The Périgord—historic heart of the Dordogne, with touches of neighboring Corrèze—ranks among our family's top French destinations. With visits in 2011, 2015, and most recently over Ascension weekend under glorious sun, we've curated this trusted guide to our favorite family-tested spots.
Revise your geo with eza: The department of LA DORDOGNE
Grab your notebooks—these are battle-tested recommendations from our family's adventures. Practical tips, accommodations, and itineraries ahead.
How to Reach Périgord
Opt for the Paris-Brive intercity train (4 hours)—pack snacks and water, as service is limited compared to TGV. Rent a car at Brive station from Sixt or Europcar.
Where to Stay in Dordogne
Our handpicked, family-approved options span budgets.
2-Star Campsite: Jeanne's Cabins offer cozy 'cabin' lodging with a pool and trampolines—perfect for adventurous family nights.
Perched huts and the swimming pool
Round huts version:
4-Star Campsite: Domaine de Fromengal in Buisson de Cadouin—from tents to 3-bedroom bungalows. Exceptional welcome, kids' supervision, pools, slides, trampolines, and garden-fresh meals. Quiet location; we loved our two nights and plan to return.
Even in rainy crowds, it shines.
Gîtes: Au Pré de l’Arbre—charming houses 10 minutes from Sarlat center, with a large chlorine-free pool amid greenery. Spacious, private, and owner-run; our 2015 two-week stay was ideal for families.
Top Dordogne Attractions
Immerse in lush greenery for instant relaxation. Activities suit hikers, history buffs, families—everyone.
Our latest 4-day circuit:
Isabelle, tour guide hello. A 4-day circuit idea. Thanks Google.
Thank you Semitour especially.
Gardens of Eyrignac, Salignac
Experience 22 generations' legacy across 10 hectares of masterful topiary. Seven springs, optional guided tours. Kids love riddle trails with prizes. Family pass (2 adults + up to 3 kids/teens): €39. Dine at Côté Jardins (book ahead in peak season).
Lascaux IV, Montignac—Essential; book ahead. Latest reconstruction in a modern venue captures the prehistoric magic (original closed since 1963). Context on ancient climate wows kids. No photos inside; explore exhibits after. Adults €16, kids 5-13 €10.40. On-site dining excellent.
Post-cave exhibits with photos allowed.
Sarlat-la-Canéda—Charming medieval streets, lively evenings with performers. Check tourist office for kids' tours and workshops. Producer shop near Hôtel Albizia; bike the safe 50km greenway (rentals at liberty-cycle.com).
Grand Roc Cave & Laugerie Basse Shelter, Les Eyzies—Troglodyte wonders, Cro-Magnon history, stunning formations (UNESCO). Interactive tablets engage kids.
Breathtaking troglodyte site.
Grand Roc's calcite marvels.
The Shelter
Cloister of Cadouin—Serene UNESCO gem with audioguides; Cistercian history fascinates all ages. Post-visit: organic ice cream nearby.
Biron Castle—Unfurnished fortress (film site); summer kids' activities like heraldry and hunts. Hosts Fondation Maeght exhibit (June-Nov 2017).
Parc du Thot—Hands-on prehistoric workshops, animal encounters complementing Lascaux. Recent wolves (adapting).
Animals and trails at Thot.
Dordogne/Vézère canoe trips (try Canoë Sans Frontière south of Sarlat)—memorable family fun. Beynac and Castelnaud Castles offer immersive shows.
Share your tips below! For more, check local sites or our Rocamadour/Padirac guide.
