Plage de la Bourgnette à LacavePlage de la Bourgnette à Lacave
©Plage de la Bourgnette à Lacave|Cyril Novello - Lot Tourisme

WILD BEACHES

Little slices of paradise

As the water levels drop in summer, the Dordogne River reveals a fantastic array of wild beaches where holiday-goers can enjoy a refreshing break. These pebble or grass beaches are ideal for setting up camp for the day and are perfect for lazy afternoons in the sun. Looking for more options? Explore all the best spots for swimming and beaches in the Dordogne Valley.

A little guide to the best swimming spots

Many flock to France’s southern coast in summer, but there are also tons of uncrowded beaches and fresh rivers waiting to be discovered in the Dordogne Valley. For those who find sun loungers loathsome and beach bars boring, these natural spots are a welcome alternative to the busy Mediterranean coast and often provide no more than a castle and limestone cliff for company (and perhaps the odd canoeist).

What could be more invigorating than diving into the cool, crystal-clear waters of the Dordogne river on a warm summer’s day? The region’s natural beaches consistently provide the ideal setting for a delightful picnic or an afternoon swim (plus, you’re always within easy reach of a fantastic campsite, ancient castle, or quaint café terrace). These little slices of paradise are tucked-away all along the Dordogne river. It’s of course easier for canoeists to find them but many are accessible by road.

Here are a few ideas about where to throw down your towel this summer with some of our top picks. We divided the swimming options in three areas so you don’t have to travel too far to find your perfect spot.

Please note that the following beaches are NOT supervised and swimming is at your own risk. Be careful as rivers can be dangerous and currents may be strong.

The Dordogne river basin is located in a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve and the following beaches have been selected for their wild beauty. Please respect nature and the environment by leaving no trace of your visit.

THE LOWER VALLEY: Around Bergerac

Plage du Bac de Sors in Alles-sur-Dordogne

Located on the left bank opposite the village of Limeuil, this beach is a favourite amongst the locals. It’s one of the area’s top spots but it’s small, so it gets crowded quickly in summer. You can chill and sunbathe in the sun or shade on a grassy mound overlooking the river and dramatic limestone cliffs. Plus, there’s plenty of shaded parking right next to the beach.

Plage de Limeuil

Located just beneath the quaint medieval town of Limeuil, one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, this is an ideal swimming spot with its expansive shallow waters.

Plage de Vicq in Le Buisson-de-Cadouin

Situated conveniently between Bergerac and Sarlat, this spot offers easy access and a spacious grassy beach—perfect for picnics or just lounging around. The access is direct from the roadside via the D51E towards Périgueux.

THE CENTRAL VALLEY: From La Roque-Gageac to Carennac

Plage de La Roque-Gageac

The picturesque village of La Roque-Gageac needs no introduction. Just 12km from Sarlat, it is one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, and a popular summer destination. You can take gabare boat rides from there and also go swimming. Opposite the main street, on the other side of the Dordogne, you can relax on a small beach with amazing view over the cliffs.

Plage de Caudon in Vitrac

Not only is Vitrac a pretty medieval village, it also boasts a long sandy beach and comes complete with pretty islands, shady trees and a Gibraltar-shaped rock. After a quick photo session by the Château de Montfort, the kids can build sandcastles whilst you cavort in the shallows. A 5* campsite and canoe rental can be found nearby.

Plage du Rocher de la Cave

Situated in the first loop of the Cingle de Monfort, this is a large beach several hundred metres long. Upstream, you can choose to drift in the current and join deeper, calmer waters downstream. Car park and toilets available on site. For refreshments head to the bar at the Rocher de la Cavecampsite.

Plage de Carsac-Aillac

A few kilometres from the village of Carsac-Aillac, head toward the route de La Rivière. You’ll discover a peaceful, little-frequented beach. With plenty of parking and a picnic area, with lovely views of the cliffs and shallow waters, you can enjoy a peaceful snooze in the heart of nature.

Plage de Lanzac

Lanzac is a haven for canoeists, picnickers, and beachgoers, featuring a tranquil river stretch and a charming beach with stunning views of Château de Lanzac. Access is easy for vehicles with a road leading directly to the beach. On your way out, make a stop at the Aire du Bélvedère to get an aerial view of this picturesque stretch of the valley.

Plage de Meyraguet

Situated between Lacave and Pinsac, Meyraguet boasts a sweeping pebble beach and a fantastically sunny location to top up your tan in the afternoon. Jammed between cliff-top castles, prehistoric caves and scenic marked trails, this little piece of paradise is the ideal place to wind down between two visits or rest your tootsies after a long hike.

Plage de Creysse

Just a stone’s throw from Martel, the serene village of Creysse offers a laid-back vibe. Follow the charming Cacrey stream to where it meets the Dordogne, and you’ll find a sprawling pebble beach that’s simply magical in the late afternoon sun’s warm golden hues. Grab a bite or a drink at the campsite’s bar or in the quaint auberge by the stream in the village centre. After soaking up the sun, wander through the village to explore its rich heritage on the royal pilgrimage route to Rocamadour. You can also catch a ride across the river on the seasonal boat service that also accommodates bikes.

Plage du Vieux Chêne in Montvalent

Lounge on the grass or picnic by the water. Plus, with the on-site guinguette ‘Le Vieux Chêne’ featuring a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool, it’s the perfect spot to grab a beer, treat yourself to an ice cream, or enjoy a meal on the terrace with views of the Dordogne.

Make sure to also check out:

La plage in Carlux, La plage du Pont in Saint Julien de Lampon, La plage de la Malartrie, La plage de Fayrac and La plage de Castelnaud.

THE UPPER VALLEY: Up in the Corrèze

Magali plage in Liourdres

Tucked away on the Dordogne in Liourdes, you’ll find Magali Plage, a charming little beach surrounded by woodlands, featuring a guinguette-style restaurant. If hunger strikes, head for a tasty lunch before lounging on the beach for a sunny snooze. Canoe rentals and a campsite close by.1754603283 1530542275.jpg

Plage de Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne

A pretty grassy and sandy beach on the bank opposite beautiful Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. To get there by car, go through Altillac. On foot, a footbridge spans the Dordogne beside the Pénitents chapel. On-site parking and picnic tables.

Plage du Pont de Saillant

Just 20 minutes from Brive, discover Pont de Saillant beach in Voutezac. Right by the bridge, this quaint riverside spot is perfect for dipping your toes and cooling off on the river Vézère !

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