Tourism in Périgord noir: the complete guide

Published on 19/10/2021 - updated: 01 April 2026 - 4 min read - By Théo Mercier-Balaz

Contents

Key takeaways:

The Périgord Noir is located in the south-east of the Dordogne, with Sarlat-la-Canéda as its main town.
The region has several villages listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, including Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac.
Lascaux, a replica of the famous prehistoric cave, welcomes several hundred thousand visitors a year.
Outdoor activities are varied: canoeing on the Dordogne, hiking, tree climbing and swimming.
Périgord cuisine (foie gras, truffle, walnuts, ceps) is an integral part of the tourist experience.

The Black Périgord is one of the most visited destinations in southwestern France. Medieval castles, prehistoric caves, and villages ranked among the most beautiful in the country: this part of Dordogne attracts millions of visitors every year. Are you planning a stay in a campground with water park or in a holiday rental?

Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of tourism in Black Périgord, from must-see sites to outdoor activities, and everything in between including gastronomy.

What are the must-see sites in Black Périgord?

The Black Périgord concentrates a density of historical and natural sites. Sarlat-la-Canéda is the ideal starting point. This medieval town is home to one of the best-preserved architectural complexes in Europe. Its market, every Wednesday and Saturday morning, attracts food lovers from throughout the region.

The Dordogne Valley offers a string of classified villages. Beynac-et-Cazenac, clinging to its limestone cliff, dominates the river from its 12th-century fortress. La Roque-Gageac unveils its troglodytic houses backed against the rock. Domme, a fortified town perched on a promontory, offers a panorama of the entire valley.

On the prehistoric side, the Vézère Valley is a must-visit. The Castelnaud Castle and the Marqueyssac Gardens complete this overview with their views of the valley.

Claire’s tip: to enjoy the villages without the crowds, choose visits early in the morning or late afternoon. The low-angle light enhances the golden stones of Beynac and La Roque-Gageac.

Outdoor activities to discover with family

Tourism in Black Périgord is not limited to cultural visits. The region is full of activities for all ages, starting with canoeing.

The descent on the Dordogne remains the flagship activity. Several routes adapted for families allow you to glide between the cliffs. The Vézère offers shorter itineraries, perfect for young children. Hiking also appeals, thanks to over 300 km of marked trails with moderate elevation changes.

For thrill-seekers, several tree-climbing parks welcome young and old. Educational farms and animal parks complete the offer for the youngest.

Activity	For whom?	Average duration
Canoeing on the Dordogne	Families, couples	2 hours to a full day
Hiking	All levels	1 hour to 4 hours
Tree-climbing	Children and adults	2 to 3 hours
Cave visit	All audiences	1 to 1.5 hours

Gastronomy and markets: the flavors of Black Périgord

Black Périgord is also a land of gastronomy. It is impossible to stay in the region without tasting its local products.

Foie gras remains the flagship product of Dordogne. Black truffle, harvested from December to March, flavors the dishes of Périgord cuisine. Périgord walnuts, protected by PDO, are found in salads, cakes, and oils.

The market in Sarlat, Wednesdays and Saturdays mornings, is one of the most renowned in the southwest. In winter, the truffle market attracts connoisseurs from all over France.

Périgord foie gras benefits from Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) which guarantees its origin.
The Périgord walnut is the first French walnut to have obtained PDO status.
Strawberries from Périgord, cultivated in the Dordogne Valley, also carry a PGI label.
The cabécou of Périgord, a small goat cheese, perfectly accompanies a salad with walnuts.

« For a complete immersion, go to Sarlat market from 8am. Local producers offer tastings that are worth the trip.» – Claire

Where to stay to enjoy Black Périgord?

The choice of accommodation plays a central role in the success of your stay in Black Périgord. The region offers options for all budgets.

Camping remains the preferred accommodation for families in Dordogne. Campgrounds equipped with water parks are particularly appealing: heated pools, waterslides, and paddling pools guarantee successful vacations, regardless of the weather.

Bed and breakfasts, rural gîtes, and charming hotels complete the offer for those who prefer more traditional accommodation.

Dreaming of a family vacation combining cultural visits and swimming? Find your campground with water park in Dordogne and book your next stay!

FAQ — Périgord Noir Tourism

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit the Périgord Noir?

The best time to visit the Périgord Noir runs from April to October. May, June, and September offer a good balance between pleasant weather and moderate crowds. In summer, sites stay open longer. Winter also has some lovely surprises in store, particularly the truffle markets.

How many days should you plan for a stay in the Périgord Noir?

A stay in the Périgord Noir requires at least 4 to 5 days to enjoy the main sites. This is enough time to visit Sarlat, canoe down the Dordogne, discover Lascaux, and tour the listed villages. For a more complete stay including hiking and gastronomy, plan for a week.

Is the Périgord Noir suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The Périgord Noir is a destination much loved by families. Canoe trips are open to children from age 5. Lascaux offers tours suited to children. Tree-top adventure parks, educational farms, and campsites with water parks round out a rich offering of activities for younger visitors.

Which villages should you prioritize visiting in the Périgord Noir?

The villages to prioritize in the Périgord Noir are Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac, and Domme. These three sites offer panoramic views over the Dordogne valley and remarkable architectural heritage. Sarlat-la-Canéda also deserves several hours of your time, for its medieval lanes and market.

Can you visit the Périgord Noir without a car?

Yes, it's possible to visit the Périgord Noir without a car, but it takes some planning. Tourist shuttles connect certain sites during the summer season. Canoeing also lets you travel between several villages via the river. That said, having a vehicle remains the most practical way to fully enjoy the region.