Welcome to the land of wine, foie gras, magnificent prehistoric caves and stunning chateaus: the Loire Valley and the Dordogne. In the course of this tour you will delve into the rich past of this region. The buildings, castles, and chateaus from previous centuries have been remarkably well preserved, allowing visitors to truly touch and feel the era of knights, fair maidens and the royal worlds they inhabited.
- Join local experts on fascinating walks through the Loire River Valley
- Meet vineyard owners and enjoy tastings in one of the finest wine-growing regions anywhere
- Study the remarkable and world-renowned caves of Lascaux
Itinerary option
Day 1: Arrival day
Transfer from the airport to Sarlat.
Day 2: Sarlat, Dordogne and market day
Enjoy a tour through the charming town of Sarlat, and explore the farmers markets of Place de la Republique. Sarlat is the walnut and foie gras capital of France.
Day 3: The Dordogne Valley
Today’s walk through the Dordogne Valley follows the Dordogne river until reaching the 13th-century fortified town of Domme. With its thick stone walls, built on a hill approximately 150 meters (500 feet) above the river, entering Domme can feel as if time has stood still.
Day 4: Vezer Valley
Walk to Saint-Leon-sur-Vezere, an exquisite village by the river with a slate-roofed church and two chateaus from the 14th and 16th centuries.
Day 5: The Lascaux IV Cave
Enjoy a visit to the meticulously reproduced prehistoric masterpiece. The Lascaux IV Cave, a replica of the original Lascaux Cave discovered in 1940, enables the public to get up close and personal with the wonderful, replicated paintings while keeping the original cave safe from damage.
Day 6: Beynac
Beynac-et-Cazenac village can be seen from quite a distance as it rises above a cliff edge on the North bank of the river. Enjoy a walk in and around Beynac – classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Day 7: Campagne
Full-day walking excursion in the forest of Campagne. Learn about the local history and natural heritage of this famous area.
Day 8: The caves of Dordogne
Visit the cave of Cougnac and discover the prehistoric cave paintings which are dated to the upper Paleolithic era.
Day 9: Loire Valley
Transfer to Tours in the Loire Valley which is known for its massive castles.
Day 10: Chateau de Villandry and Chateau Moncontour
Walk along the river and visit two castles: Chateau de Villandry with its breathtaking gardens, and Chateau Moncontour with its historic vineyards and cellars.
Day 11: Chateau d’Amboise
During the guided visit of the chateau, enjoy great views of the Loire Valley. Walk along the river from where you have a beautiful view over the Chateau Chenonceau, built directly over water.
Day 12: Departure day
Transfer to the airport.
Important Information
Best time of travel
May to October
Ideal duration of stay
8 to 10 days
Activity level
easy to moderate
