Sarlat-la-Canéda and the Vézère Valley: a van adventure through prehistoric lands and golden stone
Wander the medieval lanes of Sarlat, explore the prehistoric caves of the Vézère and admire the Dordogne cliffs from your campervan. A road trip blending history, nature and gastronomy.
Here, time seems to stand still. Between the half-timbered houses of Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of France’s most beautiful detours, and the prehistoric sites of the Vézère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, every turn brings fresh wonder. In your van, you’re free to roam these treasures of the Périgord Noir, where the golden stone of the buildings meets the lush greenery of the hills and the winding river. Lace up your walking shoes, grab your camera and bring your appetite: the adventure begins.
Old town of Sarlat-la-Canéda
© Wikimedia CommonsLose yourself in this maze of cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, Renaissance mansions and lively squares. The medieval atmosphere is tangible, especially on Saturday mornings when the market fills the Place du Marché aux Oies.
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Lascaux Cave
© Wikimedia CommonsNicknamed the 'Sistine Chapel of Prehistory', this cave holds 17,000-year-old cave paintings, including the famous bulls and horses. Today, it’s Lascaux IV, a faithful replica, that immerses you in the thrill of discovery.
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Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil
© Wikimedia CommonsThe world capital of Prehistory, this troglodyte village nestles at the foot of a limestone cliff dotted with rock shelters. Don’t miss the National Museum of Prehistory to trace the story of humanity.
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Château de Castelnaud
© Wikimedia CommonsThis 13th-century fortress overlooks the Dordogne Valley and houses a Museum of Medieval Warfare, one of Europe’s finest. Archery and trebuchet demonstrations will delight young and old alike.
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La Roque-Saint-Christophe
© Wikimedia CommonsThis spectacular troglodyte site, carved into an 80-metre-high cliff, has served as a dwelling and fortress from Prehistory to the Renaissance. The visit offers unrivalled views over the Vézère.
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Belvès
© Wikimedia CommonsListed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages, Belvès charms with its half-timbered houses, arcades and seven church steeples piercing the sky. Its Saturday morning market is famed for local produce, such as Périgord walnuts.