
Grottes de Presque, Saint-Cere
These caves were originally discovered in 1825 and house some impressively large stalagmite pillars reaching up to 10 metres in height and varying in colour.
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
To the east of Dordogne on the edge of Causses du Quercy regional park
Picturesque village typical of Quercy. The traditional houses have corbelled fronts, brown-tiled roofs and pigeon lofts built into their walls.
Fortunately tourism has done nothing to damage the tranquillity of Autoire, which is listed as one of 'Les Plus Beaux Villages de France' (The Most Beautiful Villages in France).
It's not hard to see how it has earned this title as the narrow road that leads you into the town brings you directly to a pretty town square, complete with a fountain and overflowing flowers.
The dramatic limestone cliffs are home to the Roque d'Autoire, also known as the Château des Anglais, an ancient fort set into the cliff above the town.
The walk up to the ruins is via a rather steep path, hard work in the blistering heat of a summers day. However, you will be rewarded with some fantastic views across the small valley, out over the plains of the vineyards and fruit trees and of the pretty town below.
Not far from the town of Autoire you will find the Gouffre de Padirac, an underground cavern and river that offers spectacular views of the stalactites and stalagmites of the Dordogne region.
These caves were originally discovered in 1825 and house some impressively large stalagmite pillars reaching up to 10 metres in height and varying in colour.
The original fortified castle and surrounding village are thought to have been built at some point in the 13th century and further added to in the 15th century.
Situated in the heart of the town of Autoire, this 12th century catholic church is like many others in the Quercy region and was fortified during the Hundred Years War.
There are only two restaurants in the town but both have terraces so that you can enjoy the comings and goings of the town and the views that it offers.
At the beginning of November, the Sauternes and Barsac Châteaux opens its doors for a weekend in which more than 50 estates welcome the public to sample their wines.
The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.
Apart from enjoying a coffee or meal in this delightful place, you'll find yourself keen to explore the small streets and enjoy the architecture of the town. Honey coloured houses with turrets, and fronts covered in ivy, will make you envious of the owners.
Another treat is to take a hike along the valley by the river to the waterfalls situated at the foot of the limestone cliffs. This hike through the forest offers a welcome respite from the strong rays of sun and a beautiful site at the end with the water cascading over moss-covered rocks.
For a slightly longer and more challenging walk you can complete the 'cirque' (circuit) back to town on the far side of the river, taking a detour up to the Roque d'Autoire and the ruins of the Château des Anglais.
If you prefer something a little more relaxing, the town is the perfect setting to get out your watercolours and to do a little sketching. You may well find groups of tourists already sitting on stools with sketchbooks in hand, so why not join them.
Although just 25km this circular route from Rocamadour does cross some challenging terrain. Partly on river path and some parts on road, you will need to have some experience of cycling to enjoy this route fully.
This Voie Verte (greenway) has been created along the track of an old and now unused railway line.
This short stretch of Voie Verte (greenway) is perfect for families looking to stretch their legs in the Dordogne countryside, without having to conquer any hills climbs.
A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).
This walk is wonderful and relaxing way to explore the valley of Autoire and the horseshoe shaped cliff band that guards it to the south-west.
Part of a long distance towpath, there is an interesting section cut out of the rocky cliff face between Bouziès and Saint-Cirq Lapopie which was used to drag barges along the river Lot. It's about five kilometres between the two villages and is a stunning section of the river.
With stunning views over the Lot river and the town of Cahors this walk is worth it just to enjoy the views.
Following part of the GR6 route through the Dordogne this walk takes you from Lalinde on a circular route through the surrounding countryside.
A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).
Situated at the foot of Carennac village this watersports centre offers more than just fun on the water! They offer three main activities; canoeing or kayaking, group canoeing with up to six people in the same boat, and adventure trekking with overnight camping out in the wild.
Offering various routes along the Dordogne river to enjoy the sights of the Perigord Noir region. Discover hidden treasures during a relaxing journey down the river.
Enjoy a relaxing day close to nature as you canoe along the river and explore the waterways of this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Hire a canoe or kayak from this company and you can enjoy a gentle river cruise and the chance to explore the wonderful Dordogne river and its banks.
Enjoy a single or multi-day trip down the river Dordogne to town such as Beynac, Castelnaud, Montfort and Fayac.
This area provides water-sports for all ages. Renowned for its architectural heritage and sites of natural beauty, you will find that paddling is a great way to relax and have fun whilst enjoying the scenery.
A recently built house owned by an architect and an interior designer who have created a beautifully finished property that evokes the local style yet is thoroughly modern, exuding flair and taste.
A haven of tranquillity, Lou Calvel sits within private woodland in the picturesque Lot region of South West France where the densely forested landscape teems with a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Hedgerows of bluebells, posies and colourful orchids provide both walkers and keen photographers with much to admire while local market stalls always offer a wealth of freshly harvested, seasonal produce including asparagus, herbs and a wide variety of wild mushrooms.
This recently renovated semi-detached stone village house is a delightful addition to our collection of properties in the picturesque Dordogne region. Situated along one of the narrow lanes in the village of Prats-du-Périgord, La Croix is a restoration that blends the traditional with the contemporary to great effect.
Surrounded by a patchwork of fields and forests in the picturesque Perigord Noir area, the charming village of Prats-du-Perigord, with its honey coloured stone buildings topped with pitched roofs of deep red tiles, is most typical of the region.
The undulating countryside north of the River Lot is dotted with chestnut woods and stone villages. In a tiny hamlet, close to the border with the Dordogne (3km), sits La Maison Fleurie, a picturesque stone cottage, adorned with pots of colourful flowers.
Nestling on the side of a hill at the end of a hidden valley, close to the medieval bastide of Najac, the first glimpse of La Sérénité, framed by walnut trees, is its steeply pitched roof atop beautifully restored stone walls. As you arrive along the sweep of drive, the impressive stone façade of this stunning property is revealed in all its glory.
The only hotel in the town in the lovely Auberge de la Fontaine situated right in the heart of the village, overlooking the pretty central square and fountain. The building itself dates to the 18th century and offers a tranquil environment for visitors.
Situated in the north of the Lot department and close to the Upper Dordogne river the town of Autoire is not far from neighbouring town of Saint-Cére and the well-known pilgrimage site of Rocamadour. A horseshoe of limestone cliffs offer a pleasant backdrop and some delightful countryside to explore.