Self-Guided Trail in the Dordogne

50 miles with 8 - 12½ miles and up to 1,480 feet of ascent in a day.

Day 1: Arrive in Souillac - Explore the narrow streets of the old town and its 11th century Romanesque church.

Day 2: Souillac to Meyronne - Through the woods above the Dordogne for magnificent views of the small farms and villages below. Riverside paths then wind from Blanzaguet to St Sozy, affording you the opportunity to explore a number of interesting caves en route to Meyronne. 11 miles with 1,148 feet of ascent, 4hrs 45mins.

Day 3: Meyronne to Rocamdour - Walk across the valley gently ascending onto the “Causse” de Gramat, a high limestone plateau. Follow a pleasant trail through green and fertile countryside to the village of Rocamadour, clinging to the side of a narrow gorge. 8¾ miles with 885 feet of ascent, 4hrs.

Day 4: Rocamadour - Free day to relax and explore the medieval town of Rocamadour and its seven religious sanctuaries. There is also the option of taking a circular walk around Rocamadour.

Day 5: Rocamadour to Loubressac - Walk across the limestone plateau to Alvignac, where you can taste the local waters. Continue through the Combe Molière Valley and visit the subterranean cave system at Padirac. Pleasant sandy paths lead you on to the village of Loubressac. 12½ miles with 984 feet of ascent, 5hrs.

Day 6: Loubressac to St Cere

Follow the edge of a limestone plateau descending to the charming village of Autoire, nestled in a gorge, with many fine old houses. The trail continues past the Château de Presque to the village of St Jean-Lespinasse. On the way to St Céré, stop to visit the elegant Château of Montal. 10 miles with 1,480 feet of ascent, 4hrs 45mins.

Day 7: St Cere - Free day to relax and explore the pleasant old market town of St Céré. There is an optional local walk in the surrounding hills.

Day 8: Depart after breakfast or stay an extra night in St Céré to relax and explore the area.