Canoeing and Kayaking

Canoeing in the Dordogne region is supremely popular and is something that all the family can enjoy.

We have a choice of great rivers to choose from in our area, and a range of canoe hire companies who provide well organised trips and quality equipment so the whole family can enjoy a day on the river together.

Our favourite trip sets off on the Vézère river from Montignac to our favourite Saint-Leon-Sur-Vézère, it's approximately 12km so there's always time to explore beautiful Montignac and perhaps have a bite of lunch once you get to Saint Leon. You will find a range of nice restaurants and cafe's in both villages.

The Dordogne River is calm enough to cater for most levels of ability. The stretch between Domme and Beynac is very popular, it passes-by the castles at Castelnaud and Beynac - both highly significant outposts during the 100 years war, and also part of the film set of popular film 'Chocolat'. Along the river bank you will find plenty of opportunities to stop however there is a handy river beach at Vitrac which is an excellent place for a rest and perhaps enjoy a picnic!

You will find that most canoes are hired along with the necessary equipment such as life-jackets and a large plastic tub to keep your picnic and camera dry! For your ease and enjoyment you are usually dropped upstream, so you can canoe downstream with the flow of the river. All-in-all canoeing in the Dordogne is a very enjoyable activity to try, we recommend and encourage all of our guests to give it a go, and also love to see their photographs on their return!

There are many independent rental and tour companies to choose from for varying rental periods, usually they are half and full day trips.

"Our favourite trip sets off on the Vézère river from Montignac to Saint-Leon-Sur-Vézère, it's approximately 12km so there's always time to explore beautiful Montignac and perhaps have a bite of lunch once you get to Saint Leon."