Go on a road trip in the Dordogne with a converted van
La Dordogne The Dordogne is one of those French regions that instantly captivates: lush green valleys, villages ranked among the most beautiful in France, world-famous prehistoric caves, perched castles and authentic gastronomy. Travelling in a converted van in the Dordogne gives you total freedom to stop off by a river, sleep under a starry sky or extend a favourite visit. With its winding roads, natural vistas and numerous suitable parking areas, the Dordogne is the perfect place for a van. road trip nomadic.
Must-see stops on this road trip
Before we hit the road, here's an overview of the must-see places we'll be exploring together:
- The Vézère valley and prehistoric sites
- Villages and landscapes around Sarlat-la-Canéda
- The valley of the Dordogne and its emblematic castles
The Vézère valley and the treasures of prehistory
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Vézère valley is home to some of the largest prehistoric sites in Europe. A must-see region for history lovers, it is home to Lascaux IV, the International Centre of Cave Art, which offers a spectacular reproduction of the frescoes in the famous cave. With a van, you can easily stop off at Montignac and then head off to La Roque Saint-Christophe, an impressive troglodyte site suspended on a cliff face.
The nearby car parks and parking areas allow you to immerse yourself completely in this valley, where you can enjoy walks, cultural visits and breaks by the river. The van is a real advantage here: you can travel at your own pace, far from the imposed routes.
Sarlat-la-Canéda and the most beautiful villages in Périgord Noir
Sarlat is one of the jewels of the Dordogne, famous for its perfectly preserved medieval architecture. Walking along its cobbled streets early in the morning, when the shopkeepers are setting up their stalls, is a unique experience. If you have a van, you can park on the higher ground and drive down into the old town.
From Sarlat, magnificent villages can be reached in just a few minutes:
- La Roque-Gageac, nestled under a cliff and bordered by the Dordogne ;
- Beynac-et-Cazenac, dominated by its monumental castle;
- Domme, perched high above the valley, offers incomparable views.
Le Black Perigord is the ideal playground for a van road trip panoramic routes, gourmet stops, traditional markets and timeless landscapes.
The châteaux of the Dordogne valley
It's hard to visit the Dordogne without taking a trip to meet some of its most famous people. castles ! The Dordogne valley is home to an exceptional concentration of medieval fortresses and Renaissance mansions, some of the most spectacular in the country.
Château de Castelnaud is a must-see, particularly for its museum of warfare in the Middle Ages. Just a few kilometres away, the Château des Milandes, former home of Josephine Baker, has a captivatingly elegant garden. By van, you can easily map out your own itinerary between heritage, nature and historical visits, taking advantage of the many riverside areas for breaks and overnight stays.
FAQ - How to prepare for your road trip in a converted van in the Dordogne
1. Is the Dordogne suitable for a van road trip?
Yes, completely. The département offers numerous car parks, parking areas, campsites and picturesque roads that are perfectly suited to driving a converted van.
2. Can you sleep freely in a van in the Dordogne?
Parking is tolerated in certain areas, but setting up a camp remains prohibited. Dedicated areas and campsites remain the simplest and most practical solution.
3. When is the best time to visit the Dordogne by van?
Spring and autumn are ideal: pleasant weather, quiet roads and magnificent scenery. Summer is also very pleasant, but busier.
4. What villages are not to be missed on a road trip in the Dordogne?
Sarlat, La Roque-Gageac, Domme, Beynac, Castelnaud and Montignac are among the places you must visit.
5. Can you enjoy outdoor activities in the Dordogne?
Absolutely: canoeing, hiking, cave visits, cycling, swimming... it's one of the best adventure areas in the South-West.
6. This road trip is this possible in 7 days?
Yes, all the activities and places mentioned in our article can be planned over the course of a week's road trip.
Go on an adventure with Glénan Concept Cars
The Dordogne is a permanent invitation to escape: unspoilt nature, a unique heritage and charming villages make it the perfect destination for a trip in a converted van.
To enjoy this experience in complete freedom, opt for a HorizonVandiscover our models in our showroom Glénan Concept Cars, your specialist in the converted van in Bordeaux. Our advisors will help you find the ideal vehicle to enjoy a wide range of magnificent road trips in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.