Dordogne: Gourmet Walking

On your arrival you’ll be welcomed to a small and charming hotel, right in the center of Belvès. Discover the magic of this village, a medieval gem in the heart of the Dordogne. Wander cobblestone streets, savor local delicacies in vibrant markets, and dine in intimate bistros as the sun sets over rolling hills. Immerse yourself in history with ancient architecture and underground caves.

Overnight: Belvès. Dinner is included this evening.

Distance: 17.5 km

A lovely circular walk right from the hotel’s front door.  The forest occupies the first part of the route before the views gradually open up over the Dordogne valley below. After the ridge-top villages of Saint-Germain-de-Belvès and Cladech, the descent to the valley begins through cultivated fields, offering fine views over the valley. Back at the hotel, there’ll be time to relax or have a drink on one the terraces of Belvès. Why not try a glass of crisp, local Monbazillac wine as an aperitif. In the evening enjoy another tasty dinner in one of the restaurants in the village.

Overnight: Belvès.

Distance: 15 km

Today you will enjoy a relaxing walk from Belvès to the Medieval village of Cadouin, built around an imposing 12^th century Cistercian Abbey. First stroll through the truly beautiful deciduous forests full of oaks, chestnuts, and beech trees, where absolute tranquility reigns. You will catch glimpses of centuries-old stone bridges and quaint hamlets, each with its own story to tell. In springtime, wildflowers abound, including several species of orchids. In autumn you’ll find a palette of unlikely yellow, red and golden colours and you’ll have a wide range of wild fruits to choose from (blackberries, raspberries, hazelnuts and chestnuts).

At the end of the day, you arrive at your next accommodation: La Salvetat de Cadouin, a former 12^th-century presbytery built on 14 hectares of meadow and woodland in the Forêt de la Bessède.

Overnight: Cadouin

Distance: 13 km

Today has been left free to do as much or as little as you like. You may choose to spend your time relaxing on the terrace or visit the nearby imposing 12^th-Century Cistercian Abbey.  Alternatively, you can enjoy a 13 kilometre walk through the nearby woodland. Tonight you will choose a place for dinner from among the fine local restaurants in the village..

Overnight: Cadouin

Distance: 15 km

This morning you start off with a transfer to the picturesque honey-coloured village of Montferrand-du-Périgord. Today’s route is a beautiful and varied trek along narrow trails through undulating wheat fields, woodlands full of roe deer and wild boar and past monumental farmhouses. Your day ends at the small 13^th-Century ‘bastide’ of Monpazier. Built by Edward I, it was also home to Richard II for a time and is regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Your accommodation for the next two nights is in a spectacular 19^th-Century chateau on the edge of the village. Once again, the dinners served at this hotel will not disappoint.

Overnight: Monpazier

Distance: 13- 18 km

Your last day of walking might be the most beautiful route of the program: a splendid walking tour to the Château Biron and an optional visit to this imposing Medieval castle. You can stop for lunch at the “auberge”. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a true painter’s palette of quintessential Perigord landscapes. Weather permitting, an “aurevior, Périgord” farewell dinner will be served in the hotel garden.

Overnight: Monpazier

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning, unless you have booked any additional services.