Category: Dordogne
Exploring the Dordogne: A Village-Hopping Dordogne Road Trip
Are you dreaming of exploring the Dordogne? In Episode 561 of the Join Us in France Podcast, I talk with Jackie Barnes about her travels through this beautiful part of southwest France. Jackie’s story is part Dordogne travel guide, part personal reflection, and a great example of how a Dordogne road trip can be the highlight of a holiday in France.
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Why Visit the Dordogne?
The Dordogne is famous for its medieval towns, castles, prehistoric caves, and beautiful river valleys. It’s a region where every bend in the road reveals another postcard-worthy view. For many travelers, it feels like stepping into old-world France without the crowds of Paris. If you’re planning a Dordogne holiday, this episode offers both inspiration and practical Dordogne tourism tips.
A Dordogne Itinerary: Villages You Can’t Miss
Jackie shares her experience village-hopping through some of the most charming Dordogne France villages. Here are a few highlights we cover in the episode:
- Sarlat-la-Canéda – the heart of the region, with its Saturday market and golden-stone streets.
- Domme – perched high above the Dordogne River, offering stunning panoramic views.
- La Roque-Gageac – one of the most photographed villages in France, built right into the cliffs.
- Rocamadour – a UNESCO World Heritage site and dramatic pilgrimage destination.
- Collonges-la-Rouge – famous for its deep red sandstone buildings.
- Conques – home to the remarkable Sainte-Foy Abbey and a stop on the Camino de Santiago.
Each of these villages makes a Dordogne road trip feel like a step back in time.
Dordogne Castles and Caves
Of course, no Dordogne itinerary would be complete without mentioning the castles and caves. We talk about Château des Milandes, once home to Josephine Baker, and the countless fortresses dotting the hillsides. For those fascinated by prehistory, the Dordogne is also home to the famous Lascaux cave paintings and the Gouffre de Padirac cave system. These sites add depth and variety to any Dordogne holiday ideas you might be considering.
Practical Dordogne Tourism Tips
Jackie and I also dive into the practical side of travel. Driving in the Dordogne can be both a joy and a challenge. Roads are narrow and winding, but they lead to places you simply can’t reach without a car. We also talk about the pace of travel—how easy it is to overload your Dordogne itinerary and why it’s better to focus on fewer villages and really enjoy them.
Markets are another highlight of a Dordogne road trip. From Sarlat to smaller towns, local markets offer everything from walnuts and truffles to Cahors Malbec wine. Food is central to the Dordogne experience, so leave plenty of time to linger over meals.
Why This Episode Matters
What makes this episode special is Jackie’s perspective. She doesn’t just list places—she reflects on what drew her to the Dordogne and why she could even see herself buying property there someday. For listeners dreaming of longer stays, this is both a Dordogne travel guide and a window into the possibilities of life in France.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a two-week holiday or just love learning about French culture, Episode 561 gives you a rich introduction to one of France’s most enchanting regions. Exploring the Dordogne through its villages, castles, and caves is a journey full of history, beauty, and memorable experiences.
If you’re considering your own Dordogne road trip, take this as your invitation. Start in Sarlat, wander through Domme and La Roque-Gageac, step into Rocamadour, and let the Dordogne work its magic.
Listen to the full episode to hear Jackie’s story and my own tips for planning your Dordogne itinerary
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TranscriptCategory: Dordogne