Canoeing and Kayaking

Canoeing in the Dordogne is one of the most popular and enjoyable activities for visitors staying in holiday rentals in Dordogne, and it’s easy to see why. With calm rivers, stunning scenery, and routes suitable for all ages and abilities, canoeing is a perfect family-friendly activity to enjoy during your stay in one of our Dordogne holiday homes.

The Dordogne region is blessed with several beautiful rivers, including the Dordogne River and the Vézère River, both offering unforgettable canoeing experiences. There are many well-established canoe hire companies locally, providing high-quality equipment and well-organised trips so you can relax and enjoy your day on the water. Most rentals include life jackets and waterproof containers for picnics and cameras, making it easy to plan a carefree day out.

One of our favourite canoe trips is along the Vézère River, setting off from Montignac and finishing in the picturesque village of Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère. This scenic route is approximately 12km, allowing plenty of time to explore Montignac before you depart and enjoy a leisurely lunch once you arrive in Saint-Léon. Both villages offer a wonderful selection of cafés and restaurants, making this trip ideal for guests staying in nearby self-catering holiday homes in Dordogne.

The Dordogne River itself is calm and accessible, catering to beginners as well as more experienced paddlers. One of the most popular stretches runs between Domme and Beynac, passing beneath the iconic castles of Castelnaud and Beynac—important historical sites from the Hundred Years’ War. This section of the river is also famous for its appearance in the film Chocolat. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop and relax, including the lovely river beach at Vitrac, which is perfect for a picnic or a refreshing swim.

Canoeing trips are usually available as half-day or full-day excursions, with transport provided to drop you upstream so you can gently paddle back downstream with the current. It’s an easy, relaxing, and memorable way to experience the natural beauty of the region.

At Voilà Villas France, we always recommend canoeing to our guests staying in our holiday rentals in Dordogne. It’s a fantastic way to explore the landscape, create lasting family memories, and see the region from a completely different perspective. We also love seeing our guests’ photos when they return from their river adventures!

If you’re planning a stay in one of our Dordogne holiday homes, be sure to add canoeing to your list of things to do—it’s an unforgettable part of any holiday in South-West France.

"This section of the river is also famous for its appearance in the film Chocolat!"