Enjoy an easy self-guided walking adventure through the beautiful Perigord countryside, passing the charming towns of Montferrand, Monpazier, Molieres and other historic villages along the way. Visit the Cistern Abbey of Cadouin and the Castle of Biron. Enjoy warm hospitality at three very unique & charming hotels and be spoiled every night by a gourmand's dinner with fine local dishes.
An excellent gastronomical walking trip from the banks of the charming and meandering Dordogne River up to the higher wooded grounds of the Périgord plateau. Follow hidden footpaths right through the picturesque French countryside. Arrive on foot at the historic honey-coloured village of Montferrand, the Cistern Abbey of Cadouin and imposing Biron Castle. End your trip in Monpazier, a jewel of a 'bastide' included on the well-known list of 'the most beautiful villages of France'. And along the way, enjoy comfortable overnights and delicious dining in three attractive, small family-run hotels which we have hand-picked for you for this trip.
Day 1: Arrival in Badefols-sur-Dordogne
On your arrival you'll be welcomed to the small and charming hotel of Hélène de Roton-Couderc, right on the banks of the Dordogne. After checking in, you may wish to wash the dust away with a dip in the hotel's lovely swimming pool. This evening, it will be difficult to choose among all the delicious courses on the excellent menu. (D)
Day 2: Circular walk from Badefols-sur-Dordogne
A lovely circular walk right from the hotel's front door. Start along the high and wooded south bank, toward the village of Calès. Then follow the varied terrain of the so-called 'Boucle de Calès', along the 'haute' and 'basse rives' of the Dordogne. Enjoy lovely vistas over the river, with its steep banks. Lie down in the grass for a picnic right on the waterfront. When you return to the hotel, there'll be time to go for a swim or play some tennis. And in the evening, before another gorgeous dinner, as an aperitif, a glass of crisp, local Monbazillac wine in the hotel garden. (B.D) Today's challenge: 12 km Villages along the way: Badefols-sur Dordogne, Calès
Day 3: From Badefols-sur-Dordogne to Le Salvetat
Relaxing walk from Badefols-sur-Dordogne to the hamlet of Le Salvetat. First stroll through the truly beautiful deciduous forests full of oaks, chestnuts, and beech trees. In springtime, wild flowers abound, including several species of orchids. And in autumn you'll find a palette of unlikely yellow, red and golden colours. Halfway through the route, you come to the 'bastide' of Molieres, just in time for a lunch stop. Then continue through the vast 'Foret de Bessadois', full of game animals. Finally you reach your next accommodation: a lovely restored farmstead, in a very quiet natural setting. When the weather is fine, your tasty dinner will be served on the spacious terrace with views. (B.D) Today's challenge: 16 km Villages along the way: Badefols-sur-Dordogne, Molieres, Le Salvetat
Day 4: Circular walk from Le Salvetat
Optional rest day or do an easy stroll to the pretty village of Cadouin where you can visit the imposing Cistercian Abbey, dating from the 12th century. This walk can also be extended with a route through the nearby woodlands. When you return to the hotel, enjoy a drink on the shady terrace or a refreshing plunge in the swimming pool. Tonight you will once again be spoilt with a fine dinner. (B.D) Today's challenge: 6km or 15 km Villages along the way: Cadouin
Day 5: From Le Salvetat to Monpazier
Today's walk is somewhat longer, but may be shortened by including an additional transfer. A beautiful and varied route along narrow trails through undulating wheat fields, monumental farmhouses, and woodlands full of red and roe deer and wild boar). Stop off in the picturesque, honey-coloured village of Montferrand-du-Périgord, then carry on to the small 'bastide' town of Monpazier, one of 'Les plus beaux villages de France'. Your accommodation is a lovely hotel at the edge of the historical district which serves fine 'cuisine'. (B.D) Today's challenge: 20km Villages along the way: Montferrand-du-Périgord, Monpazier
Day 6 Circular walk from Monpazier
Today depart on a splendid walking tour to Château Biron where you can visit this imposing Medieval castle. Along the way, you'll enjoy a picture perfect landscape of small pastures alternating with dense groves of trees. Be sure to leave time to visit the enchanting lanes of tiny Monpazier, with interesting local shops and some art galleries. Weather permitting, an "au revior, Périgord" farewell dinner will be served in the hotel garden. (B.D) Today's challenge: 14 km Villages along the way: Monpazier, Biron
Day 7 Departure from Monpazier
After a typical French breakfast your trip comes to an end. (B)
Getting there:
If you are arriving at one of the international airports or railway stations of France, you can then travel by train to Belves. A transfer service is available from the railway station in Belves to your first accommodation (not included). You can also book a private transfer from the cities of Cahors or Bergerac. The nearest airport to your starting point (Badefols-sur-Dordogne) is Bergerac.
Optional Services:
Transfer from Belves railway station to first accommodation (Euro 70). Transfer from Begerac airport (Euro 125).
Additional Information:
The Challenge: Easy to moderate. Lodging: Attractive and charming 3-star family-run hotels, all with fine local cuisine. Tour Departure: Daily from April 01 to October 22.
