What to do around Sarlat

  • 29 April 2025
  • News

Sarlat-la-Canéda is the beating heart of the Black PerigordA region rich in history, nature and gastronomy. If you're wondering what to do around SarlatThe region offers a host of unmissable activities: picturesque villages, enchanting landscapes, local specialities... and of course, the visit to the Château de Hautefortone of the most beautiful castles in Dordogne.

Sarlat-la-Canéda is the beating heart of the Black PerigordA region rich in history, nature and gastronomy. If you're wondering what to do around SarlatThe region offers a host of unmissable activities: picturesque villages, enchanting landscapes, local specialities... and of course, the visit to the Château de Hautefortone of the most beautiful castles in Dordogne.

10 must-do activities around Sarlat

Visit the most beautiful villages around Sarlat

Just a few kilometres from the city, discover some of the world's best-known sites. France's most beautiful villages :

  • La Roque-Gageacnestling between the cliffs and the river, offers a unique charm.

  • Beynac-et-Cazenacwith its perched medieval castle, majestically dominates the Dordogne valley.

  • DommeThis fortified bastide offers an exceptional panoramic view of the Périgord.

These villages are perfect for travellers looking for authentic heritage and an authentic exits in Dordogne typical.

A visit to the Château de Hautefort is a must!

Around 35 minutes from Sarlat, the Hautefort Castle is an architectural marvel well worth a visit. This 17th-century jewel, a listed historic monument, stands out for its classical elegance and its formal gardensperfectly maintained and unique in Périgord. In 2025, the Château de Hautefort carried out major restoration work and modernised its tour route to really immerse visitors in the great century.

During the visit to the Château de Hautefortyou'll discover :

  • 4 completely restored rooms;

  • 3 newly created rooms;

  • a unique immersive experience in the Périgord ;

  • one of the most beautiful panoramic views of Dordogne.

The grounds of the château are also an ideal place for holidays in the Périgord NoirThis is the place to be in the great outdoors, with outdoor walks and family events in summer.

Not to be missed the night tours the castle's magical and poetic summer events!

Activities around Sarlat for nature lovers

The Périgord Noir is also a natural paradise. Among the many activities around Sarlatwe find :

  • Hiking and cycling in the surrounding forests and valleys,

  • Canoe trips on the Dordogne or the Vézère,

  • Walks in the Périgord-Limousin Regional Nature Park.

Then there's a visit to the famous Lascaux caveslocated in Montignac, around 30 minutes from Sarlat. Ideal for those looking for what to see in Périgord Noir on a cultural and nature break

Tasting local Périgord specialities

You can't visit the region without savouring its gastronomic delights. Whether you opt for a market, a bistro or a farmhouse inn, here are a few not-to-be-missed places:

  • Périgord foie gras,

  • Black truffles,

  • Nuts,

  • Duck confit,

  • Bergerac and Monbazillac wines.

It's also a perfect answer to the question what to visit near SarlatThe food here is a destination in itself!

A new restaurant has opened its doors at the Château de Hautefort: le Dix-Sept, offering traditional dishes revisited with daring and gourmet flair.

Also read on the blog

Discover the Hautefort estate

Parks and châteaux to visit in the Dordogne

Restaurant & shop

Discover our new restaurant, relax in the shop and take home an authentic Hautefort souvenir!

Daily entertainment

Every day, Château de Hautefort strives to give you the best possible insight into its history. That's why your admission ticket includes a guided tour of the...

The English-style grounds of the château

The English park was born in the 18th century under the influence of philosophers and artists such as the poet Alexander Pope, who advocated a return to nature.

The formal gardens of Château de Hautefort

Hautefort has had formal gardens since the 17th century. These were redeveloped over the following centuries to give way to a...

Hautefort Castle in the heart of the Dordogne

Château de Hautefort, the jewel in the crown of Périgord, boasts a rich history and grandiose architecture. In 2025, the Fondation du chât...

An exceptional architectural and natural heritage

  • Château de Hautefort, 1 esplanade du château 24390 Hautefort
  • 05 53 50 51 23
  • Every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

find each other

  • Château de Hautefort, 1 esplanade du château 24390 Hautefort
  • 05 53 50 51 23
  • Every day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Access to the castle

  • 2025 / Château de Hautefort