The Dordogne Valley has captured my heart over many visits – I simply can’t stay away! I fell completely in love with the majestic castles that crown nearly every dramatic limestone cliff. Each time I return, I discover another medieval fortress with its own fascinating history, from the imposing Château de Beynac proudly perched above the river to the fairytale turrets of Château de Montfort reflecting in the water below.

Kayaking along the emerald waters of the Dordogne River has become one of my favorite activities. I’ve spent countless summer afternoons paddling beneath towering cliffs, drifting past golden stone villages, and stopping at river beaches for impromptu picnics of local cheese and wine. There’s something magical about approaching these historic sites from the water, the same way travelers might have centuries ago.

Beyond the castles and the river, I’ve explored the region’s prehistoric wonders at Lascaux and Font-de-Gaume, wandered through picturesque villages like La Roque-Gageac and Domme, and indulged in the exceptional gastronomy that makes this region a paradise for food lovers. Each visit to the Dordogne reveals new layers of its rich tapestry of history, natural beauty, and French country living at its finest.