of the river alone, with its ever-changing character of hills, meadows and steep cliffs, makes every paddler’s heart beat faster. In addition, castles, fortresses, medieval villages and caves characterise the Dordogne Valley and make a canoe trip a cultural experience. We have been on the Dordogne for 6 days and in this article we would like to take you with us back on the river and share our adventure with you.

Key facts about the paddling tour

castles, medieval villages

Public transport

Traffic noise

rarely and little traffic noise

cliffs, meadows, hills

Table of Contents

The Dordogne as a paddle region

The Dordogne is a 305 miles (490 km) long river in the southwest of France. The region is considered an Eldorado for paddlers thanks to its diverse nature with picturesque valleys and rocks, its well-preserved and restored villages and castles. The shallow course of the river (max. white water class II) and the mild climate attract numerous paddle beginners and families to the region every year.

The 93 miles (150 km) long section between Argentat and Limeuil is particularly interesting for river paddling. The section is mostly natural and only limited by two weirs, which can be easily circumnavigated with a boat slide. The highlight of every Dordogne tour is without doubt the section between Vitrac and Beynac-et-Cazenac with its distinctive castle landscape. After Beynac-et-Cazenac the landscape becomes less exciting, but on this section up to Limeuil you can end the tour in peace even in high summer. Behind Limeuil the river becomes wide and sluggish and is characterized by many weirs, which makes the trip less interesting for most paddlers.

The Dordogne is ideal for paddling tours lasting several days. It is varied and does not get boring. The numerous villages on the banks of the Dordogne offer the opportunity to replenish your own provisions or to stop off in a restaurant. Due to the numerous campsites and the accommodations in the villages, you will find a suitable stay every evening. In the high season, however, you have to be prepared for the fact that many hotels and popular campsites are already fully booked.

Those who are not a big fan of longer paddle tours can also do a day trip. There are several possibilities, but the most popular section is the one between Vitrac and Beynac-et-Cazennac. However, this section is strongly frequented by many day tourists. Canoe rentals pick you up at the end of the paddle tour with a minibus and take you back where you started your tour.

Getting to the Dordogne in France

Toulouse and Bordeaux, where numerous flight connections exist, are the closest big cities. From these two cities you are within 3.5 hours by car in the Dordogne region. We recommend that you take a rental car, which can be rented at the airport or in the city centre. The journey with the public transport is possible, but unfortunately from the two cities mentioned above quite time-consuming and complicated. This is mainly due to the fact that the region is economically underdeveloped and dominated by agriculture. Train connections to the larger cities do exist, but there are only a few and no direct connections.

If you don’t want to travel by car, you could also start the canoe tour in Souillac. Souillac is the biggest city in the region and has a direct train connection to Paris. For the departure you should organize a transport to Souillac. If you hire a boat from a canoe rental company, they will usually return you to your starting point. If you are travelling with your own inflatable canoe , you can still contact a canoe rental company in order to ask them for a return transport. If they have space in their minibuses on their tours, they will usually take you with them for a fee.

Best time to visit the Dordogne

If you want to benefit from the Mediterranean climate, the months from June to September are the best. In midsummer from July to August there are many tourists on the river. Many beautiful gravel banks for wild camping or campsites near the river are quickly occupied. In the months of June and September, the advantage is that there are considerably fewer tourists in the region and the weather is still very stable. Temperatures above 68°F (20°C) are very common in September and offer actually the best paddling conditions. Only at night it can get colder in September. May and October could also be an option for weatherproof paddlers and campers, but most campsites have already closed.

We did our canoe trip on the Dordogne in September and can only recommend this period. The weather was very good. We had rain only once during the night and the temperatures were between 68°F and 79°F (20°C and 26°C) during the day. At night the temperatures sometimes went down to 45°F (7°C) and good camping equipment was therefore very important. But we really enjoyed the autumn colours and the silence on the river. Of course, you should also consider that the days in autumn become shorter.

Accommodation in the Dordogne

Even if you are out in nature for several days, camping is not a must. The possibilities range from wild camping on a gravel bank to an upscale hotel.

Wild Camping

Wild camping is not allowed in France, but one-time overnight stays on the riverbank is tolerated in the Dordogne. You should be careful not to pitch your tent on a private property or too close to a village. Free and flat areas on islands and gravel banks indicate suitable places. Do not camp too close to the water or just a bit above the water level of the river, as the water level can rise quickly, especially on the upper course of the river, due to the regulation at the weir in Argentat. In the high season, however, you should not rely on free spots for wild camping, as these are very popular and therefore quickly occupied.

Most paddlers on a multi-day trip stay overnight at one of the many campsites along the river. Since there are so many campsites, it is easy to find a campsite every night.  Most of them are right on the shore, where you can leave your canoe. But same here, in the high season the popular campsites are quickly full and you will not always have free place choice. In addition to hot shower, most campsites also have a small restaurant, a swimming pool and even a small grocery store.

Those who are not a big fan of camping but prefer to sleep in bed, can take a Bed&Breakfast or hotel in the many villages for a reasonable price. As these are often smaller accommodations with few rooms, an early reservation is recommended. You only have to check if you can leave your canoe on the property of the hotel or if you can let it safely on the shore. Most accommodations are in idyllic villages and in lovingly furnished country houses, which convey the charm and character of the region very well.

We were out in the low season and camped 5 nights on the river bank. This gave us complete flexibility in planning our tour, as we were able to stop at any time. Due to the few paddlers on the Dordogne in September, we had almost always free choice of place and the little islands or gravel banks for us alone. This was definitely a highlight of the Dordogne tour for us, because you could enjoy the wonderful views on the river in complete peace. Only on the last evening in Beynac-et-Cazenac we stayed overnight on a campsite, as wild camping close to villages is not really tolerated.

Canoe rentals at the Dordogne river

There are countless canoe rentals on the Dordogne. Some are more specialized in day trips and others in multi-day trips. For multi-day tours in high season you should book your canoe in advance. With most canoe rental companies, the car can be parked on their property. The return transport after the tour takes place in minibuses back to the canoe rental.

Explorando – Canoe rental

On this tour we didn’t take our own boats with us, but rented a canoe from the rental called Explorando . In addition to the numerous other rentals in the region, this one convinced us above all with a friendly and flexible service as well as the high-quality boats.

Usually you will also get dry bags and containers. Some rentals also have camping equipment. We have chosen the smaller company Explorando, which specializes in tours lasting several days. Thanks to the good equipment, the flexible and friendly service we can also recommend this canoe rental company.

Our canoe tour from Argentat to Beynac-et-Cazenac

We have devided this canoe tour in the following sections:

Day 1 – Argentant to Brivezac Day 2 – Brivezac to Reingues Day 3 – Reingues to Montvalent Day 4 – Montvalent to Le Treil Day 5 – Le Treil to Monfort Day 6 – Montfort to Beynac-et-Cazenac

Day 1 – Argentat to Brivezac

The evening before we arrived in Groléjac by car and spent the night in a small hotel. The next morning at 9:30 am we met at the base camp of the canoe rental company Explorando. We loaded our things and provisions for the next days into the minibus and went for an approximately two-hour trip in the minibus to Argentat. We also got a small river map from the canoe rental company, which was very helpful by the way. All important places and spots were marked, e.g. strong rapids and how to avoid them best, some campsites, restaurants and castles.

Starting point of our tour was then at the camping site “Camping Europe”, just before the rapid Malpas (the term “mal passage” means bad passage). Here we loaded our boat and put it into the water.

The rapid Malpas was quite challenging. An island divides the passage, whereby both sides are passable. The passage on the left side is easier, but also this can be quite bumpy and lively. Due to the lower water levels in September, the current was less fast than in summer. But when the water is low, it is not easy to find the way through because some rocks are blocking the course.

So we catch a rock quite badly and the boat swayed and runs full of water. We already have the capsizing before our eyes, but in the end we can just save ourselves with the full boat to the shore. Since the water level is very low at that time, capsizing at this level would not have been a dangerous undertaking. Paddle beginners should rather start their tour after this rapid. In summer, when the water levels are higher, there is even the volunteer fire brigade here to help capsized paddlers.

After the rapid Malpas we continue through parts with fast currents. Most of them can be passed without any problems and are more likely to make for rapid progress and are quite fun to drive through. A few places, however, require a little more attention, as rocks or stones sometimes block the course of the river and have to be avoided. Especially when the water level is low, ground contact with a fully loaded Canadian is not uncommon. Here you should always follow the main current, where most of the passages are best. After some time the course of the river becomes quite calm. However, the basic current is sufficient to drift and still make good progress.

Numerous anglers standing in the water and grey herons characterize this section. On this day we meet only two more paddle boats and can therefore enjoy the river hike in the best weather. Already during the first longer break at the river bank we realize how good the purchase of the folding camping chairs in Bordeaux was. There is nothing better than to put up your camping chair in the sunshine on a beautiful gravel bank. Once you’ve sat down, you sink into your chair at the sight of the beautiful nature and would like to linger for an eternity.

At Brivezac we meet a rather strong rapids again, where we decide to look at it beforehand in order to find the best way for the passage. If you hear a strong noise from a distance and you are not sure how to get there, it is always a good idea to dock in advance and take a look. Shortly after the passage, the first day of our tour comes to an end and we head for a beautiful shore where we finally pitch our tent.

Day 2 – Brivezac to Reingues

After the first night’s stay, we continue our journey towards Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, the first major village, where it is definitely worth stopping to explore and to have a coffee. But before we reach this place we discover such a beautiful shore where we simply have to take another break. It is located on the right bank as soon as you see the first house of the village from a distance. From here you also have a really good view of the river. The place is also perfect for swimming. Unfortunately, we didn’t reach this spot the night before. Because we would have pitched our tent here in any case. Anyway, we use the warm midday sun to cool down in the river and prepare our lunch.

At Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne you find a weir, which can’t be passed by canoes. But it can be bypassed on the left via a branch that can be reached by a water slide. Those who want to have a look at the village should first land on the right bank close to the church. Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is indeed not as spectacular as other idyllic villages that will still be waiting for us, but it already gives a nice first impression what the region has to offer. Moreover, there is a small supermarket where you can also refill your provisions or buy something that you might have forgotten before. Beside a walk, also small restaurants and cafés invite to a pleasant break.

After Beaulieu, the Dordogne flows mainly through pasture land and the next thing we notice is a big old wall on the right bank of the river. Behind this wall there is a castle called Château d’Estresse, which is not visible from the river. By chance we see that there is a big ladder on the river bank. The curiosity persuades us to dare a view over the wall in order to catch some glimpses of the castle. The idea with the ladder worked well, but unfortunately we didn’t see the castle from there either. Thus, we are not able to view the first castle on our canoe tour. But this should change soon.

Because not much later, what a canoe trip in the Dordogne is so famous and popular for follows: the first castle which is placed in the landscape like in a fairy tale book. The castle of Castelnau-Bretenoux is a few miles from the river.  If you have a little more time, you can land on the riverbank and walk there to visit it. We decide not to visit the castle. But as it is enthroned on a hill, it can be seen quite well from the water for some time and we enjoy the views.

Then follows a larger island, which offers numerous gravel banks with good resting places. After this island we land on the left bank near the small village of Reingues and set up our camp. Since the river makes a bend at this point, we had a really good view of the river course in the evening.

Day 3 – From Reingues to Montvalent

The next morning we continue along small villages with the destination Carennac. This village was awarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. If you want to visit this medieval village, you should keep to the left before the village and follow the tributary of the river, because this is the only way to get directly to Carennac. We find the trip through the canal particularly varied. This small section, which is very narrow and covered with many trees, strongly reminds us of our paddle tour in the Spreewald in Germany.

After about 1 mile on the side arm we reach the city centre. Here we enjoy the walk through the village in wonderful sunshine and summery temperatures. Carennac is indeed a picturesque village with a lot of charm. A detached tower in the centre of the village is a popular photo motif. Today it does not fulfil a great function anymore, since it’s used to be a stair tower of a former building. We then stop for lunch at the Priearé Restaurant. Here we had a very good meal and can highly recommend it.

By the way, those who want to exchange the camping in wild nature with a soft bed in a romantic village for one night are right in this village. Looking back we have to say that Carennac was one of the highlights of the Dordogne tour for us. So, it’s definitely worth spending some more time at  this beautiful place.

To get back from the side arm to the Dordogne you have to use a water slide. But the water level is so low that we have to pull the boat down. On the main river there are a few rapids shortly afterwards where you have to be careful to get through safely. Since the sun is so nice and warm that day and we still feel full of midday, we soon find a spot on the bank to put up our hammocks. With so little hustle and bustle on the river and such good weather, the camping chair and the hammock become one of our best friends on this trip to simply relax and unwind.

As we continue our journey we notice how slowly huge rock faces are piling up, which will determine the river landscape for the next few miles. The view point “Belvédère de Copeyre” offers the possibility to gaze at the Dordogne valley from above. So, we land on the gravel banks below the view point. Unfortunately, there is no footpath up to the view point but only the path on the road. But here, you have to pay attention very well, as the road is quite busy. The curves and the gradient of the road make it difficult for car drivers to see it in some places. We would not recommend this side trip to families with children. But once arrived at the view point, you have a really excellent view that takes one’s breath away.

With just as much astonishment we finally paddle on, because the exciting rock formations create a very special scenery in the evening light play. At the curve of Le Port de Gluges we have another break, as the view of the rock walls is very impressive. Then we continue paddling and at dusk we find our perfect camping spot at a curve close to the village Montvalent. With the last rays of the sun and the lonely silence, the autumn colors of the trees on the shore seem really magical. The gravel bank is very long and numerous fireplaces show that many canoeists regularly stay overnight here. We have the whole gravel bank to ourselves that evening, sitting with campfire on the riverbank until late.

Day 4 – From Montvalent to Le Treil

When we open the tent the next morning, we quickly notice that the warm autumn atmosphere of the previous evening has changed into a morning autumn cold. The temperature is still far below 50°F. We decide to quickly take down our tent and stow our equipment in the boat. Off we go with strong paddle strokes to warm up and soon we catch the first sunrays.

At the latest when it gets warmer the hunger and the appetite for a really good breakfast seizes us. A look at the map tells us that the village Saint-Soizy is not far away and there is supposed to be a shop with fresh French baguettes. We decide to land on below the motorway bridge and then buy our well-deserved breakfast in the nearby town centre.

Back at the boat, we paddle a few hundred metres further on, then leave the motorway bridge behind us and have breakfast on the bank. The small breakfast break turns into a quite extended break with cooling in the river at meanwhile summerly temperatures.

Then we continue to the village of Lacave, where we want to take a break to visit the stalactite cave there. Either our map on the mobile phone and our river maps show us the wrong way or we clearly got the wrong way. At the end, we meet two donkeys on a meadow that want to tell us that surely there is no stalactite cave to be found there. So we leave the shore again without having found the cave, knowing that soon another one is waiting for us.

Because if we continue paddling from Lacave, we only have to keep left at the rock face and keep our eyes open for a cave. Shortly before a house lying on the slope the entrance to a cave finally appears in the rock wall. If the water level is sufficient, you can even go in by canoe for a few meters. At our place the water level is too low and we have to get out to continue on foot. At the end there is a water basin where you would only get further with diving equipment. Nevertheless the cave is worth seeing and gives a little adventure feeling.

After we finally got our little cave experience, we continue paddling and as next, the Château de la Treyne tempts us to take a break again. It is located on a rock and really nestles into the landscape. We grab our camping chairs and take a refreshment break. By the way, there is not much to visit at the Château de la Treyne, as it is nowadays a luxury hotel.

Finally, the Dordogne gets a little further and the shore regions flatten. We already see the next castle from a distance, the Château de Lanzac, which is also privately owned. With the grazing cows in front of the lonely castle and the absence of any modernity, we almost feel like being taken back a few centuries ago.

Soon the only real town on the Dordogne follows: Souillac. The town with its 4000 inhabitants does not have the same charm as the many other medieval villages we have seen before. Souillac is rather a traffic junction and the modern life dominates the townscape. But the city is ideal for refilling your provisions or going out for a meal. As we still have plenty of provisions, we do not stop at Souillac and continue paddling.

At Cieurac we see a castle again, which is also privately owned and has no official name. Nevertheless, we land on and walk on the hill of the castle, which is located in the middle of the village of Cieurac. The castle is also easy to visit from the outside and its architecture and location is really impressive. The silence in the village and around the castle almost creates a mystical atmosphere, which is perfect for a cloudy evening walk.

As the day is coming to an end, we are looking for a suitable place to pitch our tent. For the first time we pass a place that we like so much that we would have loved to pitch our tent there. But two other canoeists were faster and have already taken the place. Therefore we decide to paddle a few more miles for the next day ahead and finally we find what we are looking for on the island after the camping site “Camping La Borgne” in Le Treil. In the night it rained a lot, but this was also the only time during the whole tour.

Day 5 – From Le Treil to Monfort

The next morning is quite cloudy at first and we can see everyhwere the wetness from the rain of the night. We set off towards Groléjac and paddle through almost without any break. We like the cliffs in front of Groléjac, which are really stunning.

After we have refilled our provisions in the afternoon, we continue and soon, the Château de Montfort follows. The bend where the castle becomes visible is also very beautiful from the nature and we decide to have another break. Here, you can’t just paddle by but you have to stop. Finally, the break turns into an overnight stay at the same place, as we are sure that we can’t find a nicer place for camping. A small sand beach, a direct view on the castle and a protected area for the tent. It could not be better. Instead of pitching our tent, we finally put up our hammocks. Sleeping at least once in out hammock was one of our goals for the canoe trip.

So we sit this evening again very long in the camping chairs and enjoy the beautiful view and look forward to the atmosphere the next morning when we go to bed.

Day 6 – From Montfort to Beynac

The night in the hammock was already quite fresh as the temperature dropped below 50°F. Without a good sleeping bag and a hammock in which you can insert a sleeping pad, this would probably not have been possible. Despite the cold we feel like in a paradise. The veil of mist that lies over the river, the sun that slowly rises and the castle on the rock that is touched by the first warm sunrays create a very special atmosphere. We got up early for our last paddling day, because we know that the last day of our tour will be waiting for us again with some highlights.

By passing Château de Montfort it is worthwhile to look back once again, as from the back, you can see some other parts of the castle and it looks much more imposing but also a little more built up and playful. Soon, we cross the bridge of Vitrac and from now on we notice that the real Dordogne-tourism begins. Big canoe rentals with their countless boats are waiting on the banks for the day tourists. We paddled the popular section between Vitrac and Beynac-et-Cazennac below weekdays in the low season and still there were a lot more people on the river than on the previous section. On summer weekends this section is without doubt very busy.

Not far from Vitrac, the village of Domme soon appears on the horizon on a rocky outcrop. A detour in this village is worthwhile in any case, because you find there many nice little shops, cafés and restaurants. We decide to have our lunch break in this village. As the village is located on a rocky outcrop, the view to the valley of the Dordogne is really impressive. But for this side trip you should already plan some hours, as from the shore, you have to walk up to the old town and this way is not really short.

After the lunch break we continue in the direction of La Roque-Gageac. Also this village is really picturesque and those who did not make a side trip to Domme or wanted to spare themselves the hike up the mountain should stop at La Roque-Gageac. We land with our boat at the opposite side of the shore of the village and enjoy the view at the French village that appears to us as from a fairy-tale book. Between La Roque-Gageac and Château de Castelnaud there are excursion boats, but they are not very disturbing when canoeing, as the river is quite wide.

The Château de Castelnaut is a highlight of every Dordogne tour and is considered the most visited castle in the south of France.  It not only has an interesting history to tell, but also houses a museum of medieval war machines. We visited it and were very fascinated by both the castle and the exhibition.

This castle was considered difficult to conquer due to its location and was looted and set on fire during the French Revolution. It was later used as a quarry to build bank fortifications on the Dordogne river. It was only in 1967 that it was elaborately rebuilt and since 2002 the castle has been shining in new splendour.

From the castle of Castelnaud it is really not far to Beynach-et-Cazenac. If you visit Castelnaud, you can already see the castle of Beynac from a distance. And not only this one, but also other castles that give this part of the Dordogne the nickname “castle section”.

In Beynach-et-Cazenac our canoe tour finally ends after 6 days.  On the last day we spend the night at the campsite “Camping le Capeyrou”. In summer it is said to be fully booked very quickly, but before and after the holiday season you can easily get a place spontaneously on the same evening. Unfortunately there is no direct access to the river from the campsite and so we have to leave our boat on the shore for the night.

Since we arrived not too late and out tent is already pitched up, we take the opportunity to explore the village and walk up to the castle Beynac. For us the walk was a perfect end of the day. During the week in the low season there are very few people in the village in the evening and you can enjoy the medieval village as well as the beautiful views. But of course, during this time many restaurants are already closed. But we still find some places to stop at the river bank in order to finish the tour with a great dinner.

For the next morning we arranged our pick up with the canoe rental Explorando to get back to Groléjac where we had parked the rental car. Thus ends our Dordogne tour and we look back on eventful and relaxing days in a beautiful region between picturesque castles and villages and lots of nature.

These canoe tours in France might interest you too!

Did that report make you want to go on a canoe trip? Then inspire yourself by other tour reports from France. By the way, in our tours section you will find all the tour reports published so far as well as researched articles on selected paddling regions.

Kayaking in the Calanques National Park

The French national park Les Calanques is considered a hiker’s paradise in France, combining mountains and dream beaches. For paddle fans this national park is a spectacular place for sea kayaking.

Tour report of the kayak tour in the Calanques

Kayaking to the Pont du Gard

The Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct in the south of France and one of the most important sights in this region. A canoe trip to this historical monument is a very special experience.

Tour report of the canoe tour to the Pont du Gard

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Hi, I'm Christian and love to discover the nature from the water at any time and in an easy way. For this there is nothing better than portable boats, which are now indispensable for me!

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Dordogne Travel Guide

Plan your dordogne canoe adventure.

• April 2, 2024

Have you ever dreamed of gliding through serene waters, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and rich historical architecture? If so, then renting a canoe and exploring the Dordogne River might just be the adventure you’ve been searching for. Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, the Dordogne offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both nature and history, all at your own pace.

Discovering the Dordogne from the water

The Dordogne River winds its way through the picturesque landscapes of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, carving through limestone cliffs and verdant valleys along its course. Renowned for its stunning scenery and historic sites, the Dordogne is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Renting a kayak or a canoe allows you to experience the Dordogne in a way that few other modes of transportation can match. With its gentle current and calm waters, the river offers a tranquil setting for exploration, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings without the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Canoe trip with castles in the Dordogne: unraveling history along the riverbanks

As you paddle downstream, you’ll be treated to a feast for the senses, with each bend in the river revealing new wonders to behold. From ancient castles perched high atop rugged cliffs to charming villages nestled along the water’s edge, the Dordogne is a treasure trove of historical and architectural marvels.

One such highlight along the route is the fairytale-like village of La Roque-Gageac , with its quaint houses clinging to the cliffs overlooking the river below. As you paddle beneath its towering rock formations, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into a painting, surrounded by the timeless beauty of nature and architecture in perfect harmony.

Further downstream lies the medieval village of Beynac-et-Cazenac, whose imposing fortress dominates the skyline and offers a glimpse into France’s storied past. As you glide past its weathered stone walls, you can’t help but feel transported back in time, imagining the knights and nobles who once roamed its halls.

Embracing the Serenity of Nature

One of the greatest joys of kayaking on the Dordogne is the opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form. From the lush greenery that lines the riverbanks to the tranquil sounds of flowing water and birdsong, the Dordogne offers a welcome respite from the noise and chaos of everyday life.

Along the way, keep an eye out for the region’s abundant wildlife, including graceful herons, playful otters, and majestic birds of prey. With each stroke of the paddle, you’ll feel a sense of peace and serenity wash over you, as you become one with the rhythm of the river.

Practical tips for your canoe trip along the Dordogne

• Check the weather forecast

Before embarking on your canoe adventure, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. First and foremost, be sure to check the weather forecast and river conditions before setting out, as water levels can vary depending on recent rainfall.

• Dress to the occasion

It’s also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, wearing lightweight, quick-drying clothing and sturdy footwear that can handle wet conditions (and are stone proof, as walking on the rounded flints can be painful !). Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day, as well as sunscreen and a hat to protect against the sun’s rays.

• Choose a reliable canoe rental company

When renting a kayak or a canoe, be sure to choose a reputable outfitter that provides well-maintained equipment and safety gear, including life jackets and a waterproof container to keep your phone and other personal belongings dry in case the boat tips over. Good rental companies take the time to familiarize you with the basics of kayaking before they let you hit the water.

• Embrace the picnic lifestyle !

Stock up on fresh produce and regional delicacies from local markets. Fresh baguettes, local cheeses, cured meats, and your favorite french wine make a delightful riverside feast, enjoy the ride !

Which part of the Dordogne river for a canoe trip ?

When it comes to kayaking along the Dordogne, you’ll find a variety of routes that cater to different skill levels and interests. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely paddle through picturesque countryside or an adrenaline-pumping whitewater adventure, the Dordogne has something for everyone.

• Beynac-et-Cazenac to La Roque-Gageac : This scenic route takes you past two of the Dordogne’s most iconic landmarks, offering stunning views of limestone cliffs, lush greenery, and historic architecture.
• Castelnaud-la-Chapelle to Limeuil : Explore picturesque landscapes, including rugged cliffs, tranquil meadows, and dense forests, with highlights including the Château de Castelnaud and the village of Limeuil.
• Argentat to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne : For experienced paddlers, this route offers thrilling whitewater experiences amidst picturesque villages and ancient forests.

Our picks : Canoe rentals Dordogne France

Canoë Dordogne Safaraid

Location:  Several locations along the Dordogne, including Limeuil and Le Bugue.

Traject Options:  They offer various routes ranging from 9 km to 36 km, catering to all experience levels and paddling preferences.

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Canoës Loisirs

Location:  Vitrac bridge (Domme)

Traject Options:  They offer various routes ranging in between Calviac and Beynac. More adventurous ? Choose one of their 3-5 day canoe trip !

Canoë Soleil Plage

Location:  Plage de Caudon, Vitrac (near Sarlat-la-Canéda)

Traject Options:  Choose from three itineraries, 8 km between Vitrac and La Roque-Gageac, The Castleton Tour (12 km) or The Dordogne Loop (18 km).

Ready to embark on your own kayaking adventure along the Dordogne? Don’t wait any longer! Book your kayak rental today and experience the magic of this historic river for yourself. Whether you’re seeking a solo expedition or a memorable outing with friends and family, the Dordogne has something for everyone. Start planning your journey now and prepare to make memories that will last a lifetime.

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Kayaking and Canoeing on the Dordogne river

The Dordogne river is one of the most popular destinations in France. The low flow in most parts of the river makes it ideal for a kayak or canoe trip as you can easily descend and visit many beautiful villages and impressive chateaux on the way. The enchanting scenery on the banks of the river includes picturesque villages like Beynac, La Roque Gageac and Domme as well as local flora and fauna near Bergerac. In this article I gathered the best places from which to start your kayaking and canoeing experience on the Dordogne river. There are of course many other good kayaking clubs on this immense river but I chose a few that are nicely spread around and offer good tours at reasonable prices. Enjoy and leave a comment if you have any other kayak and canoe clubs to add.

Visit the most beautiful villages in the Dordogne on a canoe

There’s a beautiful scenery along most parts of the Dordogne river, but there’s one region that will leave you truly speechless. The Perigord noir region is located in the south east of the Dordogne department and has one segment of the river that passes right through it. The area is known for its marvellous villages, labeled among the most beautiful in France, with several of them located on the river banks. If you have only one day to discover the villages and castles of Dordogne, canoeing in Perigord Noir is your best choice.

River canoe kayak

River canoe kayak is located at Saint Vincent de Cosse, just next to Beynac, which many consider as the most beautiful village in France. The company’s minibus will take you to your preferred starting point on the Dordogne, from which you’ll start discovering the amazing villages and chateaux on both sides of the river. They offer three different tours: a half day tour, a 4-5 hours tour and full day tours. The bus will bring you to different starting points according to the tour you choose. Departure times are 9h15 – 10h15 – 11h15 – 12h15 – 14h15 – 15h15 – 16h15. Open from April to September

During the summer it’s recommended to make reservations by email [email protected] or by phone : 05.53.29.41.01 or 06.87.13.58.41 For prices check out their website . Address: Le Bourg, 24220 Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse

Canoe Dordogne

If you’re visiting the beautiful village of La Roque Gageac, you should definitely consider experiencing it from the river side. Canoe Dordogne proposes a one hour trip near La Roque-Gageac, which was chosen as one of the most beautiful villages in France. You can also take longer tours, from 9 to 25 km and the company bus will take you to the appropriate starting point depending on the trip you choose to take. If you come with kids, they offer different canoes for 2 to 4 people, meaning that it could fit the whole family. Unlike many kayak operators who are open only during the summer season, this one is open all year long.  Details for contact and reservation: [email protected] or by phone at : 05 53 29 58 50. For prices check out their website . Address: Le Bourg, 24250 La Roque-Gageac

Canoe sans Frontiere

Canoe sans frontiere offers you a special trail they call the ‘Circuit des Châteaux’. It’s a 19km route (about 4 hours on a canoe) in which you discover five beautiful castles located on the Dordogne river. You start your journey in front of Château de Grolejac, followed by Château de Montfort, Castelnaud-La-Chapelle, Château de Fayrac and finally the famous Château de Beynac. If 19 km is a bit too much for you, this club also offers shorter trips with plenty of beautiful scenery on the way. Open from April to the end of October.

Reservations by phone at 06 31 70 40 08. For more details and prices check out the website   Address: Pont de, Grolejac, 24200 Carsac-Aillac

Canoe Soleil Plage

If you want to combine canoeing on the Dordogne river with a beach day, this is the place to go. Canoe Sun Plage is located on the Caudon beach, about 6 km from Sarlat and Domme (two of France’s most beautiful villages). There are three itineraries to choose from, one covers the castles of Dordogne, the second emphasises nature and the third combines both. On the long tour you’ll get to see the châteaux of Castelnaud and Montfort and the beautiful villages of Domme and La Roque Gageac. They operate from April to October.

Contact details: [email protected] or Phone : +33 (0)5 53 28 77 61 and +33 (0) 6 58 08 99 34 For more details check out their website . Address: Plage de Caudon, 24200 Vitrac

Canoeing in the Dordogne around Bergerac

Another great location for water activities on the Dordogne river is the Pays de Bergerac, the western part of the Dordogne department. It’s a region full of beautiful bastide towns and vineyards. A canoe or a kayak can be a great way to discover the particular nature and architecture of this area. 

Aquafun Canoes Dordogne

Aquafun Canoes Dordogne is located next to the  beautiful village of Limeuil situated on the confluence of the Dordogne and the Vezere rivers. They offer several trips on both rivers that can start at different locations, depending on how long you want to paddle. On the Dordogne river, you can make short tours (starting from 5km) from places like le buisson or whole day routes from La roque gageac (32km). You have plenty of options in between which makes this place very flexible and adaptable for families. You can also discover the Vezere river from locations like Le Bugue and La Roque St. Christophe (another amazing place to visit in Dordogne). You start the tours at the port of Limeuil, from which you are bussed to your location of choice, with all the trips ending back at the same port in Limeuil.  

Contact details: [email protected] or phone : 06 77 18 66 46 Open from May 1st to September 20th. For more details and prices check out their  website . Address: Port de, 24510 Limeuil

Canoë Kayak Port Ste Foy

This small water sports club is located next to Sainte Foy la Grande, yet another charming town along the Dordogne river. The town is located right in between Bordeaux and Bergerac, making it a great option if you’re staying in Bordeaux (less than an hour drive). Every Saturday Sainte Foy la Grande hosts one of the biggest markets in the region, so this is the best day to visit. The club has a very friendly staff and offers Canoës, Kayaks and Stand Up Paddles. 

Contact details: [email protected] or Phone : 05 53 24 86 12

Open the whole year, prior reservations are required (apart from July – August when you can come anytime).  For more details go to their facebook page or their website (currently under construction).  Address: Base nautique du Cléret, Allée Paul Ducou 33220 PORT-SAINTE-FOY

Pessac sur Dordogne 

Another Canoeing club between Bordeaux and Bergerac is located on the riverfront of Pessac sur Dordogne. The town is not very interesting on its own but the club has a nice restaurant with an amazing view on the river. They offer two tours, one from Riberon (8km) and one from Eynesse (15km). The 8km tour is a good distance to do with kids, but it’s important to know that it doesn’t have a stop spot for a picnic. So if you want a more relaxed trail with a break, take the longer tour. Both trails start at Pessac sur Dordogne from which you are bussed to the chosen starting point.

Reservations by phone  06 63 82 34 53 / Open from mid June to mid September. For more details and prices check out their website   Address: Les Quais, 33890 Pessac-sur-Dordogne

If you want more ideas for amazing day trips from Bordeaux you should check out my article about day trips which includes plenty of beautiful villages, history and nature. If wine is your things, check out my article about the best wineries to visit in Saint Emilion and about the Bordeaux wine route in Medoc . Enjoy your stay!

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Sarlat la Canéda: The Dordogne valley by canoe

• - Vests - Containers (box) - Paddle - Canoe - Insurance - Topo Guide
• Option 1 Canoës Loisirs - Canoë Dordogne, Le Brat, 24250 Domme, France Main meeting point for all departures!
• Option 2 Place Pasteur, Pl. Pasteur, 24200 Sarlat-la-Canéda, France Starting point possible for people who do not have vehicles in the off season! Appointment time to be determined with our services via a phone call!
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Service animals allowed
• Transportation is wheelchair accessible
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Most travelers can participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Similar experiences

• Mobile37499859261 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A must do !! Just superb!! An amazing experience seeing such beautiful French countryside from the Dordogne. The staff were spot on…. Thanks Dave… so pleased we turned right after going over the bridge… he’ll know what I mean. Read more Written September 19, 2023
• Chris S 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful gentle trip down the Dordogne We booked our canoe/kayak trip online through Canoes Butterfly, which is basically the Beynac base of Canoes Loisir. As we had chosen to do the Cénac - Beynac 12km 2h30 trip this seemed like the best option for us as we drove to Beynac (actually in Castelnaud-la-Chapelle) base and parked there, which meant that at the end of the trip we could just drive away whenever we arrived. If we had booked a trip at their main base at Vitrac instead we would have needed to wait for an hourly bus back to the start. We booked the first trip at 10am, which meant getting there at 9:30 and getting equipped with a life jacket and waterproof barrel. A minibus took us a 15 minute or so drive to Cénac where we got our kayak/canoe and some basic instructions before launching into the river. This stretch of the river is wide, with a gentle current and no really fast parts. You pass through pretty countryside, wooded valleys, and pass by La Roque Gageac, Castelnaud and Beynac castles and can stop anywhere you like on the way. Our only limitation was to be back at the base before 5pm so if we'd wanted to stop for a picnic we could have done. They offer plenty of other trips - some longer and even a shorter option - but this suited us well. All-in-all a lovely day out. Tip: Don't forget sun cream on your legs (and feet if you're wearing sandals). Read more Written July 17, 2023
• L421HOsharonb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Canoe Loisirs - highly recommended Canoe Loisirs were very helpful when my wife and I visited the Dordogne for a few days of canoeing during early June 2023 . We brought our own canoe so there was no need for us to hire. Canoe Loisirs were still able to accommodate us with regards transport to/from either the starting or finishing point of our days canoe trip (for a small fee). The staff were excellent and the company is highly recommended. Read more Written June 8, 2023
• 29grantc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great experience We just finished a fantastic 3 days canoeing and exploring on the Dordogne and Vezere rivers. We booked a complete package including hotel with Canoes Loisirs. There was heavy rain for two days prior to our trip that required several route changes and hotel changes. Baptiste, our contact at Canoes Loisirs was very thoughtful and provided us great alternatives. We felt very well taken care of. An excellent trip! Read more Written May 18, 2023
• raydr98 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles very unprofession business dealings First, Gilles and Baptiste seemed to be working with us to design a custom trip. But this was done through about 20 emails. We really appreciated it. The trip looked beautiful. They quoted a price, but then said we would have to WIRE them money, because they did not take credit cards. This felt suspicious for a business to not accept credit cards. THEN, Gilles wrote and said they could take the card after all and we could pay the fees in 3 payments. But, we wanted to be clear of the plan, so I consolidated all 20 emails into one iteniary using the details they had given me. I sent them (Gilles) the iteniary as I understood it, including what we would be responsibile for and what the company would be responsible for (asking if it was correct). I also sent them our Amex information. They ghosted me. Finally after two weeks, I wrote them again asking if everything was ok. Gilles wrote back to cancel our trip. I asked for a reason..... .They took offense to our asking for agreement on the iteniary (specicially he said the we "didn't trust them" and therefore they were "closing our folder". I recently wrote with Baptiste and asked him to confirm if this is what happened...I wanted it to be fair and true. He ignored me. I am sure they have to agree, because I have the emails to back this up. I am so glad we didn't wire the money. But,we had been working toward a trip like this for many years. It broke our hearts. Read more Written September 9, 2022
• SESims2017 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best canoeing in the Dordogne We went as a family of 11 with ages ranging from 5 years to 63 years. We did the 16k route from vitrac to beynac. We really enjoyed and had a good laugh. You could stop off along the way for lunch, snack breaks and swim. We really enjoyed and will probably book again next week! We booked on the website which was straightforward (we do speak and understand french as we are bilingual). However, the staff spoke really good English at the canoe site and were very organised (if you wish to show up and book there you can do easily). We really enjoyed and would totally recommend this to everyone. We travelled from Correze to go to this specific canoe company as we heard it was good. It didn't disappoint. Thank you Canoes Loisirs! Read more Written August 19, 2022
• srmvdb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles This is a must do activity (Vitrac - Beynac) and these guys are a good outfit Good service. Good equipment. Reasonable price. Starting point has a decent restaurant with it. The 3 hour Vitrac - Beynac trip is recommended. Take the double paddles! Read more Written August 12, 2022
• T8208ZDsarahc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Relaxing canoe ride in beautiful surroundings We booked on line, and everything went like clockwork - we checked in, were given our equipment and off we went - that took about 10 minutes. It was extremely well organised - the staff spoke English which helped. We went from Vitrac to Beynac on the 5 castle route, and with a stop for lunch at Le Ti Malo in Beynac, it took about 3.5 hours. The bus ride back to Vitrac was on time, and efficient. Great day out. Read more Written July 29, 2022
• robus1 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great choice for canoeing the Dordogne We booked online directly through their website and everything went smoothly and efficiently when we showed up. Clean restrooms were available at the launch site. We chose a 12 km trip (2.5 hrs- one of their shorter options) because we have a 6 year old and we didn’t know how long she’d last. We ended up taking a lot more time and going at a leisurely pace stopping for a snack along the way. My youngest announced at the end that she wasn’t bored at all even though we’d been doing this for hours! There are plenty of canoe rental places and we chose this one because we’re staying just a few minutes from Vitrac so it was convenient. However, they did everything right and there’d be no reason for me to choose a different company when we’re back in the region. Read more Written July 2, 2022
• Adam M 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Wonderful afternoon on the river I had been to the Dordogne region several times before and had seen people canoeing on the river but had never done it, so I booked the Vitrac-Beynac trip for my wife and I this time around. It turned out to be an excellent way to spend the afternoon. Dealing with the staff at Canoe Loisirs was very easy and after a 5 minute orientation and equipment fitting, we were on our way. The Dordogne is an extremely easy river to navigate, and even with high water and the river running faster than usual from spring rains we had no trouble whatsoever, even though my wife is a novice paddler. Luckily we had excellent weather but take sunscreen because the reflection off the water can cause a wicked sunburn if you're not prepared. the trip itself is great - you get a great view of La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud, Fayrac, Beynac, and other beautiful sights along the river. It's easy to take pictures and you can go at your own pace and take your time. Overall it was a super fun experience that we would definitely do again. Read more Written May 4, 2022
• Helen L 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles An amazing day! This is the perfect way to view the villages along the river. Even though you will be told you can do the journey from Vitrac in 3 hours allow at least 4 (we took 5!) then you can really enjoy the scenery and allow the river to take you along. Take your picnic and stop on one of the many 'beaches'. We saw so many kingfishers too. Choose a warm day and don't forget your sunscreen. A really special day! Read more Written October 13, 2019
• Megger84 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Must-Do Experience Canoeing down the Dordogne river is an incredible way to see the villages tucked along the valley's cliffs. We did the route from Vitrac to Beynac, which is listed on the website as a three hour trip. However, it is possible to schedule a later pick up at the end of the route, allowing you to make your day as long as you'd like. I reccomend scheduling in at least an extra hour to have time to stop for lunch in a village or one of the riverside picnic areas. Staff were efficient and gave clear directions to the bus pickup point. Read more Written September 28, 2019
• Martin B 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Grey nomads go canoeing Superb canoeing down the Dordogne. They say 3 hours but allow 4 + to allow for a couple of stops and a quick lunch. Bus waiting when we finished to take us back to Vitric. A great way to spend a day. Read more Written September 28, 2019
• Y4055WLelaine 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Brilliant way to see the sights. Easy paddling with beautiful views along the river. Lots of river bank to stop and swim or gave picnic lunch. Read more Written September 13, 2019
• AdrianS2403 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A lovely way to travel We hired two canoes to travel down the river, we wished we had chosen the slightly longer one! We had great fun (two middel aged , two early 20's) . Really very easy to paddle and relax, pleanty of watering holes along the way too! Read more Written September 13, 2019

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Sarlat la Canéda: The Dordogne valley by canoe provided by Canoes Loisirs

All the year

Canoë rental, on dordogne river.

Departure by bus and return to the base in Canoë We are located 13 km from Sarlat, 7 km from Saint Cyprien, 4km from Beynac. and 2 hours from BORDEAUX - 50 minutes from BERGERAC - PERIGUEUX - BRIVE

Discover our partner

on the Vézère River

To book a canoe trip on the Dordogne River

Welcome 7/7 from 9am to 7pm

Confort canoe with backrests, free canteen waterproof, for the whole family from 5 years old.

On site, you will find a restaurant - bar - brasserie, guest rooms, a refreshment bar, games for your children, a large picnic area, a beach (unsupervised swimming) of about a hundred metres (clean and maintained), part of which is shaded and grassed.

Our itineraries Canoe Detente rental Dordogne

Canoë Détente offers you 3 different canoe rental routes on the Dordogne River. We start with the "circuit des 3 Châteaux" which starts in Vézac, the "circuit des 6 Châteaux" which starts above La Roque Gageac and finally the "circuit des 7 Châteaux" which starts in Carsac. We will meet you 30 minutes before your departure time at the "Canoë Détente" base at Port d'Enveaux in Saint Vincent de Cosse. A bus will take you to your departure point.

Call : +33(0)5 53 29 52 15

To book your canoe rental, our tariffs canoe detente dordogne.

All departures are by minibus from the "Canoë Détente" base at the Port d'Enveaux. Transport included in the rates. Return by Canoe to the "Canoë Détente" base where you will find your cars. Take your time, return before 7pm.

*Departure from 12:30 only out of season

Departure by bus canoe trip back

Free parking shaded, free campervan area, restaurant bar – brasserie, gallery canoe detente dordogne.

Canoë Détente Saint Vincent de Cosse 24220 Port d'Enveaux

Gps 44.8268352 1.0984548.

+33(0)5 53 29 52 15

Luxe Adventure Traveler

Adventure Travel With a Glass of Wine

Canoeing the Dordogne

By Jennifer Dombrowski 10 Comments

The Dordogne River flows west through the South West of France, snaking through the soaring cliffs dotted by ancient châteaux and some of the most beautiful villages in France in the Périgord Noir. One of the best ways to experience this stunning part of France is by grabbing some paddles and canoeing the Dordogne.

A Dordogne canoe trip can last from just a few hours to several days while also camping along the Dordogne’s shores. A Dordogne canoe trip can even combine adventure and luxury with a stay in a château converted to a luxury hotel along the way. But no matter whether you canoe the Dordogne on a day trip or on a multi-day Dordogne holiday, this French adventure needs to be on your bucket list.

How to Spend a Day Canoeing the Dordogne from Vitrac to Beynac

For a day out on the Dordogne, the 16 kilometer route from Vitrac to Beynac is one of the most beautiful parts of the Dordogne River. The route encompasses five clifftop castles and three of the most beautiful villages in France on a calm part of the river perfect for any canoeing experience level.

It takes around 3 hours to canoe from Vitrac to Beynac, and there is a shuttle back to the launch point in Vitrac every hour with Canoës Loisirs . There are also points that you can you paddle ashore and visit some of the villages and their attractions along the way.

The route begins in Vitrac, considered to be the heart of the Périgord Noir. The beautiful village, a canton of Sarlat, has a population of just 872. But Vitrac once played an essential role in Bordeaux’s wine trade with England, first as a major producer of wine barrels and then as a builder of the Gabares (a special type of rive barge). The Gabares carried planks of wood for the barrels on the river to the Gironde.

There’s also a small island near Vitrac, which is a natural bird sanctuary. The Dordogne River is, after all, a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. You can not only admire the beautiful scenery of the honey-colored villages you’ll gently drift past, but also the possibility to spot birds like kites, buzzards and falcons.

La Roque-Gageac

The village of La Roque-Gageac is listed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France , the most beautiful villages of France. The village sits on the Dordogne River and the honey-colored houses are built right in to the massive cliff that overhangs the village.

The village has been occupied since prehistoric times, making it one of the interesting villages to visit. On a walk through the village, follow the steps up to the troglodyte fort that dates back to the Viking invasions. On Friday morning from May – September there is also a food market and there are good restaurants in the village.

The Château de La Malartrie sits on the edge of the village. The castle dates back to the 12th century when it was originally a leper hospital. It sat abandoned for many years until it was purchased by the Count de Saint Aulaire. The Count transformed the castle in the Renaissance style it stands in today. It’s actually a lovely castle hotel you can stay in with a fabulous outdoor swimming pool.

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle

A little further down the river, you come to Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. This is another of the most beautiful villages of France, which sits on the confluence of the Dordogne and Céou rivers. The village is known for its two castles.

Château Castelnaud was built in the 12th century as a show of power to face its rival castle Château de Beynac. This castle too was once abandoned and nothing more than ruins by the time of the French Revolution. The medieval fortress is beautifully restored and today is a museum of medieval warfare. You can even try your hand at archery, a discipline that was well mastered by the soldiers during the Hundred Years War, or firing a trebuchet during various times throughout the year.

The second castle of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is Château des Milandes . It was built in 1489 by François de Caumont, the Lord of Castelnaud, as a gift to his wife. Josephine Baker purchased it in 1947 after falling in love it while renting it. And today it is a beautiful manor hour with stunning gardens, a birds of prey show and an on-site restaurant.

Ecomusée de la Noix

Foodies won’t want to miss a visit the family-run Ecomusée de la Noix (The Walnut Ecomuseum) in Castelnaud, as the Périgord is the birthplace of the walnut. Walnuts are inextricably linked with the history of the Dordogne. The people here have been eating walnuts since the prehistoric times of the Cro-Magnon some 17,000 years ago.

Walnut oil, the main product produced from Périgord walnuts, was once so valuable that it was worth its weight in gold. Walnuts and walnut oil played a role in contributing to the wealth of the region. Walnuts were even used as a form of currency for peasants to pay off debts and walnut oil was accepted as a form of payment for taxes due to the local churches.

The Ecomusée de la Noix is a walnut plantation that has grown walnuts on the 7 hectares of land atop the hill of Castelnaud since the 18th century. At the museum/plantation, which has been open to the public since 1996, visitors can discover all the various food products walnuts are produced in to including walnut oil, walnut liquor, walnut beer, walnut butter and candied walnuts.

The mills in the old farmhouse turn all year round, giving visitors a look at hold the high-quality cold pressed virgin walnut oil is produced. First, dry walnuts are slowly crushed under the ever-turning grinding wheel into a kind of dough.

The dough is then heated for 30 minutes in a large cast iron bowl that is manually stirred constantly by one of the workers.

The warmed dough is then transferred to the press, where the force of 32 tons of pressure extracts the translucent honey-colored walnut oil from the dough. Visitors are offered a taste of the just-pressed walnut oil. You’ll never taste walnut oil so fresh anywhere else.

There’s also a small museum to walk through, which also has a short film of the walnut harvest. There are incredible sculptures carved from walnut wood, art featuring the walnut, and educational plaques about the different varieties of walnuts grown in the Périgord.

In the shop, visitors can buy the locally made products of the walnut plantation.

The Ecomusée de la Noix is also a Périgord truffle plantation, and visitors are also welcome to learn about the process of truffle hunting. Noxo, the truffle dog, is happy to show off her truffle finding skills in a demonstration in the oak groves where truffles grow on the roots of the trees.

Beynac-et-Cazenac

The third and final of the most beautiful villages of France to pass by on the 16 kilometer canoe trip from Vitrac is the village of Beynac-et-Cazenac. This beautiful village sitting on the north bank of the Dordogne River has been the setting for a number of movies, and Americans may have seen it in Chocolat with Juliette Binoche and The Messenger: The Joan of Arc Story with Dustin Hoffman.

There are quite a few shops and restaurants in pretty Beynac, but it is best known for Château de Beynac that crowns the top of the clifftop village. Château de Beynac is the best preserved of the Dordogne’s more than 100 castles.

The oldest part of clifftop castle was built in the 12th century by the barons of Beynac. The sheer cliff face was deterrent enough, so the oldest part of the castle is a Romanesque keep built on the plateau with a double moat, double crenellated walls and a double barbican. It was enlarged in the 16th and 17th centuries.

During the Hundred Years’ War, Château de Beynac was held by the French. The Dordogne River served as the border between France and England, and Château de Castelnaud on the opposite bank was held by the English. For a brief time it was captured by Richard the Lionheart.

The castle has been listed as a monument historique (a designation given to some French heritage sites) since 1944 and was purchased and restored in 1962. Today it is like a living museum transporting visitors back to the times of Richard the Lionheart and Elinor of Aquitaine. You can explore the dungeons, great halls with their sumptuous tapestries and get an incredible 360-degree view over the Dordogne valley from the towers.

Where to Stay in the Dordogne

Château de La Malartrie

Château de La Malartrie is a castle hotel overlooking one of the most beautiful villages of France, La Roque-Gageac. The castle has five rooms, each unique and named after various castle of the Dordogne. The Commarque room is a family room and our personal favorite is the decor of the Milandes room. There are also two apartments that have kitchens and are perfect for longer stays or families/groups.

Breakfast is included and is a spread of delicious foods from local producers of the Périgord. There’s also an outdoor heated swimming pool. And you can book massages for a relaxing moment or to soothe sore muscles from paddling on the river.

Château Dans Les Arbes

Located about an hour drive away from Vitrac is Château Dans Les Arbes , or the “castles of the trees”. These unique accommodations are luxury tree houses built to resemble several of the real castles of the Dordogne.

Each tree house at Château Dans Les Arbes is unique, but all of them either have a nordic-style hot tub or jacuzzi on their deck. Some even have more than one bedroom and are perfect for a family or friends traveling together. Breakfast of local products is delivered to the tree houses each morning in a picnic basket guests haul up using a pulley system.

Château Dans Les Arbes also has an outdoor swimming pool for guests, offers other activities like table tennis, petanque and games, and has a network of hiking trails. See what other travelers have to say at TripAdvisor.

Know Before You Go

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Our trip to the Dordogne was in partnership with Dordogne Périgord Tourisme in order to bring you this story. However, Luxe Adventure Traveler maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. As always, all thoughts, opinions, and enthusiasm for travel are entirely our own. This article contains affiliate links. When you shop on Amazon or book on Booking.com through our affiliate sites, we earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.

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About Jennifer Dombrowski

Jennifer Dombrowski is an independent travel publisher and an American expat who has lived in Bordeaux, France since 2016. She previously lived in Northern Italy in a small village near Venice for seven years where she fell in love with wine and wine tourism. She is an award-winning travel writer. She is also a travel correspondent on Traveling on the American Forces Radio Network. Luxe Adventure Traveler was named one of the top travel blogs to watch by the Huffington Post and TripAdvisor, and has been featured by top publications such as National Geographic, CNN, Buzzfeed, and Business Insider. Jennifer's photography has also been featured on publications such as USA Today and Travel + Leisure and on the Travel Channel.

vanessa workman says

April 28, 2019 at 3:26 PM

What an amazing tour, I would love to visit all of these places. 3 hours worth of canoeing sounds like a lot, but the scenery is so stunning along the Dordogne I imagine you barely noticed how long you were paddling. La Roque-Gageac sounds especially interesting. Looks quite young for her ancient age too!

Carol Colborn says

April 28, 2019 at 11:56 PM

Canoeing Dordogne River for a few hours definitely gave you postcard perfect photos like the scene of Cénac-et-Saint-Julien from Vitrac and La Roque-Gageac & Castelnaud-la-Chapelles, two beautiful French villages.

April 29, 2019 at 1:29 AM

Canoeing the Dordogne sounds like such a great idea. Even better if you can plan a luxury stay at a chateau as well. A tree house at Château Dans Les Arbes sounds so fun. Good to know that the stretch between Vitrac and Beynac is the most scenic. And I was happy to hear there is a shuttle back after canoeing for 3 hours. I loved your photos of the sights along the way. A stop at the village of Beynac-et-Cazenac would definitely be something I would want to do.

Punita Malhotra says

April 29, 2019 at 7:53 AM

Another lovely region of France…this country has endless such! We visited few of the Les Plus Beaux Villages and each was prettier than the other. Canoeing…yes, please!

Tom Bourlet says

April 29, 2019 at 12:58 PM

Ah I’d love to canoe with that view! It’s incredible. I used to do a lot of kayaking on Brighton beach, but I’ve always heard it is much better on a river like this, where it softly pulls you along. Added to my list for 2020

April 30, 2019 at 3:37 AM

What an epic way to see areas of France. I love that you canoed along. Much more fun then being stuck in a tour bus and being shuffled around with a million others. Super convenient that they had a shuttle bus to pick you up though.

Renata says

April 30, 2019 at 5:43 PM

Wow – the landscape as such is so breathtaking – and taking these views in from a canoe rowing at your own pace must be just wonderful.

Rosemary says

April 30, 2019 at 9:58 PM

What a great way to explore the beautiful Dordogne region. Love the different options available, though the 3 hour trip sounds like fun. From your pictures, I’m guessing the waters were quite calm, which make it better 🙂 We recently started cooking with Walnut oil and I very much enjoyed reading about the experience at Ecomusée de la Noix. I’d love to sip on freshly ground walnut oil. Great article and I hope to visit the Dordogne soon…for the foie gras 🙂

Debra Schroeder says

May 1, 2019 at 12:31 AM

Such a fun way to explore that part of France. I like the idea of combining canoeing with a luxury hotel stay especially in a place like the Château de la Malartrie. 🙂

Tami Wilcox says

May 1, 2019 at 9:47 AM

I’m blown away by the beauty of these photos and what must be an incredible experience canoeing the Dordogne. This is something I would love to do. Now, I’ve just got to get myself back to southern France!

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The Dordogne: Canoeing France’s Most Beautiful River

The river valley is also home to the famous prehistoric cave paintings of Lascaux , as well Gallo Roman ruins and Medieval castles, proving that even the earliest humans found this region to be a great place to live. And, if the amazing scenery and historic castles aren’t enough to get you to this area, perhaps the food will. Southwestern France is known for its incredible cuisine and is home to duck confit, great pates (foie gras anyone?) and rich, bold red wines (learn more about France’s Wine Regions ). The food alone would get me to this area.

Canoeing the river is the best way to see this fairy-tale like countryside. The Dordogne River is wide and slow moving, making it a relaxing float and great way to see the surrounding area. The river is also slow moving enough that canoeing is the perfect activity for everyone from families with children to young adventure travelers to retired folks. Anyone can do this. Literally. After a near canoe flip in alligator infested waters in the Florida keys the year before, I was hesitant to ever get in a canoe with my father again—but even he did fine on this Dordogne canoe venture. All you have to do is sit and maybe do a little directional paddling.

Drifting slowing down the river allows you to see some of the beautiful quiet sections of the river that are not accessible any other way. For just a few Euros , you can rent a canoe and be on your way for a beautiful and cheap day in France’s most scenic region. Shop in a market and stock up your canoe with a picnic of local food and wines and stop for a picnic along the banks of the river. Find a great place to take a dip. Explore the caves and admire the waterfalls dropping into the river.

Where to Rent

Photo by tom maisey

Grand canoe trip on the Dordogne

          “Cruising Down the River on a Lazy Afternoon”

A super experience for everyone to enjoy

Welcome aboard the Rabaska , a real Indian-style canot which will take you on a voyage back in time in the wake of the Gabariers, the old-time Dordogne boatmen who carried the river trade between the High Dordogne and

Rabaska is an authentic 30-foot Canadian cargo canoe, witha 5-foot beam, carrying up to 15 passengers and embarking from the Quay at Port Sainte Foy.

Your state-qualified skipper has 30 years’ experience. He will guide you downstream in perfect safety, sharing with you his vast knowledge of the prolific bird life of the Dordogne –kingfishers, grey herons, cormorants and swans.

 As you paddle along, you will discover the beautiful and varieds cenery, the many villages and the chateaux

 which are so much part of the colourful history of the Dordogne Valley.

After a leisurely 3 hours or so, you will arrive at the historic port of Pessac, where your minibus will be waiting

  to take you back to Port Sainte Foy.

Make a day of it

Full day schedules with a picnic stop or lunch in a restaurant are available on request. Personalised itineraries

can also be arranged.

The trip is suitable for handicapped people

Reservation is essential for groups of 7 to 15 people.Individuals should also book in advance.

Daily Departures all year round: 09h00 and 14h00

Fully qualified guide , licensed to take handicapped passengers

All equipment supplied including lifejackets, paddles and watertight containers

    Fares :   The boat trip 6 km         : Adults 18€; children under 12- 10 €

The kingfisher boat trip : Adults 25€; children under 12 - 15€

                   Half day trips 12 km      : Adults 30€; children under 12- 20 €

                   Full day trips 25 km       : Adults 45€; children under 12- 25€

                   Special rates available for groups, minimum 10 persons.

                  ( Prices on application).

The Dordogne - One of France’s Greatest Rivers

The Dordogne rises among the volcanoes of the Auvergne on the Puy de Sancy. It is traditionally said to start at the confluence of two clear mountain streams, the Dore and the Dogne.

The river flows for more than 500 kms through the Puy de Dôme, the Cantal, the Corrèze, the Lot, theDordogne and the Gironde. At the Bec d’Ambès, it joins another mighty river, the Garonne, to form the Estuary of the Gironde, the biggest in Europe The lack of industry along the river banks makes for an outstanding environment of unspoilt natural beauty. The waters of the Dordogne areamong the cleanest in France and support a wide variety of fish including salmon, sturgeon, lamprey and shad.

Spot the Châteaux

                             On your voyage, you will pass:-

                                       Château de Baby 19th C

                                       Demeure de Cugat 18th C

                                       Château Picon 18th C

                                       Village d’Eynesse

                                       Château de St Aulaye 11th C

                                       Village de St Aulaye

                                       La Tour Beaupoil 18th C

                                       Château de Ribebon 18th C

                                       Manoir de la Bernède

                                       Château de Montbreton 11th C

                                       Château de Vidasse 15th C

                                       Village de Pessac sur Dordogne

         This company is open all year

             PRE - BOOKING

Note : veuillez remplir les champs marqués d'un * .

• Défiler vers le haut

Canoe the Rivers of the Dordogne; a highlight of your Dordogne trip

A day in a canoe drifting down the Dordogne River is one of our favourite pastimes.

Glide gently past Beynac , La Roque-Gageac and other small villages along the Dordogne, and see beautiful sections of the river that are not visible from elsewhere.

Canoeing in the Dordogne

From Souillac or Domme to Beynac see some of the key sites the Dordogne has to offer - the Chateaux of Beynac and Castelnaud , the beautiful villages of Beynac and La Roque Gageac and along the way the plum and walnet orchards and the rocky cliffs glide by. River beaches such as those at Vitrac tempt you to stop for a picnic.

Beyond Beynac the river is quieter and the scenery more gentle. If you can continue to Limeuil and the confluence of the rivers Dordogne and Vezere.

Canoeing along the Dordogne is safe for children (lifejackets are provided) although generally not possible with small infants and babies.

The hire of the canoe and equipment is reasonably priced and so as a day's entertainment it is good value as well.

There are plenty of places along the route where you can pull your canoe over to the river bank for a picnic, a paddle and a sunbathe.

A large 'screw top' plastic tub is usually provided to help stop your picnic and camera getting splashed by over-enthusiastic children.

At the start, the canoe hire company will usually drive you upstream in a minibus - you can then canoe back downstream with the flow of the river. Alternatively you start your canoeing from the hire centre and finish at a pre-marked location downstream, where a minibus will arrive every hour or so to collect people and canoes and take them back to their cars.

The important thing to note is that you are always canoeing with the flow of the river, not against it. Most canoe hire companies also offer a choice of distance, so that you can canoe for just half a day if a whole day sounds too much or too hot (a half day is typically 14km, a full day 28km).

It is also possible to get taken much further upstream and to spend several days moving down the river, usually camping en-route.

Canoe Hire Companies operating on the Dordogne and other rivers

Several canoe hire companies operate along the Dordogne River - your local tourist office will be able to help you find one that is suitable for you - several of the large ones are listed below. Canoeing on the River Dronne is also possible, usually starting from Brantome .

Prices tend to be around 11 euros for half a day (7€ children) or 15 euros for a full day (11€ children). Most companies also offer rates for 2,3,4 or 5 day trips.

If you are looking for a relatively leisurely day in a canoe we would recommend you stick to a half-day option (14km) especially if this is your first time or you have children with you. Have a picnic along the way and this makes for a great day out with time to wander into the local village for an ice-cream when you finish.

If you are more experienced or more active than a full day (28km) in the canoe is great.

There are lots of canoe hire companies on the Dordogne river - just look out for signs. These are some of the larger ones:

Here are some of the bigger companies. In July and August it is best to book ahead.

Canoe Dordogne - based in La Roque Gageac

Canoes Roquegeoffre - based in Port d'Enveaux, 3km from Beynac and 6km from St Cyprien on the D703.

CanoeEric - based in Le Bugue (follow signs for the aquarium, then another 150m). Whilst you can canoe the Dordogne with this company most of their canoes are on the Vezere river - no spectacular castles to see but lovely villages and a more peaceful stretch of river to enjoy.

Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the Dordogne countryside.

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