Sarlat is a great base for exploring the surrounding area and here are a few suggestions for some easy day trips from Sarlat. You could easily cover several of the places below in the same day. Check the map in order to get an idea of where these sites are located and how far apart they are from each other.
Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac [15 mins]
Perched high above the Dordogne Valley, you’ll find the beautiful gardens, Les Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac. Listed as a National Historic Monument, these gardens are a must on your Dordogne itinerary. There are over 150,000 hand-pruned boxwoods, 6kms of paths, rock gardens and breathtaking viewpoints. There is a via ferrata as well as a number of playgrounds, a treetop circuit and the skeleton of a 150 million- year-old allosaurus! Every Thursday evening during the summer, crowds flock to the romantic candlelit evenings – les soirées chandelles – when an incredible 2000 candles are lit and placed throughout the gardens. A truly magical experience.
La Roque Gageac [20 mins]
Listed as one of the ‘plus beaux villages de France’, La Roque Gageac is a stunning village that’s nestled between the limestone cliff face and the Dordogne river. Wander through the streets and explore the dwellings that are carved into the rock face or head for the water for a trip on a gabarre. It offers a completely different viewpoint of the village and makes for some great snaps. There is even a small tropical garden due to the unusual sheltered position of La Roque-Gageac.
Domme [20 mins]
Located on a clifftop above the Dordogne valley, the town of Domme combines stunning landscapes, history and architecture. The origins of this medieval town date back to 1281 when Phillippe III decided to turn it into a defensive bastide. Wander through the picture postcard streets, admire the breathtaking views, visit the underground cave or learn about the fascinating knights Templar prison. You can easily spend a half day to a full day exploring this beautiful town either on foot or on the fun little tourist train. Join in with the locals by visiting the weekly market on a Thursday.
>> Check out this organised tour if you want to combine a visit to Domme, Beynac and a boat trip <<
Chateau de Castelnaud [20 mins]
One of the must-visit chateaux in the Dordogne, be sure to add the Chateau de Castelnaud to your Dordogne itinerary. It’s a stone’s throw from the Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac and would make a great combined day’s outing. This impressive fortress stands proud above the Dordogne Valley and river. There is plenty of medieval weaponry – think trébuchets, swords, crossbows, chainmail and more.
>> Check this post for our top tips for visiting the Chateau de Castelnaud <<
Chateau de Beynac [20 mins]
Across the valley from the Chateau de Castelnaud, you’ll find its former arch-rival, the Chateau de Beynac. This 12th century fortress domineers the town of Beynac from its imposing position high above the town and river. It has undergone extensive renovation works and is an incredibly well-preserved medieval castle. Highlights include the kitchens, the dungeon and the views… Prepare for lots of ‘ooooohs’ and ‘aaaahs’ as you admire the stunning panoramic vistas from the castle. You can park in the carpark close to the castle or alternatively in the village, however, be prepared for a very steep 15 minute walk up to the chateau. We also recommend exploring the charming village of Beynac and if you have time, jump aboard a gabarre (flat-bottomed boat) for a trip down the Dordogne river.
Château les Milandes [20 mins]
And now to complete the trio of must-visit castles, we head to Josephine Baker’s former home. This is more of a fairytale castle than a defensive fortress. It was built for Lord Francois de Caumont’s wife who found her home (Château de Castelnaud) too austere. In 1947, Josephine Baker fell in love with the castle and purchased it with her husband Jo Bouillon. She lived there for many happy years with her 12 strong rainbow tribe of adopted children until she tragically lost it to bankruptcy. Her legacy lives on and visitors can discover many of her stage outfits – including the iconic banana skirt – as well as the role she played within the French resistance during the 2nd World War. The gardens have been beautifully restored to their original design and visitors can enjoy a daily bird of prey show.
>> Planning on visiting many of the Dordogne’s castles? Head here for our guide on must-visit châteaux in the Dordogne! <<
Your Ultimate Guide to Sarlat [+video!]
What a wonderful bucket list. I have totally changed my itinerary and we really appreciate the highlights you have listed. Thank you. I know our trip to France will be so much more special because of what I have read here.