Cascade D'autoire ©otvd V.bouvier.0795 2There’s no doubt that the Dordogne Valley can get quite warm. Most vacationers, especially the peak seasoners, happily welcome the idea of a quick cool down somewhere nice. But imagine how more satisfying it would be if that cool down came with a spectacular waterfall?
Whether you need to hike to reach it or simply stumble upon it, the region’s waterfalls are a further testament to the amazing natural heritage of the Dordogne Valley.
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Cascade Autoire Melanie Petit.jpg 1920pxThe following selection of watery show-stoppers includes some of the best-known stars, as well as lesser-known marvels that are equally worth the detour.
A trip to the village of Autoire would not be complete without visiting the waterfall just 2 miles away. Nestled at the top of the U-shaped valley, this 30-metre-high cascade is perfect for picnicking, paddling, and photography, offering a refreshing break from the midday heat.
There are two ways to access the site. The first starts at the bottom via a walking trail from the centre of the village. From the car park, head to the village and follow the signsfor “La Cascade.” You’ll pass the multi-towered castle, walk through the woods, and follow the stream until you reach the waterfall. The last part of the trail is a bit of a scramble, even though it is fairly flat, so it’s. not suitable for people with walking difficulties. Remember to bring sturdy walking shoes and a towel in case you get splashed!
The second route is from a lookout point at the top of the cliffs in the hamlet of Siran. To get there, drive south out of the village. After several kilometers, you’ll see a signpost on the right indicating Siran. Follow this route to a free car park situated about 200 meters from the stunning panoramic views from the clifftop over the village and the waterfall below.
From there, hikers can follow a path that snakes along the top of the cliffs, down towards the ruins of the Château des Anglais and further all the way down to the bottom of the waterfall. The scenery is absolutely gorgeous but be prepared as the walk can be difficult and steep at times.
For more info on the hike, click here: —–LINK——
AUTOIRE la cascade
Cascade Autoire Maxime Seimbille Dronieguy.jpg 1920pxCascade Autoire Maxime Seimbille Dronieguy.jpg 1920px1One of the most beautiful natural sites in the Corrèze, located 12 km northwest of Tulle, Gimel-Les-Cascades is both the name of the stunning waterfalls and the charming village known for its many artisans. These waterfalls consist of three successive cascades from the river Montane, with a total height of 143 meters: the Grand Saut (45 m), the Redole (38 m), and the Queue de Cheval (60 m). The latter plunges into the “inferno chasm.”
Cascade De Gimel © Dan Courtice Corrèze Tourisme
Img 0354.jpg 1920pxNumerous marked paths run alongside the waterfalls in the Parc Vuillier, named after the painter Gaston Vuillier who designed it between 1893 and 1899. The site is not accessible to people with reduced mobility and you need to be fairly fit. During summer, parents with young children can leave their pushchairs at the ticket office, and dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.
Locally known as “Tahiti,” the Vieyres waterfalls boast an exotic charm all their own. However, reaching this enchanting spot requires some effort! To get there, you’ll need to embark on a picturesque 6 km hike. So, lace up your trainers and get ready for an adventure!
It takes approximately 4 hours round trip to reach, with the trail signposted in yellow. From Lamativie, take the D25 towards “Maury and Vieyres” and park in the designated car park about 2 km from the village.
This part of the Dordogne Valley, one of the first hills of the Massif Central, offers superb walks through wild gorges. Remember, nature is fragile, so take care to preserve it!
01875 Otvd Cc By Ncmalika Turin Vallee De La Dordogne.jpg 1920pxNestled in a 700 m long canyon halfway between Saint-Céré and Figeac, this gorgeous trilogy of waterfalls is trimmed with a hiking trail that allows walkers to admire the Bervezou river and the wonderful chain of cascades surrounded by lush greenery. It’s a relatively short path but demands a bit of effort to climb.
The Cascades du Gouffre des Cloches (or the Cave of Bells) lends its name to the legend that the village’s church bells were once thrown into one of the caves by the locals so as to save them from pillaging invaders. So if you find them, let us know!
Corrze - Cascades de MurelLes Cascades de Murel, situated 15 km north-west of Argentat, are formed by three successive waterfalls in the steep, wooded gorges of Franche-Valeine. Here, the water surges through a maze of rocks before flowing calmly into the Dordogne river. Listed as a Natural Zone of Ecological Interest for its rich fauna and flora, this site comprises Cascade de la Prade, La Grande Cascade, and Les Petites Cascades.
To explore these natural marvels, visitors can start their journey from Albussac or Forgès. The trail from Forgès, which is 5 kilometers long, is particularly suitable for families and those preferring a less strenuous walk. It leads through stunning, unspoiled countryside to the final waterfall.
Access to the waterfalls is facilitated by a free car park just a 5-minute walk away, with two footpaths leading directly to the cascades.
Dsc 3178.jpg 1920pxThe Coiroux waterfall can be found in Aubazine, a village situated 14 km east of Brive-la-Gaillarde. To reach it, take the Monastery Trail from the village abbey, leading to the ruins of the Coyroux women’s monastery. Along this route, explore the historic Barry-bas district, renowned for its beautifully restored old houses and remnants of old mills. This charming woodland path eventually guides visitors to the picturesque Coiroux waterfall.
For additional details about the trail, click here. —-LINK—–
In the heart of a stunning nature reserve, the 30-metre high Cascade de Saut Sali majestically overlooks its lush green valley. Accessible via a marked trail, the waterfall is located on the Pont-Aubert stream. Begin your journey from a small car park above Le Breuil, conveniently situated between Soursac and Mauriac on the D16 road. The trail follows the river and is signposted in yellow, offering a round trip lasting about 90 minutes.It’s suitable for all hiking levels, providing a picturesque experience amid this listed natural site upstream of Barrage de l’Aigle.
Nature Cascade De Murel Albussac©malikaturin 00035
01973 Otvd Cc By Ncmalika Turin Vallee De La Dordogne.jpg 1920pxCanyoning offers an exhilarating adventure for adrenaline junkies and those wanting more action with their views. Jumping into natural rock pools and careening down the river freestyle carried along by the current is a fun way to spend a morning or afternoon. In the heart of the Ségala region, the Cayla stream, originating at an altitude of over 700m, provides ideal terrain for exploring its tumultuous torrents. Its most impressive feature, the Saut-Grand cascade, plunges 15 meters above the scenic village of Latouille-Lentillac, offering a majestic spectacle.
A number of companies organise canyoning trips for adventure seekers eager to discover the gorge’s hidden treasures and aquatic excitement. The excursion typically lasts around 4 hours and is not suitable for children under 10 years old. A minibus transports participants to the starting point and back. Helmets and life jackets are provided.
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