Le Hautefort Castle offers a unique experience for those looking to combine heritage, peace and nature. Unlike the medieval fortresses of the Périgord Noir, Hautefort is a masterpiece of classical architecture, inspired by the great châteaux of the Loire, but set in a typically Périgord rolling landscape.

What's new in 2025, the immersive tour route, the furnished lounges, and the vast formal gardens give the visit a rare cultural and sensory dimension. The château also organises night tours in summer, poetic and intimate, far from the crowds. A must for lovers of architectural beauty and exceptional places. off conventional radar.

Just a few kilometres from Hautefort, Saint-Robertone of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", remains surprisingly little-visited. Its cobbled streets, noble limestone houses and twelfth-century Romanesque church give it a discreet yet powerful charm. The village seems timeless, offering superb panoramic views over the hills of neighbouring Limousin.

It's the ideal place for a lunch break or a stroll at the end of the day after visiting the château.

The Vézère valley is famous for its prehistoric sites such as Lascaux, but some of the more isolated stretches of the river offer spectacular scenery that is seldom visited. Between Montignac and Terrasson, signposted footpaths follow the meandering river through woods, cliffs and breathtaking vistas.

Take an IGN map or use a hiking app to explore these sections. outside the traditional circuitsperfect for reconnecting with nature.

Nicknamed "the crystal cathedral", the Proumeyssac chasmnear Le Bugue, is often visited in classic mode. But few people know that it offers a cave tour An exclusive, small-group, gondola descent to relive the experience of the first explorers. A truly adventurous experience, to be enjoyed at sunrise or sunset, to avoid the crowds of tourists.

A great way to explore Dordogne underground in a different wayin the privacy of your own home.

Looking for freshness? Visit Lake Rouffiacin the north-east of the département, is a haven of peace surrounded by forests. Popular with locals but little-known to tourists, it offers supervised swimming, paddle-boarding, tree climbing, hiking and picnic areas in a totally natural setting. It's an ideal stop-off if you're travelling with the family and want to combine cultural visits with outdoor activities.

What's more, the site is less than 30 minutes from Hautefort Château, making it the perfect complement to a day of discovery.

Rather than the big tourist markets of Sarlat or Montignac, treat yourself to a more authentic immersion in the Thenon market (every Tuesday morning). This small market brings together local producers selling organic vegetables, home-made jams, fresh truffles in season, foie gras, honey, walnuts and cheeses. The atmosphere is simple and friendly, and the produce is of exceptional quality.

Perfect for a picnic or to bring home a real taste of Dordogne.