The village of Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère Visit Dordogne Valley

Just around the bend...

Situated on a bend of the Vézère river this village, popular with British visitors, is small but perfectly formed.

Its authentic charm, picturesque countryside setting and well-preserved architecture have earned its classification as one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’.

This prestigious label is awarded to exceptionally pretty villages throughout France that are notable for their important historical, architectural and cultural heritage. Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, situated between Montignac and Les-Eyzies, offers all of this in spades.

An idyllic setting

The idyllic setting of the village contains beautiful medieval houses and manors built of yellow stoned walls and the emblematic steep pitched lauze stone roofs which define the uniquely beautiful architecture of the Dordogne.

As you explore the labyrinthine streets you will come across a variety of arts and crafts shops created by local artisans.

Privately owned the Château de Clérans is located in a prominent position in the middle of the village. Although not open to visits, its architectural grandeur can be freely admired from the outside.

A stunning Roman

Be sure to stop off at the stunning Romanesque church. Part of a Benedictine priory founded in the 12th century, it is built on the remains of a Roman villa.

This listed Historic Monument, notable for its elegant square belltower, has some lovely frescoes inside too.

The Manoir de la Salle

The Manoir de la Salle is a stunning 14th century national Historic Monument.

Decorated with both medieval and Renaissance furniture as well as various period pieces it is a magnificent stone building accompanied by lush gardens, including a 300-year-old Giant Cedar of Lebanon tree.

A stone staircase leads to a fortified tower where arrow slits were carved into the stone walls for defence. The impressive oak woodwork of the tower supports a heavy stone roof, a stunning example of Lauze craftsmanship dating back to the 15th century.

Open throughout the year for visits…

Reconnecting with Nature

It just so happens that this majestic village is also set in the most beautifully picturesque of French countryside landscapes.

Down by the river, you can appreciate the view from the water by hiring a canoe and drifting down.

Being close to nature can be a chilled or an adrenaline pumped experience. The possibility of natural thermals at the Côte de Jor launching point geared to perfect paragliding for debutants or enthusiasts.

Nature and history are never far from each other in the Dordogne and in Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère you can find it blends together beautifully.