Choosing the right accommodation can make all the difference to your Dordogne experience. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful retreat, the Dordogne offers a diverse range of charming places to stay.
Get ultimate traveler plannerBest Places to Stay in the Dordogne
From quaint villages to picturesque castles, the Dordogne region of France is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delectable cuisine.
A Variety of Options
To help you plan your perfect Dordogne escape, we’ve compiled a list of the best places to stay, catering to all tastes and budgets.
Discover charming hotels, cozy guesthouses, luxurious chateaux, and idyllic campsites nestled amidst the rolling hills and sparkling rivers of this enchanting region.
Best Places to Stay in the Dordogne
The Dordogne, a region in southwestern France, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles, prehistoric cave paintings, and charming villages. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful retreat, the Dordogne offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget.
Charming Villages and Towns
The Dordogne is dotted with picturesque villages and towns, each with its unique character and charm. Staying in one of these charming locations allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the surrounding countryside at your leisure.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda is a quintessential Dordogne town, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, bustling market square, and abundance of gourmet restaurants. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Harpers Ferry)
- Accommodation Options: From charming guesthouses and boutique hotels to luxurious chateaux, Sarlat offers a wide selection of places to stay.
- Things to Do: Explore the historic center, visit the local market, take a cooking class, or go on a wine tour.
Beynac-et-Cazenac
Perched on a clifftop overlooking the Dordogne River, Beynac-et-Cazenac is home to one of the region’s most impressive castles.
- Accommodation Options: Choose from cozy hotels, traditional guesthouses, or self-catering apartments with stunning views.
- Things to Do: Visit the Château de Beynac, stroll along the riverbank, or take a boat trip.
La Roque-Gageac
La Roque-Gageac is a picturesque village built into the cliffs of the Dordogne River.
- Accommodation Options: Find charming hotels and guesthouses nestled among the village’s winding streets.
- Things to Do: Explore the village’s unique architecture, visit the gardens of Marqueyssac, or take a scenic boat trip.
Countryside Retreats
For a more secluded and peaceful experience, consider staying in a countryside retreat. The Dordogne’s rolling hills, vineyards, and forests offer a tranquil setting to unwind and reconnect with nature.
Gîtes and Farm Stays
Gîtes are traditional French holiday homes, often located in rural areas. Many gîtes are available for rent, offering self-catering accommodation with all the comforts of home.
- Pros: Privacy, spaciousness, self-catering facilities, often pet-friendly.
- Cons: May be located in remote areas, limited amenities.
Farm stays provide a unique opportunity to experience rural life firsthand. Guests can help with farm chores, learn about local agriculture, and enjoy fresh, home-grown produce.
Chateaux and Manors
For a truly luxurious experience, consider staying in a historic chateau or manor. These grand estates often feature stunning architecture, elegant interiors, and expansive grounds.
- Pros: Unique and historical setting, luxurious amenities, often with swimming pools and gardens.
- Cons: Can be expensive, may be located in remote areas.
Camping and Glamping
The Dordogne is a popular destination for camping and glamping. With its beautiful natural scenery, there are numerous campsites and glamping sites to choose from. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Moosehead Lake)
Campsites
Campsites offer a variety of accommodation options, from basic tents to fully equipped mobile homes.
- Pros: Affordable, close to nature, family-friendly.
- Cons: May be crowded during peak season, limited amenities.
Glamping
Glamping combines the great outdoors with the comforts of home. Glamping sites offer unique and stylish accommodation options, such as yurts, treehouses, and safari tents.
- Pros: Comfortable and stylish, often with private bathrooms and kitchens.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than traditional camping.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
When choosing the best place to stay in the Dordogne, consider your budget, travel style, and interests.
- Budget:**
- Luxury:** Chateaux, manor houses, boutique hotels
- Mid-Range:** Guesthouses, charming hotels, gîtes
- Budget-Friendly:** Campsites, hostels, farm stays
- Travel Style:**
- Romantic Getaway:** Chateau, boutique hotel, gîte with a fireplace
- Family Adventure:** Gîte with a garden, campsite with activities, farm stay
- Solo Travel:** Hostel, guesthouse, charming hotel
- Interests:**
- History and Culture: Sarlat-la-Canéda, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac
- Nature and Outdoor Activities: Camping, glamping, gîtes in rural areas
- Food and Wine: Stay in a region known for its cuisine, consider a cooking class
Recap
The Dordogne offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every taste and budget. From charming villages to countryside retreats, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful region of France. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a peaceful retreat, the Dordogne promises an unforgettable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of accommodation is best in the Dordogne?
The Dordogne offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all tastes and budgets. Popular choices include charming gîtes (traditional stone houses), cosy hotels, luxurious chateaux, and campsites. Consider your preferences for amenities, location, and group size when making your decision.
Where are the most picturesque villages to stay in the Dordogne?
The Dordogne is home to many beautiful villages. Some popular choices include Beynac-et-Cazenac, with its stunning castle overlooking the Dordogne River, La Roque-Gageac, a village built into the cliff face, and Sarlat-la-Canéda, a medieval town with a vibrant market square. (See Also: Best Places To Stay St John)
What is the best time to visit the Dordogne?
The best time to visit the Dordogne is during the shoulder seasons, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October). The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the scenery is breathtaking. Summer (June-August) can be hot and crowded, while winter (November-March) is quieter but some attractions may have limited hours.
Are there any family-friendly accommodations in the Dordogne?
Absolutely! Many gîtes and hotels in the Dordogne cater to families with amenities like swimming pools, playgrounds, and children’s activities. Look for properties that offer babysitting services or are located near family-friendly attractions like theme parks or zoos.
How can I find the best deals on accommodation in the Dordogne?
To find the best deals, book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season. Consider staying in smaller villages or towns outside the main tourist areas. Look for special offers and discounts on websites like Airbnb, Booking.com, or directly through the accommodation provider’s website.
