Sarlat France

Day 37 Wednesday 10 June 2026

Wow what a day! Even tho we have previously visited this area in Perigord/Dordogne we managed to experience different things.

Today we returned to La Roque Gageac (2013), we were wowed by Sarlat’s historic centre and had a close look at some dry stone huts.

After our previous experience in 2022 of trying to stop at La Roque Gageac  (a Sunday in a long weekend), we decided an early arrival was in order. So after a quick coffee we were off from Gourdon. Due to wanting to use the service point in Domme we made a deviation that way, which took us on some very narrow roads. Needless to say, we were very happy to get out of there and onto the much larger roads along the Dordogne River. This valley appears to be vastly more popular with the tourists and buses… probably due to the bigger roads! We find a spot in the only motorhome allowed parking area and pay €4/4hours. 

The village is situated at the foot of a towering limestone cliff along the banks of the Dordogne, where there is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, a troglodyte fort and a Romanesque church that dominates the valley. Listed as one the most beautiful villages in France, it is said to be one of the most photogenic in South-West France. Fringed with ocher facades and Lauzé roofs, nearly all of its routes lead us to a magnificent view over the river.

The church

The fort

Interesting having the lower part of the roof using rock rather than tiles

From here we head north to Sarlat. The traffic was terrible but we eventually found a parking spot, forked out €6/5hrs and made our way into the historic centre. We couldn’t believe how many people were here and quickly found out the reason was due to the market.

We were wowed by the charming medieval streets and picturesque squares. Its splendid architectural heritage is impeccably well-preserved and is considered as one of France’s best examples of a 14th century town. It was a delight to stroll through the many alleyways. There were also many shops and restaurants selling local produce.

We eventually chose one and enjoyed a lovely lunch, then explored a little more before leaving.

Only 15mins away, tucked away in the countryside was a little gem, the Cabanes de Breuil. We paid €6pp to visit a group of ancient agricultural buildings on a family farm that are very unusual because they are built entirely - roofs included - from stone. They have been completely restored and now provide a fascinating glimpse of farming life in earlier centuries. We follow the pamphlet and enjoyed our visit here.

The roof before the outer rocks were placed

The family farmhouse on the site

Roof hand laid without props

Then just to end the day the way we started, we yet again drive on single lane roads to our over night spot just 6km away in Marquay. A small village with pleasant and rich historical heritage.

Never seen a stainglass window at the top of the dome

Haven’t seen this before in a cemetery 

60km today