guide
The Dordogne is ideal for canoeing along nearly 150 km of rivers, from the Valley of the Castles route between Beynac and Castelnaud, to the Vézère with its troglodyte villages, the Dronne, nicknamed the “green Venice” of the Périgord, and the wilder Auvézère. Each route combines striking natural scenery with historical heritage, making it accessible to all levels.
Looking for an adventure full of adrenaline and thrills? What could be better than discovering the secrets of the Dordogne on the water by canoe? Famous for its rivers, this region is full of privileged views and exceptional scenery. To give yourself plenty of time to discover their magic, a stay at one of the riverside campsites would be an excellent option. Over a stretch of 150 km, you can enjoy your passion for canoeing in complete safety. All you need to do is grab your gear and try one of the most beautiful trails on the peaceful rivers of the Dordogne.
This is one of the most highly recommended adventures for discovering the Dordogne by canoe. Renowned for the quality of its waters, this river takes you past numerous fortresses, such as the Château de Beynac and the Château de Castelnaud. Keen photographers will capture shots worthy of a film set. La Roque-Gageac and Domme are among the Most Beautiful Villages in France that you can pass through during this trip on the water. This is the perfect spot for a swim break to make the most of the route.
As you drift with the current of the Vézère, the scenery keeps unfolding before your eyes. You can also choose a quiet spot for a picnic in the shade of the trees. As you paddle down this river, you’ll have the chance to discover the troglodyte villages of La Madeleine and La Roque Saint-Christophe. This region is also known for its prehistoric sites, such as Les Combarelles in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac and the decorated caves of Font-de-Gaume.
The Périgord vert offers visitors and canoeing enthusiasts an escape along the Dronne, revealing a rich and varied natural heritage. On this wonderful route, you’ll certainly pass through Brantôme and the Green Venice of the Périgord. The water jousting tournaments and the Grotte du Jugement Dernier are among the highlights of this stretch of river. The Château de Bourdeilles is also an essential detour on this water adventure.
Are you a nature lover looking for a peaceful, safe river trip? Or are you after a thrilling experience that gets your adrenaline pumping? The Auvézère is a river that will carry you between white water and calm water, changing with the terrain. This route, lined with wild vegetation and alluvial plains, is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing moment or venture deep into nature.
Now you know that your passion for canoeing can take you through a variety of landscapes and views to discover this region and its waterways. Choosing a stay at one of the riverside campsites in the Dordogne would be an excellent idea to make the most of this spot and uncover its hidden secrets along the water.
The Dordogne (Valley of the Castles route), the Vézère, the Dronne (green Venice of the Périgord) and the wilder Auvézère each offer a different experience, from family-friendly stretches to livelier water.
The castles of Beynac and Castelnaud, as well as the villages of La Roque-Gageac and Domme, ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.
The troglodyte villages of La Madeleine and La Roque Saint-Christophe, as well as prehistoric sites such as the Font-de-Gaume and Les Combarelles caves.
The route alternates between calm and livelier water depending on the terrain, making it suitable for a relaxed outing as well as a bit more thrill.
The department has around 150 km of navigable rivers, spread across several routes suited to all levels.
