Sarlat and the Dordogne in summer: 6 must-see spots to explore by van or motorhome

With limestone cliffs, medieval villages and prehistoric caves, the Dordogne is an ideal playground for road-trippers. Here are our top picks for an unforgettable summer adventure.

The Dordogne guarantees breathtaking landscapes, a rich history and mouth-watering local specialities. In summer, the region buzzes with colourful markets, refreshing river swims and walks among castles and caves. With your van or motorhome, you’re free to follow winding roads, stop wherever you fancy and savour every moment. Here are six unmissable places to visit.

Sarlat-la-Canéda

Step into the medieval heart of the Dordogne with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and lively market. Don’t miss the Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral and its magnificent organs.

Where to sleep nearby

Les Noyeraies du Lander Campsite ★ 4.9 Peaceful walnut grove 2 km from the centre, flat parking for 10 motorhomes. Free guided tour and artisan atmosphere. › Bookable motorhome area Sarlat-la-Canéda Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Shaded pitch 10 minutes from the centre, warm welcome. Quiet and authentic for a rustic overnight stay. › Camping les Acacias/ Sarlat Campsite ★ 4.6 Family-friendly campsite 4 km away, spa pool and free shuttle. Spacious, shaded pitches. › La Croix Rouge, Sarlat-la-Canéda Motorhome area ★ 4.5 Free parking at Carrefour Market, quiet and flat. Toilets and shops within walking distance. › Leclerc shopping center parking Sarlat-la-Canéda Parking ★ 3.8 14 reserved spaces at Leclerc, easy bike access. Free and convenient for visiting Sarlat. ›

The Lascaux Caves

Explore the ‘Sistine Chapel of Prehistory’ and its 17,000-year-old cave paintings. A visit to Lascaux IV, an exact replica, offers an unforgettable immersive experience.

Where to sleep nearby

Parc de Loisirs Motorhome area ★ 4.8 Private area 900 m from Montignac, full amenities. €10 per night, rated 4.8 (256 reviews), 24-minute walk. › Village parking Valojoulx Parking ★ 4.6 Large free and flat car park, 24/7 toilets. 5 km away (5-minute drive), rated 4.6 (73 reviews). › La Ferme Aux Canard Du Bois Bareirou Campsite ★ 4.7 Farm with free grass parking, local produce. 6 km away (7-minute drive), rated 4.7 (159 reviews). › Le domaine du Terroir Campsite ★ 4.9 Forest estate with 10 free shaded pitches. 45-minute walk, rated 4.9 (26 reviews). › Vézère riverside parking Montignac-Lascaux Parking ★ 4.4 Shaded parking by the Vézère, direct village access. 18-minute walk, rated 4.4 (19 reviews). ›

The Dordogne Valley (Castelnaud-la-Chapelle)

Take in the river’s meanders from the Castelnaud belvedere, with stunning views of Beynac and Castelnaud castles. A canoe trip on the river is a must for thrill-seekers.

Where to sleep nearby

La Ferme de Turnac Campsite ★ 4.9 Organic farm with valley views, 10 spacious pitches. 7-minute drive, rated 4.9. › Pine forest clearing parking Saint-André-d'Allas Parking ★ 4.8 Secluded forest clearing, stunning sunsets. Free, 7-minute drive. › D47, Sainte-Nathalène Motorhome area ★ 4.8 Private area 6 km from Sarlat, all amenities included. €12, quiet and green. › Camping La Ferme de Villeneuve Campsite ★ 4.9 Family campsite with pools and castle views. 7-minute drive, rated 4.9. › Bookable motorhome area Sarlat-la-Canéda Motorhome area ★ 4.7 Shaded parking 11 minutes’ walk from the centre. Warm welcome, rated 4.7. ›

Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil

The world capital of Prehistory, this village is home to the National Museum of Prehistory and numerous rock shelters. A journey through time not to be missed.

Where to sleep nearby

Camping Le Tilleul - (ancien Camping Bouyssou) Campsite ★ 5 3-star campsite in nature, pool and warm welcome. 6 km drive, rated 5/5. › Camping Ferme de la Brauge Campsite ★ 4.9 Peaceful farm setting, pool and heated toilets. 5 km drive, rated 4.9/5. › Roadside parking near castle Campagne Parking ★ 4.5 Spacious parking opposite Château de Campagne. Free, 5 km drive, rated 4.5/5. › Free parking along the railway track Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil Parking ★ 4.1 Quiet parking near the railway, 7-minute walk. Free, close to Les Eyzies centre. › Shaded Grand Roc cave parking Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil Parking ★ 4 Shaded parking by the Vézère, facing Grand Roc. Free, 22-minute walk. ›

Beynac Castle

Perched on a cliff, this medieval castle offers spectacular views over the Dordogne Valley. Its ties to the Hundred Years' War and impressive architecture make it a fascinating place to visit.

Where to sleep nearby

Dordogne riverside parking Bézenac Parking ★ 4.3 Wild spot by the Dordogne, swimming allowed. 6-minute drive, secluded and free. › Slow Village Saint-Cybranet Campsite ★ 4.8 4.8/5 campsite with pools and river access. 6 km away, natural and comfortable. › Crouzet parking Beynac-et-Cazenac Parking ★ 3.7 Motorhome-only parking, €8 per night. 6-minute walk to the castle, toilets on site. › Camping la Plage Campsite ★ 4.6 4.6/5 campsite by the Dordogne, near La Roque-Gageac. 33-minute walk, shaded pitches. › Camping le Tiradou Campsite ★ 4.7 4.7/5 family campsite, heated pool. 32-minute walk, 27 spacious pitches. ›

The Rouffignac Cave

Hop aboard a small train to explore this cave adorned with prehistoric drawings, including mammoths and woolly rhinos. A unique underground adventure.

Where to sleep nearby

Rouffignac caves parking Parking ★ 4.1 0-minute walk to the cave, forest parking with water and seasonal toilets. Rated 4.1, 16 reviews. › D706, Tursac Motorhome area ★ 4.5 Vézère riverside, 20 grassy shaded pitches for motorhomes. 7-minute drive, rated 4.5. › Camping EAU Naturelle Campsite ★ 4.9 2-star campsite, natural pool and stream, preserved setting. 7-minute drive, rated 4.9. › Camping Vezere Campsite ★ 4.7 Heated pool and children’s slides, shaded forest. 6-minute drive, rated 4.7. › Camping à la Ferme Fournet Campsite ★ 4 Farm campsite by the Vézère, river swimming. 6-minute drive, rated 4.0. ›

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