The "Bordeaux to Dordogne: Castles & Villages Private Tour" offers travelers an immersive experience exploring the rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes of southwestern France. Priced at $1,300.25 for up to four participants, this private tour promises a memorable journey through prehistoric caves, medieval towns, and iconic castles. With multilingual guides and wheelchair accessibility, the tour caters to diverse interests and needs. Whether you’re a history buff or nature lover, this tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the region’s treasures.

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Key Points

A private tour covering the highlights of the Bordeaux to Dordogne region, including prehistoric caves, medieval towns, and historic castles.
Priced at $1,300.25 for up to 4 participants, with an 8-hour duration and flexible pickup locations.
Explore the National Prehistoric Museum and iconic sites like Lascaux Caverns and Grottes de Cougnac.
Discover the UNESCO-listed medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda and its well-preserved architecture.
Visit renowned castles, such as Château de Rocamadour, Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and Château des Milandes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This private tour, titled "Bordeaux to Dordogne: Castles & Villages Private Tour," offers an immersive experience in the picturesque Dordogne region.

Priced from $1,300.25 per group (up to 4 participants), it’s an 8-hour tour available in English, French, Spanish, and German.

This 8-hour tour, priced at $1,300.25 per group (up to 4 participants), is available in English, French, Spanish, and German.

Pickup is provided from hotels or stations in several cities. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include prehistoric caves, medieval towns, and castles like Château de Rocamadour, Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and Château des Milandes.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour takes visitors to Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil, where they can explore prehistoric caves like the Lascaux Caverns and Grottes de Cougnac, as well as the National Prehistoric Museum.

Next, they’ll visit the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, known for its restored stone buildings.

The tour also includes visits to various castles, including the UNESCO-listed Château de Rocamadour, the scenic Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, the well-preserved Château de Beynac, and the former home of Josephine Baker, Château des Milandes.

Plus, guests will see the historic Domme and the beautiful Jardins de Marqueyssac gardens.

Exploring Prehistoric Caves

As visitors begin their journey, they’ll first explore the prehistoric wonders of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil.

They’ll visit the renowned Lascaux Caverns, home to stunning cave paintings dating back over 17,000 years.

Next, they’ll explore the Grottes de Cougnac, a network of underground caves featuring impressive stalactites and stalagmites.

The tour also includes a stop at the National Prehistoric Museum, which showcases an extensive collection of artifacts and provides insights into the region’s rich archaeological history.

These captivating sites offer a glimpse into humanity’s distant past, setting the stage for the tour’s exploration of Dordogne’s castles and villages.

Discovering Medieval Sarlat

After exploring the prehistoric wonders, the tour ventures to the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda.

This UNESCO-listed gem is known for its restored stone buildings and rich history. Visitors wander the charming narrow streets, admiring the 15th and 16th-century architecture.

Key sights include the Gothic Sarlat Cathedral and the bustling market square. The tour guide provides insights into Sarlat’s past as a center of trade and commerce.

Guests have time to explore the town’s boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, sampling local delicacies.

With its well-preserved medieval character, Sarlat offers a glimpse into France’s storied past.

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Touring Historic Castles

Leaving the charming streets of Sarlat, the tour next explores several historic castles in the Dordogne region.

At the Château de Rocamadour, a UNESCO site, the group marvels at the sanctuary’s impressive architecture.

The group marvels at the impressive architecture of the Château de Rocamadour, a UNESCO-protected sanctuary.

The Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle offers stunning landscape views, while the well-preserved Château de Beynac holds historical significance.

Finally, the tour visits the Château des Milandes, the former home of entertainer Josephine Baker.

Throughout, the guide provides insights into the castles’ histories and encourages guests to capture memorable photos.

These impressive fortresses showcase the region’s rich medieval heritage.

Visiting Domme and Jardins De Marqueyssac

From Château des Milandes, the tour continues to the bastide village of Domme, a historically significant town with ties to the Knights Templar.

Visitors can explore:

The scenic vantage points, including the Belvedere, offering panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley.
The remnants of the ancient city walls and fortifications that once protected the town.
The charming narrow streets lined with medieval architecture and local shops and cafes.

After Domme, the tour proceeds to the Jardins de Marqueyssac, renowned for their beautiful gardens and breathtaking overlooks of the Dordogne River.

Customizing the Tour Experience

The private nature of this tour allows visitors to customize their experience based on personal interests and preferences.

The tour includes options for breaks, photo stops, sightseeing, shopping, and regional food tasting. This flexibility enables travelers to enjoy the destinations that appeal to them most.

The multilingual driver/guide is skilled at tailoring the itinerary to accommodate individual needs and requests. With this personalized approach, guests can create an unforgettable journey that aligns with their unique travel goals and expectations.

The tour’s customization is a key highlight that sets it apart from larger group experiences.

Customer Feedback and Important Information

Based on the overwhelmingly positive user reviews, the tour has earned an impressive overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Reviewers praised the tour guide, Christian, for his exceptional storytelling and friendly demeanor. The recommended lunch stop in Sarlat was also a highlight.

While the majority of feedback was glowing, some customers expressed concerns about receiving excessive emails from the service provider.

To prepare for the tour, travelers are advised to wear comfortable hiking shoes.

The tour includes private transportation, multilingual driver/guide, and admission fees for castles and museums.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Have Flexibility in the Departure Time?

Yes, the tour offers flexibility in departure time. The private nature of the tour allows the schedule to be customized based on the group’s preferences and availability.

How Much Free Time Is Provided at Each Site?

The tour provides ample free time at each site, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The duration of stops can be customized based on individual interests and preferences.

Are Any Food Tastings or Meals Included in the Tour?

The tour includes opportunities for regional food tasting, but no full meals are provided. Guests can take breaks for lunch and explore local dining options at their own expense during the scheduled stops along the itinerary.

Can We Request a Specific Type of Vehicle for Transportation?

Yes, you can request a specific type of vehicle for transportation. The tour includes electric car transport, so you can inquire about the available options to suit your preferences.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

Yes, there’s a discount for booking the tour in advance. The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour for a full refund, encouraging early bookings.

The Sum Up

The "Bordeaux to Dordogne: Castles & Villages Private Tour" offers an immersive exploration of southwestern France’s captivating landscapes and historical treasures. With visits to prehistoric caves, medieval towns, and iconic castles, the tour provides a comprehensive look at the region’s rich cultural heritage. Customizable to suit individual preferences, this private excursion promises an unforgettable experience for up to four participants amid the breathtaking scenery of the Dordogne.