© 2006 SARL Classic French Homes

Page Updated November 6, 2007

Dordogne & Vezere

A visit to this area would not be complete without a trip to the Dordogne and Vezere rivers. For those who are more active, canoes can be hired for one hours enjoyment or several days adventure. For those with relaxation more in mind the beaches, towns and historic sites that sit upon the banks of both rivers are a sight not to be missed.

The Dordogne river is 490 km long, and is born at the Puy de Sancy and throws itself into the Garonne. Its valley is rich with prehistoric sites and over 100 km of navigable river. The river has the reputation of being the cleanest in Europe. The most interesting canoeing course is between Argentat (Correze region) and Limeuil (Dordogne region). The views are stunning throughout with the most prestigious sites such as the castles of Montfort, La Roque Gageac, Castelnaud, Fayrac and Beynac.

The Dordogne meets the Vezere at Limeuil, where canoes may be hired to explore both.Beynac stands proud overlooking the River Dordogne. It has been voted one of the most beautiful towns in France.

The Vezere is a tributary of the river Dordogne and is 192 km long. There is 48km of uninterrupted navigation between Montignac/Lascaux and Limeuil. The best seasons for Canoeing are April to October and for rafting January to April. The Vezere joins the river Dordogne in Limeuil, after passing many natural and historical sites on its banks.

For those interested in canoeing we recommend hiring a canoe at Limeuil, situated at the confluence of the Dordogne and Vezere rivers. Limeuil is a picturesque town where you can canoe either the Vezere or the Dordogne. If any of the party do not want to canoe there is plenty to do at Limeuil with a beach to laze on, restuarants to eat in and a pretty town to explore.