10 Popular Things To Do In Dordogne On Honeymoon

Dordogne is the perfect place if you’re planning a honeymoon tour. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and flavourful cuisine, there are countless things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. From exploring ancient castles to paddling down serene rivers, couples can create lasting memories in this enchanting destination. 

Dordogne is home to charming villages, vibrant local markets, and world-renowned vineyards, providing a diverse range of experiences for honeymooners. This guide will take you through the most romantic and exciting things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon, ensuring your trip is filled with unforgettable moments and cherished experiences.

1. Visit Chateaus

No honeymoon tour is complete without visiting Dordogne’s Castles which hold historic significance and some interesting facts. 

I. Chateau De Castelnaud

Visiting Chateau de Castlenaud is one of the best things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. It is a big, beautiful castle overlooking Castelnaud village. The castle has an exciting history. 

Long ago, during a war, the English and French fought over who would own it. In 1442, the French tried to take it back. You both can see nice views of the Dordogne valley from the castle.

II. Chateau De Beynac

Exploring Chateau de Beynac is one of the best things to do for couples in Dordogne. Built in the 12th century, it is one of the oldest castles that is still in good shape. You might have seen this castle in movies like “ The Visitors 2” and the Joan of Arc film.

III. Chateau Des Milandes Or Josephine Baker Castle

This castle has two names: the Josephine Baker Castle and the Chateau des Milandes(named after the nearby town). It was built in 1489 by a man called Lord Francois de Caumont for his wife. 

Much later, in 1947, a famous performer named Josephine Baker bought the castle. She loved it and lived there with her 12 adopted children from different countries. She called them her “rainbow tribe”. Sadly, Josephine ran out of money and had to leave her beloved home.

Exploring this castle is one of the interesting things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon as you can see some of Josephine’s old show costumes in the castle, including her famous banana skirt. You can also learn about how she helped France during the war. 

IV. Chateau De Commarque

This place is really special. It’s not just a castle, but also the ruins of a small old village. There are even caves where people used to live. 

To get to the castle, you walk for about 10 minutes down a path with trees on both sides —– one of the best things to do for couples in Dordogne that feels like you’re walking back in time!

When you reach the end of the path, you will witness a big, golden-coloured stone castle —- The Chateau de Commarque.

V. Chateau De Hautefort

The Chateau de Hautefort looks like it’s from a storybook. It was even used in a Cinderella movie with Drew Barrymore. The castle is in the north of Dordogne. 

One of the interesting things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon, is to see old furniture from the 17th and 18th centuries. Also, there are beautiful gardens designed by a garden expert named Count de Choulot. The gardens mix French and English styles.

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2. Go Canoeing

One of the fun things to do for couples in Dordogne on honeymoon is to go canoeing and explore the area. You can start your canoe trip at many different places along two rivers: the Dordogne and the Vezere. 

You can choose how far you want to go – from a short 4 km trip to a longer 25 km trip- one of the adventurous things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. 

3. Get Refreshed At the Garden 

The Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac are some of the prettiest gardens in France. The gardens have many paths with 150,000 small bushes called boxwoods. 

As you walk around, you will see amazing views, gardens with rocks, small waterfalls, and green open spaces making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Dordogne for honeymoon. 

There is a special viewing spot 400 feet above the river. From here, you can see the whole valley spread out below you which is one of the best things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon.

4. Ride On A Gabarre 

Taking a boat ride on a “gabarre” is one of the fun things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. A gabarre is a special flat-bottom wooden boat. On the boat, you will see pretty views of the river and the land around it. You will also learn about the area’s history.

5. Try Local Foods

Trying local foods is one of the best things to do in Dordogne for honeymoon. Dordogne is not only famous for castles but also truffles, (it is not the chocolate kind). These are rare, expensive mushrooms that grow underground. 

The other famous food is foie gras, which is made from duck or goose liver. Sampling these varieties is one of the fun things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. 

Suggested Read: 17 Romantic Things To Do In France On Honeymoon

6. Try River Swimming And Paddling 

Swimming in rivers is one of the most romantic things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. You can enjoy a swim or just splash around in the water. Here are two good spots:

• Limeuil:

This pretty village is where two rivers meet. There is a parking lot at the entrance and this is the perfect place to paddle and have some fun.

• Le Coux:

This is one of the off-beaten paths and locals’ favourite. You will be given a lifeguard to swim. 

7. Enjoy Wine Tasting

Wine tasting is one of the fun things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. Around a town called Bergerac, there are lots of vineyards. These places make many delicious wines for you to taste. 

Some wines and vineyards you might want to try are:

• Pecharmant
• Chateau Feely
• Clos les Verdots
• Monbazillac wine

Each of these has its own special taste. You can visit these places to see how they make wine and try some for yourself.

8. Spend Time Cooking 

One of the unique things you must do on your honeymoon in Dordogne is to indulge in cooking with your sweetheart. Learn cooking at Le Chevrefeuille, and have fun while understanding their culture which is one of the most romantic things to do in Dordogne on honeymoon. 

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9. Visit Local Markets 

Try shopping like the locals!  In the Perigord Noir area, you will find great fresh food like bread baked in old-style ovens and strawberries grown nearby which is one of the best things to do in Dordogne for honeymoon. 

Most places to visit in Dordogne for honeymoon include: 

• St Cyprien (Sundays): This quiet town gets busy on Sunday mornings. The main street is filled with stalls selling fruits, vegetables, local foods, clothes, and souvenirs. The market happens all year but gets bigger in summer.
• Le Bugue (Tuesdays):This market has been happening for 700 years! It is always on Tuesdays, as decided by a French king long ago. About 300 sellers set up stalls in the main square and nearby streets.

• Sarlat (Wednesdays and Saturdays):Sarlat’s market is famous in the area. You can buy fresh food, local crafts, clothes, and special products.

10. Stay At Luxurious Hotels 

Staying in luxury hotels with scenic views is one of the top things you must do on your honeymoon in Dordogne. 

Some of the best places to visit in Dordogne for honeymoon: 

• Hotel de Bouilhac in Montignac: The best place if you like stylish, well-designed rooms.
• Les Cordeliers: A best fancy hotel that’s close to the city centre.

Conclusion

Dordogne offers an array of enchanting experiences for honeymooners, from exploring historic castles to sampling local delicacies. 

Dordogne is a blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and romantic activities making it an ideal destination for couples seeking a memorable getaway. Which of the above activities would you try on your honeymoon?

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