Dordogne's Hidden Treasures on Foot - 8 Days

Arrive at the tiny village of Cressensac-Sarrazac, deep in a green valley on the edge of the Causse de Martel. Accommodation: Hotel La Bonne Famille is a 3 * Logis. The cellar of this establishment was formerly a smithy where, three generations ago, the blacksmith’s wife would serve refreshments to waiting customers. The hoteliers are as hospitable as their ancestors, the smithy has vanished, and guests are housed in a venerable building with swimming pool nearby.

Near the half-way point is the picturesque village of Turenne, with its famous castle towering over the surrounding countryside. The dark red sandstone of Collonges' mullioned windows and towers is a stunning sight, as you approach it in the afternoon. Ascent 396m/Descent 420m Accommodation: Le Relais du Quercy is a comfortable 2 * Logis hotel with pool near the centre.

Over undulating country to Curemonte, a mediaeval village where the writer Colette once lived. The day ends with a long descent of an ancient cobbled mule-track into Beaulieu. The town is built on the right bank of the Dordogne and owes its fame to the Romanesque church of the former Benedictine monastery. Make sure you take the time to visit the Abbey Church with its magnificent doorway. Ascent 588/Descent 626m Accommodation: Hotel Le Beaulieu is a well-appointed 3 * hotel in a quiet street, close to the Dordogne, where you can dine overlooking the water on a summer’s evening.

Today you’re walking from the department of the Correze to the Department of the Lot. The day begins with a climb up through woodland where you will find 3 nature information posts. The walk continues with sweeping views across the countryside. Cross the Dordogne river to approach Carennac and take the time to enjoy wandering the winding streets of this beautiful village. Ascent 345m/Descent 365m Accommodation: You stay at Hotel Fenelon this is an elegant family-run hotel 2 * Logis with swimming pool in the centre of this lovely and historic village on the banks of the Dordogne. Excellent restaurant with a good local reputation.

Today you walk along the limestone ‘causse’ to the Gouffre de Padirac which is an underground maze of majestic tunnels and stalactites. You can take an underground boat ride here to discover the magnificent caves in all their beauty. We recommend booking your visit online to ensure easy access as you don’t have to queue if you have pre booked. www.gouffre-de-padirac.com. Allow 2.5–3hrs minimum walking time as the Gouffre is 8.9kms from Carennac. There are plenty of places for refreshments if you arrive early, you don’t want to miss your pre-booked tour time. Ascent 352m/Descent 171m >> *Note: Loubressac is one of those rare villages that are still able to evoke another time and place. The following extra walking options are available so why not consider an extra night here. Please find details in the 9-Day Itinerary tab and in the 'Options & Supplements' section below. > Option 1: Complete Circuit - Chateau de Castlenau, Autoire & Cirque - 19.5km/12 miles. It is worth walking around the castle with it's excellent views all around the ramparts. > Option 2: Chateau de Castelnau Circuit - 14km/8.7 miles > Option 3: Autoire & Cirque Circuit - 13.5km/8.4 miles. Autoire has fine old houses or "gentilhommierers". Autoire is listed among the 157 prettiest villages in France. --- Alternatively, just take a day off and explore this village with its important buildings such as the church of Saint-John Baptist, built in the 14th century. Another highlight of this village is the fantastic views in almost all directions. Accommodation: Hotel Le Cantou 354 is a 2 * Logis hotel. It is located in the middle of this very pretty village and opposite the 'village green'. It is perched at 354 metres where you can see the Dordogne, Causse, Cere Valley & Segala on a clear day.

Today you retrace your route to Gouffre de Padirac and thereafter follow quiet leafy lanes and tracks through beautiful countryside to arrive at the viewpoint at L’Hospitalet, from here take time to enjoy a stunning view of the ancient pilgrimage site, the village of Rocamadour perched on a steep cliff. Ascent 295m/Descent 452m Accommodation: You spend 2 nights at the 2* Le Bellevue. This cosy, family-run hotel offers traditional hospitality, comfortable rooms, and scenic views over Rocamadour from every window.

Today there is an optional circular walk around Rocamadour. This is an easy to medium route and will take no longer than 3.5 hours. You might want to walk it in the morning before visiting all the sights. Ascent 407m/Descent 407m

Departure from Rocamadour after breakfast.