You are in the heart of the Périgord Noir
Things to do
From Bon Encontre, everything is within easy reach.
Sarlat is a few minutes' walk away, with its cobbled lanes, golden stone façades, food markets and unmistakable way of life.
Then follow your mood: villages full of character, castles, gardens, prehistoric caves, canoe trips down the Dordogne, breathtaking views… here, every detour leads somewhere new.
A few ideas for your days — or half-days, since holidays are also for taking your time:
Sarlat-la-Canéda
The medieval jewel of the Périgord Noir
Sarlat-la-Canéda, a medieval jewel, charms visitors with its cobbled lanes, golden stone mansions and lively squares.
Wander as you please, discover its architectural treasures and give in to the flavours of the market.
♡ Our tip
The Saturday morning market is unmissable, but if you prefer a quieter Sarlat, walk through town late in the day, when the lanes empty and the golden stone takes on a remarkable light.
From the hotel: a 10-minute walk down the Chemin de Cantelauriol to the historic centre.
Lascaux 4
Step into the heart of history
In Montignac, Lascaux 4 offers a singular experience: a complete replica of the original cave, a masterpiece of parietal art more than 17,000 years old.
♡ Our tip
Book tickets online, especially in high season, and come early in the morning to enjoy the site before the crowds.
Rocamadour
A spectacular, spiritual site
Clinging to its cliff, Rocamadour is striking for both its beauty and its history. A place of pilgrimage since the Middle Ages, it invites contemplation, between remarkable heritage, unspoilt nature and breathtaking views over the Alzou valley.
♡ Our tip
Wear good shoes: steep lanes, the sanctuary and the Stations of the Cross await.
From the hotel: about 45 minutes by car.
Gouffre de Padirac
A journey into the depths
At Padirac, set off on an unforgettable underground adventure. After descending 103 metres, board a boat on a mysterious river, among spectacular chambers and thousand-year-old formations.
♡ Our tip
Arrive at opening time or late in the day to avoid the crowds and enjoy the magic of the place.
From the hotel: about 40 minutes by car.
Beynac-et-Cazenac
A village frozen in time
Listed among the most beautiful villages in France, Beynac-et-Cazenac looks down on the Dordogne from its cliff top. Flower-lined lanes, stone houses and a medieval castle: the charm works at every step.
An exceptional panorama and a real immersion in Périgord history.
♡ Our tip
Take the time to get lost in the lanes, then climb to the castle for a sweeping view over the Dordogne valley, best at sunset.
From the hotel: about 20 minutes by car.
La Roque-Gageac
One of the most beautiful villages in France
Set between cliff and river, La Roque-Gageac charms with its unique setting and genuine character.
Its flowered lanes, ochre stone houses and exotic gardens invite you to stroll, facing one of the finest views in the Périgord.
♡ Our tip
Go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the village in peace and see the cliffs bathed in light.
From the hotel: about 20 minutes by car.
Les Jardins de Marqueyssac
A garden balcony above the Dordogne valley
Perched on a rocky spur, the Gardens of Marqueyssac offer a breathtaking panorama over the valley.
Walk among 150,000 hand-clipped box trees, along shaded paths, past viewpoints and charming stone huts.
At nightfall, let yourself be enchanted by the illuminated gardens.
♡ Our tip
Come late in the afternoon for the softer light and, if you can, stay for the evening visit: unforgettable.
From the hotel: about 15 minutes by car.
Canoeing & kayaking
Discover the Périgord from the water
Glide peacefully down the Dordogne and take in the finest landscapes of the Périgord Noir. Along the way, cliffs, listed villages and castles rise above the valley.
An essential outing, open to everyone, and a whole new angle on the region.
♡ Our tip
Suggested route: Beynac → La Roque-Gageac
Start: Beynac-et-Cazenac (Canoës Loisirs base)
Finish: La Roque-Gageac (landing point)
About 8 km — 2 hr 30 to 3 hr of easy paddling.
It is one of the finest stretches of the Dordogne, with exceptional views of the castles of Beynac and Castelnaud, the gardens of Marqueyssac and the village of La Roque-Gageac.
Book a morning departure, especially in summer: the river is calmer and the light is beautiful.
From the hotel: departure points less than 10 minutes by car.
Gabarre river cruise
A traditional, restful cruise
Step aboard an authentic gabarre, the traditional wooden boat of the Dordogne.
♡ Our tip
Start: La Roque-Gageac (Port de la Malatrie)
Finish: Beynac-et-Cazenac
About 9 km — 1 hr 15 to 1 hr 30 one way.
Enjoy uninterrupted views of the castles of La Malatrie, Beynac and Castelnaud. Several departures run through the day.
Book in the morning or late afternoon for soft light and beautiful colours.
Our partner
Les Gabarres de la Dordogne
Gabarre cruise specialists for more than 30 years.
From the hotel: departure point about 10 minutes by car.
Walking and hiking
Explore the Périgord on foot
Nature, views and authenticity.
Discover the unspoilt landscapes of the Périgord Noir on waymarked trails for every level.
Forests, cliffs, rivers, villages of character and exceptional viewpoints await at every step.
An ideal way to recharge and take in the beauty and calm of our region.
♡ Our tip
Our favourite routes: La Roque-Gageac, Domme, the cliffs of Castelnaud, the Marqueyssac trails…
All levels: from easy family walks to more demanding hikes.
Bring good shoes, water and your camera.
Looking for more ideas?
The Dordogne Périgord Tourisme website is full of them.
Dordogne Périgord Tourisme ↗And if you cannot decide… just ask us.