Dordogne — Castles, Villages & Prehistoric France
A private Dordogne journey through Lascaux, Sarlat, river villages, medieval castles and refined countryside hotels.
An overview
Experience the heart of the Dordogne and Périgord Noir with an immersive private journey through Sarlat, Lascaux, scenic river valleys, honey-colored villages, cliff-top castles and gardens. This thoughtfully paced itinerary blends history, prehistory and countryside relaxation, including expert guides, curated activities, and handpicked hotels for a refined introduction to one of France’s most atmospheric regions. Ideal for families and travelers seeking depth, flexibility and access to both tradition and nature.
- 6 nights in the Périgord Noir with carefully selected town, country or château hotels
- Private exploration of Sarlat-la-Canéda and its celebrated market traditions
- Lascaux IV with expert interpretation of prehistoric art and the Vézère Valley
- Beynac, La Roque-Gageac and a seasonal river journey aboard a traditional gabare
- Cliff-top gardens, panoramic viewpoints and medieval architecture along the Dordogne
- Family-friendly pacing with adaptable walking and time to enjoy the hotel
Day by Day
Bordeaux or Bergerac → Sarlat — Entering the Périgord Noir
Meet your private driver at Bordeaux, Bergerac or Brive and travel into the landscapes of the Périgord Noir, transitioning from open countryside to walnut groves, limestone cliffs and honey-hued villages. Settle into your hotel in or near Sarlat and enjoy an orientation walk depending on your arrival time. The evening is free, with a table booked at a restaurant serving regional cuisine tailored to your preferences.
Sarlat — Market Traditions & Golden-Stone Streets
Explore Sarlat with a private guide, uncovering Renaissance mansions, quiet lanes, the cathedral quarter, and the rich array of protected architecture in the old town. On Wednesday or Saturday, stroll the local market and meet purveyors of walnuts, cheeses, breads, seasonal fruit and other Dordogne specialties. A cooking class, picnic or food-focused lunch can be arranged before a relaxed afternoon at your hotel.
Beynac, La Roque-Gageac & the Dordogne River
Follow the Dordogne Valley with your private driver-guide, starting with the clifftop village and fortress of Beynac to discover how the river and its castles shaped medieval history. Continue to La Roque-Gageac, dramatically set between cliff and water. In season, board a traditional-style gabare for a gentle cruise and enjoy the valley’s châteaux, villages and wooded hillsides from a unique perspective.
Lascaux & Montignac — The First Great Artists
Travel to Montignac for a guided visit to Lascaux IV, where a full-scale cave replica and immersive storytelling reveal the artistry and imagination of prehistoric painters. Continue through the Vézère Valley with an expert to place Lascaux in the wider context of shelters, rivers and early human life. The day may also include Montignac, a museum or a hands-on creative workshop before moving to your next hotel.
Les Eyzies & the Vézère Valley — A Journey Through Deep Time
Spend the day around Les Eyzies, the European hub of prehistoric research. Visit the National Museum of Prehistory or a selected archaeological site with a specialist guide, tailoring the level of detail for all ages. The afternoon might offer a riverside walk, a demonstration of ancient techniques or leisure time at your hotel, ensuring the marvels of human origins are both engaging and accessible.
Domme, Castelnaud & the Gardens of Marqueyssac
Begin in Domme, a fortress town with sweeping views over the Dordogne. Continue to Castelnaud or a similar château for a private dive into medieval life, defensive architecture and the region’s layered past. Finish at Marqueyssac gardens, where sculpted boxwood, shaded trails and dramatic viewpoints frame the valley. Return to your hotel for a final evening at leisure.
Departure or Continue to Bordeaux, Cognac or the Loire
After breakfast, your private driver transfers you to Bordeaux, Bergerac or Brive airport, the nearest rail station, or onwards to your next destination. Itineraries can be extended toward Rocamadour, the Lot Valley, Bordeaux, Cognac or the Loire, or adapted with more countryside stays and garden visits.
A bespoke proposal can be tailored to your dates and party.
Recommended hotels in Sarlat, Lascaux and the Dordogne Valley
The itinerary can be based from a single central base or with two contrasting stays — near Sarlat and in the Vézère or lower Dordogne Valley. Hotels are chosen for location, room type, pool or spa access, restaurant programming, and to minimize drive times.
Sarlat & Dordogne Valley
A sophisticated four-star hotel at the edge of Sarlat’s medieval center, chosen for its top location, well-appointed rooms, spa facilities and effortless access to the old town on foot.
A refined estate overlooking the Dordogne Valley, featuring rooms and suites in a 19th-century manor and villas, providing a calm country atmosphere within a short drive from Sarlat.
A romantic five-star château set high above the Dordogne River, renowned for its stunning position, historic rooms, formal gardens and destination feel at the edge of the wider valley.
Lascaux & Vézère Valley
A distinctive four-star hotel in a heritage-listed 17th-century building close to Montignac and Lascaux, perfect for travelers seeking history, ambience and fast access to the Vézère Valley.
A well-located hotel in the heart of Les Eyzies, appreciated for its garden setting, spa, regional restaurant and instant access to the National Museum of Prehistory and key prehistoric sites.
Final hotel and room assignments are confirmed in your private proposal and are subject to availability. Château and country properties may be seasonal, and some historic buildings have limited lift access or distinctive room layouts.
In your journey
- 6 nights at carefully selected hotels in the Périgord Noir, with breakfast daily
- Private arrival, regional and departure transfers, plus transportation for scheduled touring
- English-speaking licensed guides, driver-guides and specialist experts as described
- Private guided exploration of Sarlat, Beynac, La Roque-Gageac and selected villages
- Reserved admission and guided experience at Lascaux IV
- Private Vézère Valley and Les Eyzies prehistory program
- Reserved admission to selected castles, museums and gardens in the confirmed itinerary
- Seasonal gabare river journey when operational and included in the final proposal
- Market-led food experience or private regional cooking activity as confirmed
- Restaurant recommendations and concierge support throughout the planning process
Worth knowing
- International or domestic flights and rail tickets
- Lunches and dinners unless specifically stated
- Hotel city tax, personal expenses and minibar charges
- Optional spa treatments, additional museums and experiences not listed in the confirmed proposal
- Personal purchases at markets, boutiques and workshops
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, hotel teams and local hosts
- Travel insurance and extensions not listed in the confirmed itinerary
A sense of place
Questions, answered
Anything else on your mind? Speak to a concierge directly.
+1 210 303 9960Yes. Transportation, guides and scheduled experiences are arranged exclusively for your party unless otherwise requested.
A journey rewritten in your name
Share your dates, your party and the moments that matter. We'll return a private proposal within 48 hours.
