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.