Day 1: London to Le Bugue
We travel on the morning Eurostar from St Pancras International to Paris, where we join our train to Brive. From here we transfer by coach to Le Bugue and check into our home for the next five nights, the 3-star Hotel Royal Vézère. (D)
Day 2: La Roque-Gageac and Dordogne cruise
This morning is free to explore the charming town of Le Bugue.You can take a stroll along the river, or maybe wander through the narrow streets and admire the lovely traditional houses. After lunch we journey to La Roque-Gageac, a captivating village on the banks of the Dordogne nestled under overhanging cliffs. Exotic gardens flourish in La Roque-Gageac and a winding path past botanical gardens leads visitors up to incredible troglodyte caves set into the craggy rock face.We have some time to explore before we take to the water in a traditional flat-bottomed gabare boat, which can navigate through exceptionally shallow water. Our trip takes us gently down the river past rolling countryside and five of the prettiest châteaux in the valley, with a commentary giving us an insight into the tumultuous history of the region. (B,D)
Day 3: Souillac and Sarlat
This morning we travel to Souillac, built on the site of a priory established by Benedictine monks in the 10th century. Here we can visit the weekly market, with stalls piled high with fresh local produce, and enjoy a stroll through the cobbled streets.We move on to Sarlat after lunch, an incredibly picturesque town in the heart of the Dordogne. The medieval Old Town, with its labyrinth of alleyways and buildings built in warm honey-coloured stone, is virtually unchanged since the Middle Ages. (B,D)
Day 4: A day at leisure
Today is at leisure, so why not take the opportunity to visit the impressive Gouffre de Proumeyssac, also known as the Crystal Cathedral? The huge cavernous spaces are beautifully illuminated by a Son et Lumière show, and you can admire the splendid stalactites and stalagmites. (B,D)
Day 5: Rocamadour and Martel
This morning we travel to the spectacular village of Rocamadour, perched high over the meandering river below. Rocamadour is built into the craggy cliff-face, and has been a pilgrimage site for centuries. The town rises up in levels, and is crowned by l’Hospitalet, the abbey which is the final destination of the devout.We continue on to the medieval village of Martel after lunch, distinctive due to its seven towers standing out against the sky. After time to explore the village, we take a ride on the restored Truffadou Steam Train through stunning scenery, passing over snaking ravines and by the side of rugged cliffs. (B,D)
Day 6: Le Bugue to London
We transfer by coach to Brive where we join our train to Paris and change to the Eurostar for St Pancras International. (B)
Your hotel
The 3* Hotel Royal Vézère is beautifully set on the banks of the River Vézère in the centre of the bustling village, with lovely views of the surrounding countryside from the terrace. The hotel has a restaurant, bar and swimming pool, plus all rooms are equipped with a hairdryer, mini bar, television, telephone and free internet access.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
back to top
