Tranquil Trails and Culture on Dordogne Walking Holidays

Flat areas of soft limestone, medieval towns, and walnut groves create a serene cadence across the Dordogne and Lot-Quercy. From the summits of Rocamadour to the relaxed slope across the Gorges de l'Ouysse, the southwest France region is a place where history, scenery, and serenity meet. Amongst the woodland valleys and open Causse plains, the walk is an introduction to a leisurely style of existence, with the peaceful river strolls and ancient stone villages.

Dordogne Walking Holidays offers a carefully planned itinerary on this diverse landscape, with luggage transfer so every walk is easy and unencumbered. The journey is six days of hiking, 11 to 19 kilometers per day, along mostly empty trails and roads. Traveling east from Souillac via villages like Carennac and Autoire, sleeping in handpicked hotels varying from rustic charm to luxurious comfort. The trips are presented in three categories: plus, superior, and luxury, each with its own blend of setting and ease.

The region's recognition by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve is a testament to its natural riches. Hikers can explore sites like the Gouffre de Padirac and even spend a night or two long enough to visit the famous Lascaux caves in the region. Height gain is minimal, so the experience is accessible to anyone who wants beauty without challenge. Summits are tranquil views over the Causse de Quercy, and time spent in the endless atmosphere of Rocamadour, one of France's most popular pilgrimage sites.

Trains from Paris or Toulouse provide direct access to Souillac, the walking start, with the added advantage of car parking security at the hotel for car travelers. More evenings can be added at any point along the way to have a little more time to rest where the heart feels at home.

Dordogne Walking Holidays are more than a holiday. They're a tender invitation to rejoin nature, heritage, and the delight of movement. Every step is a means of seeing more clearly, feeling more keenly, and sensing the stillness of one of France's most enchanting regions.