10 Things To Do In Domme, France – Is It Worth Visiting?
From idyllic beaches to stunning landscapes, ancient cities, and charming small villages—southern France encompasses a wide array of beautiful destinations. A standout is Domme, one of the most beautiful villages in France. This preserved medieval village, perched on a hilltop and known for its honey-hued houses, is among the top sights in Dordogne.
While southern France is home to numerous beautiful villages, Domme is particularly worth visiting for its unique acropolis characteristics. This includes a cave hidden under its quaint streets and breathtaking viewpoints of the Dordogne Valley. The village’s fascinating history, evidenced by Templar graffiti on its medieval walls, further underscores Domme’s unique cultural legacy.
What could be more interesting? The discovery extends beyond outside the village of Domme, with a few natural and picturesque historical sites nearby. A leisurely boat journey on the Dordogne River offers a unique pathway to these attractions, adding another layer of fun during your trip.
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Curious to learn more about the unique aspects and attractions of Domme? In this post, I’ll share all the fascinating details I uncovered about Domme, along with tips to enhance your visit. Let’s dive in!
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1. Explore Domme’s Medieval Village — Quaintness Overload!
Being one of France’s most stunning villages, it’s unthinkable to miss out on the medieval core of Domme. A stroll through its streets to absorb its unique charm is an experience that should be prioritized as soon as you get there.
Known as the ‘Acropolis of Périgord,’ Domme is a delight for any traveler!
Take a leisurely walk through its streets lined with houses that seem to have been lifted straight from a medieval film set. The golden hues of their stonework and the unique Lauzes-style roofs, a signature of Périgord, are sights that will captivate you.
In the warmer months of spring and summer, the vines adorning some houses in Domme come alive with flowers. This sight, coupled with the uniform style of the buildings, makes for a view that begs to be photographed!
Need proof? Here are some of the sceneries awaiting you in Domme:
By the way, if the quaint charm of Domme appeals to you, Colmar could be your next destination. This delightful village in Alsace has sparked creativity in people all over the globe.
Strolling around, you’ll find inviting cafes, creperies, and eateries. Some of these, such as Cabanoix et Châtaigne, feature charming courtyards perfect for a meal. They serve delectable French cuisine that will satiate both your visual and gastronomic appetites.
The medieval town of Domme isn’t huge. You should be able to see its best parts in less than half a day. In that duration, you can already eat in a lovely cafe, and take selfies and photographs, and see notable landmarks like:
- Le Moulin du Roy — The mill at the northwest corner of Domme. It is an excellent place to practice photography. Otherwise, you may skip it.
- Église catholique Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption — a 16th century church with honey colored interiors. There are a few biblical scene frescoes you can admire inside. It is one of the buildings in Place de la Halle, the market square of Domme.
- L’Oustal du Périgord /Paul Reclus Museum — another attraction located in Place de la Halle. Come here to see some artifacts depicting the history of Domme and Perigord. Discover the tools the locals used in their livelihood, agriculture, sewing & tapestry industry, and making bread.
Domme’s church certainly has a quaint appeal, but there are other churches in France that you simply must visit. Don’t miss the cathedrals in Reims, the traditional coronation site for French kings, and those in Lyon, Strasbourg, and Paris.
If you’re interested in a guided tour of Domme, consider taking the White Train that departs from Place de la Halle. Tickets can be booked at domme-perigord.com.
The tour lasts for 20 minutes and takes you to various parts of Domme, including the Governor’s house, House of the Mint Drummer, and several gates and viewpoints. Audio guides are available in multiple languages (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German, and Dutch). The small fee for the train tour also includes entry to the museum.
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2. Visit Domme’s Underground Cave — The Hidden Gem.
Earlier, I hinted at a special feature in Domme. Can you guess where it is?
In the residences? Incorrect. The museum? Not quite. Maybe the church? Still no! So, where could it be? It’s right under the village—quite literally. This special feature, a must-visit in Domme, has its entrance situated in the heart of Place de la Halle.
The cave is perhaps one of the attractions in Domme that lends the village its unique character. To me, it provides a fantastic “twist” to the prevalent medieval ambiance in Domme.
The cave in Domme houses spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, colonnades, and translucent draperies. These are million-year-old natural wonders in the making and are sure to leave you awestruck, especially if it’s your first time seeing them.
The path in the cave is well maintained, and a visit should be pleasant and interesting unless you have claustrophobia. Also, the interiors are also well-lighted, so you’ll see the details of each rock formation very well and walk safely.
Typically, the cave tour lasts for 45 minutes and covers 450 meters (approximately 1480 feet) of rock galleries. The path inside the cave leads to an elevator that takes you to scenic viewpoints of the village.
If you have an interest in geography, the tour inside the cave will allow you to discover fascinating aspects of it. The tours are conducted in French, but you’ll be provided with a booklet translated into various languages.
Note: Although it’s pretty spectacular inside, taking photos is prohibited as it will delay the tour. It’s good because it will let you focus on the most essential thing: to enjoy the visit and stay inside the cave.
Also, the temperature averages 13 to 15 degrees Celsius (55 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit) inside the cave. Please bring appropriate clothes when you want to visit Domme Caves.
When I last browsed the official Domme Caves website, the entrance fee was set at 9 EUR for each adult. Tours are organized at intervals of 30 to 45 minutes.
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3. Behold the Lush View of Dordogne from Domme — Scenic and Relaxing
The charm of Domme extends beyond its stunning architecture and hidden gem. Its unique location enhances its appeal.
Nestled on a rocky outcrop, 250 meters above sea level, Domme presents visitors with sweeping views of the surrounding scenery. Curious about these viewing spots? They’re situated in the northern section of Domme, precisely where you’ll end up after the elevator journey from the caves.
If you find yourself in Place de la Halle, look for the path that starts at the Église catholique Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. This path will guide you to a quaint park where you’ll find the viewing deck. From this vantage point in Domme, you’ll be treated to a sweeping view of the Dordogne valley and an awe-inspiring vista of the Dordogne River.
The views aren’t as beautiful as the ones you’ll find in Chamonix (French Alps), Moustiers Sainte Marie (Verdon National Park), or Eze (French Riviera). But they can be lovely and romantic, especially during the golden hour and sunset.
The viewing deck in Domme, near the Église catholique Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, overlooking the Dordogne valley can get crowded with tourists during peak times. If you prefer a quieter spot with the same view, consider heading to the public garden on the west side of the village. It’s just a 5-minute walk from Église catholique Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption to Domme’s public garden.
This spot isn’t well-known among most tourists, so you’ll thank me for this!
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4. Uncover the Secrets of Domme — the Intriguing History
Before you marvel at the beautiful houses, explore the cave, and take in the breathtaking views of the Dordogne valley, you’ll first encounter Domme’s gates and walls. This is because Domme is a bastide, a fortified town and the most straightforward way to enter this medieval village is through its gates.
When you visit Domme, you may notice that the streets intersect at right angles. This layout is a design characteristic of a medieval town that adheres to the strict architectural principles of a bastide.
Did you know? Domme was constructed in the late 13th century by King Philippe the Bold, who sought to protect French territory during his reign. This historical context explains why Domme was built on a hilltop overlooking the Dordogne valley.
The viewing decks, from which you can see the panorama of the Dordogne valley, were actually the bastions of the rampart of the bastide. You can almost picture medieval guards scanning for approaching enemies from these vantage points!
Domme’s ramparts and bastion, along with the impressive gates, are the primary defensive features of the bastide of Domme. They must have kept the residents of Domme safe from invaders. Fascinatingly, even the cave in the middle of Domme’s medieval village served as a protective feature for the bastide! Believe it or not, the residents took refuge in the cave when Domme was attacked.
However, the imposing gates of Domme also served different purposes in the past. Not only were they places where guards stood their posts to keep enemies out of the village, but they also served as a prison for Templar Knights.
The Templar Knights, in simple terms, were a religious military order established during the era of the Crusades. Initially, their ideas were met with criticism, but they soon gained acceptance and thrived for centuries. In their prison gate tower in Domme, these Templar Knights left behind several intriguing pieces of graffiti that are a must-see.
The various graffiti left by these Templar Knights in the towers are enigmatic, and their exact meanings remain unknown. However, based on the images depicted, they appear to be symbols representing elements and figures from Christendom.
For instance, the carvings at the entrance of the gate tower form a large cross surrounded by four smaller crosses. This is believed to represent the Crusader or Jerusalem Cross, an emblem worn on the armor of knights during the First Crusade.
Did you know? A significant turn of events occurred in the realm of Christendom during the 14th century. This was when the papacy relocated to Avignon, leading to the construction of the largest Gothic Palace in Europe.
Nevertheless, these carvings stand as a testament to the dedication and fervor of the imprisoned Templar Knights towards their order, Christianity, and God. Come and witness these mysteries!
Today, three gate towers of Domme remain preserved. You can find the Templar Knights’ graffiti in La Porte des Tours, the main entrance of Domme located on the eastern wall. This is where you’ll enter if you arrive by bus or if you park your car in P1. If you wish to enter La Porte des Tours and see the graffiti, you can inquire at the tourism office at Place de la Halle.
You can find the office’s opening hours on their official website.
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5. Have Fun in Domme — the Great Outdoors in Dordogne
The stunning views start right at Domme’s viewing decks, offering a bird’s eye view of the Dordogne River. But there’s a lot more to see along the Dordogne River! If leisurely sightseeing is your thing, then the Dordogne River is just the spot for you. Personally, I find this to be the most enjoyable must-do activity in Domme (or in Dordogne).
As you journey along the Dordogne River, you’ll come across peaceful places like dense forests, duck farms, and walnut orchards. You’ll also get to see additional hilltop castles and quaint villages with honey-colored buildings!
So, what’s the most exciting part? It’s the kayaking or canoeing on the Dordogne River. The Dordogne River is a popular spot for these water activities, thanks to its gentle current. The smooth flow of the water allows people to unwind and take in the scenery as they paddle along.
Concerned because you don’t have a kayak or canoe? There’s no need to worry! Canoe and kayak rental services are available along the river banks near various tourist attractions. Domme is one such attraction, and you’ll find several rental services in the port area close to the bridge.
Keep in mind that the port area is tucked between Domme and Cénac-et-Saint-Julien. The businesses that rent out canoes and kayaks usually refer to their base station in the port as ‘Cénac-et-Saint-Julien’ rather than ‘Domme.’
Once you get your kayak or canoe and safety equipment from the rental services, you’re ready to start your adventure on the Dordogne River. The cost depends on how far you want to travel on the river. They often refer to these options as ‘routes,’ each with different starting and ending points.
If you have the opportunity, I recommend the path that starts in Domme/Cénac-et-Saint-Julien and ends in Beynac. Beynac is yet another picturesque French village that I’m sure you’ll find delightful! The journey usually takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
As you journey from Domme to Beynac along the Dordogne River, you’ll catch sight of the picturesque village of La Roque Gageac and its Château de la Malartrie, Château de Castelnaud, Château de Fayrac, and Château de Beynac. You’ll pass under three bridges during the trip. To return to Domme, you can arrange for a return trip via shuttle or bus with the canoe or kayak rental service.
Canoé Randonnée Dordogne is a top-rated canoe and kayak rental service worth considering. If you prefer a fully assisted visit to Domme and Beynac (eliminating the need for planning and booking), you might want to check out this tour. It includes a walking tour in Domme and Beynac, with a boat ride in between.
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6. Visit Nearby Castles — Marvel at Dordogne’s Medieval Flair
As we’ve touched on before, there are several castles near Domme that visitors can admire while kayaking or canoeing on the Dordogne River. If, like me, you’re captivated by all things medieval, then a visit to these castles is a must-do activity during your trip to Domme.
Of the four castles I mentioned earlier, I highly recommend visiting Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and Château de Beynac.
These two castles are conveniently close to Domme. However, you might want to think about your transportation options when deciding which castle to visit:
- If you’re without a car, reaching Château de Beynac from Domme is not only easier but also more enjoyable. You can rent a kayak or canoe and paddle your way to Beynac to visit the castle.
- On the other hand, getting to Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle from Domme quickly is only possible if you have a private car. Alternatively, you can hike to this castle from Domme, which will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
In my opinion, it’s perfectly fine if you choose to visit only one of the castles, as they share many similarities in terms of their appearance. Both castles were built in the 12th century and feature almost identical architecture. Choosing either one would still make for a fantastic experience!
Additionally, both castles are perched on a hilltop with views overlooking the Dordogne valley. Whether you opt for Château de Beynac or Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, you’re guaranteed to enjoy stunning views. The main differences lie in the exhibits housed within these castles and the programs offered during each castle tour.
If your interest lies in exploring an important historical site, Beynac Castle should be your choice. This notable location in Dordogne has been a silent spectator to key happenings during the Hundred Years’ War. A visit here will offer insights into the life of Richard I the Lion Heart and the lords of Beynac.
Just to share a thought, Beynac brings Rocamadour to mind for me. These two places bear a striking resemblance to each other. Both boast charming villages and castles that are a delight to explore. However, there’s something extra special about Rocamadour.
You can arrange your visit to Beynac Castle via its official website, where all the necessary visitor information is provided.
If you have a keen interest in exploring various types of medieval weaponry, then Château de Castelnaud is your destination. It showcases a wide array of exhibits, from swords and crossbows to trebuchets!
Depending on the activities planned by the staff for the castle’s visitors, you might get to see various demonstrations of practices from the Middle Ages during your visit. These could include blacksmiths crafting new weapons or a soldier operating a trebuchet.
If you’re interested in learning more or booking a visit to Château de Castelnaud, you can visit their official website. I recommend taking part in a guided tour so you can witness a siege lesson during your visit. It’s truly an amazing experience.
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7. Visit More Beautiful Villages — Wanderlust Satisfied!
Besides the castles dotting the Dordogne River, exploring the villages near Domme is also a must! These villages, like Domme, are charming and picturesque. They’re sure to transform your wanderlust into ‘wanderlove!’
You’ll absolutely enjoy exploring these places, whether on foot, by boat, kayak, or canoe. However, I suggest stepping off the water and wandering through the villages on foot to fully appreciate their beauty.
Naturally, you won’t be able to appreciate all the intricate details of these villages from your boat, kayak, or canoe. Plus, if you’re hoping to take photos or selfies, that could prove quite challenging while you’re on the water! You’ll likely be more focused on maintaining balance and steering the boat.
If you’re comfortable with driving, renting a car, or hiring a driver, I recommend doing so. It will offer you much more flexibility with your itinerary (I’ve found public transport around Domme to be a bit tricky). More importantly, it will give you ample time to explore Domme and the surrounding villages.
I suggest this because there are certain times of the day when it’s best to be in specific spots in these villages. For instance, the viewpoint in Beynac, just a 5-minute walk from the castle, is a must-visit during sunset or the golden hour!
Why? Because that spot is a gem!
swipe the 360° image below to see more views
From this vantage point in Beynac, you can witness the Dordogne River gracefully flowing under the Pont de Fayrac bridge, set against the scenic hills of Dordogne. You can also catch a glimpse of the impressive Beynac Castle from this same location, offering a double dose of visual delight. The spectacle at sunset is nothing short of magical.
In addition to Beynac, La Roque-Gageac is another village that’s worth a visit from Domme. It’s closer than Domme, and in my opinion, it’s even more charming and picturesque than Beynac. This charm is largely due to its location at the base of a towering cliff. The honey-hued houses in La Roque-Gageac blend seamlessly with the cliff face, creating a truly enchanting sight!
Here are some of the beautiful scenes you may find in La Roque-Gageac:
Also, how La Roque-Gageac was architectured and built seems to fit its location perfectly.
When you find yourself in La Roque-Gageac, be sure to take in the view of Château de la Malartrie from a particular spot (44.8256, 1.1826) near the ramp. The scene is simply too captivating not to capture on camera! The combination of the castle, houses, and river creates a picturesque tableau.
During the middle of the day, you’ll often see kayaks and canoes docked near the ramp. If you’re planning to take photographs, I suggest arriving early in the morning when there are fewer tourists around, or alternatively, at sunset.
Finally, much like Domme and Beynac, La Roque-Gageac also boasts a panoramic view of the Dordogne Valley. This can be found at Fort de La Roque-Gageac, a unique structure nestled above the village and hewn directly into the cliff face.
Access to Fort de La Roque-Gageac is via a steep staircase that starts at the top part of the village. From this vantage point, you’ll get a different perspective of the Dordogne valley and its meandering river. Presently, supports have been installed in the fort to keep it from falling apart. These supports are adorned with historical snippets that tell the story of La Roque-Gageac and Dordogne.
Fancy a visit? All the details you need can be found on the official page of the fort.
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8. Hop on a Hot Air Balloon — Fly Over Domme and Dordogne
We’ve previously explored various locations offering stunning views of the Dordogne valley. Quite impressive, aren’t they? But in Dordogne, these viewpoints aren’t the only way to appreciate the valley’s beauty. There’s another method that doesn’t even require you to set foot in Dordogne – by taking to the skies!
There are a number of companies in Domme that provide thrilling aerial tourism activities. These include hot air balloon rides, free-fall experiences, and even flights on ULM (Ultra Light Motorized) aircraft!
While these activities might be a bit pricey, they could be just the thing if you’re looking for a memorable experience and believe in living life to the fullest. These unique experiences or activities in Domme could be your opportunity to do just that.
One of the must-do aerial activities in Domme, which I believe is a bucket list-worthy experience, is a hot air balloon ride. This adventure is offered by Montgolfiere du Perigord.
A hot air balloon ride could be a fantastic way to celebrate a birthday or anniversary. You could even book a private flight for an intimate moment suspended above castles, villages, the winding Dordogne river, and occasionally, a sea of clouds. It promises to be an utterly enchanting experience! Rest assured, you won’t be left to navigate the skies alone — a skilled pilot will handle all the flying.
If you’re looking to take your sightseeing adventure in Domme and Dordogne to new heights, you should definitely try the ULM flight. This exhilarating activity is offered by Air Chateaux.
With an Air Chateaux ULM flight, you’ll get to explore Domme and some of the best attractions in Dordogne from the sky. You and the pilot will soar above and circle around the castles, offering you a unique perspective of these landmarks. Château de Castelnaud, Château de Fayrac, and Château de Beynac are just a few of the places included in the ULM flight itinerary.
If you wish, the pilot can even take you over Domme to admire its bastide architecture from above. ULM flights typically last between 15 to 60 minutes and cover 6 to 11 attractions, depending on the package you choose. You can find out more about Air Chateaux and its services on their official website.
Lastly, if you’re a thrill-seeker looking for extreme adventures, Domme has something in store for you! Chute Libre Dordogne offers an exhilarating free-fall experience from the sky.
They’ll take you up to an altitude of 3500 meters (11482 feet), a journey that should take around 20 minutes and offers an increasingly expansive view of Dordogne. Once the plane reaches the right height, a tandem jump commences.
You’ll free-fall at a speed of 200 km/h for about 40 seconds. Then, the parachute deploys and you’ll float in the air for another 3 to 7 seconds. This is one experience you’re sure to remember, especially with a graduation ceremony to cap off the jump.
Here’s the website of Chute Libre Dordogne if you want to learn more.
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9. Water Gardens of Carsac — Be Nature-Soaked
For those who have a deep appreciation for nature, there’s another destination in Dordogne that you might enjoy apart from the river. This place is known as the Water Gardens of Carsac, a mere 20-minute drive from Domme.
Essentially, the Water Gardens of Carsac is a verdant 3-hectare garden teeming with stunning water lilies, lotuses, and a variety of tropical aquatic plants native to Asia and America. Also referred to as Les Jardins D’eau, it’s recognized as one of the notable gardens of the Perigord.
As you wander through the Water Gardens of Carsac, you’ll discover more than 30 different lotus species and 55 kinds of water lilies. Astonishingly, some plants reach human height!
The unique feature of the Water Gardens of Carsac is the 500-meter (1640-feet) wooden footbridges that form a maze. They meander through the garden’s pools, streams, and waterfalls where these colorful aquatic plants thrive.
In addition to the flora, you might spot frogs perched atop the lilies as you meander through the wooden maze. They’re quite adorable when they’re snoozing, but don’t be surprised if they start hopping about!
You’ll also encounter a collection of koi fish in the garden. If you’re planning to visit with children, they’ll enjoy the interactive water jets in the garden, which can be controlled via the garden’s mobile application.
If you have a passion for photography, the Water Gardens of Carsac offer a multitude of picturesque scenes, especially when the flowers are in full bloom. The tranquil and undisturbed water of the pond reflects the garden’s plants, bridges, and more, providing ideal subjects for your photographs!
The magic unfolds in the Water Gardens of Carsac from May to September, coinciding with the flowering season of the aquatic plants and the opening days of the garden. More details can be found on the official website of the Water Gardens of Carsac.
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10. Les Jardin de Marqueyssac — Art and Nature Combined
Last on our list, but certainly not least, is the breathtaking Marqueyssac Gardens or Les Jardin de Marqueyssac – arguably the most beautiful garden in Dordogne.
Located a mere 15-minute drive from Domme, just beyond La Roque-Gageac, Les Jardin de Marqueyssac showcases one of France’s most impressive gardening feats. The garden boasts 150,000 hand-pruned boxwoods that are sure to leave you in awe as you explore some of its 6-kilometer (roughly 3.7-mile) garden trails.
The meticulously pruned boxwoods come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some are literally shaped like boxes and rectangles, while others take on more abstract forms, resembling organized clusters of green blobs. They’re truly a sight to behold.
When I first discovered this garden, I was left speechless. I believe no words can adequately capture or do justice to the breathtaking beauty of the scenery in Les Jardin de Marqueyssac.
Les Jardin de Marqueyssac is also home to peacocks, and you’ll have the chance to encounter them as you wander around.
If you’re lucky, you might even witness a peacock unfurling its magnificent tail — simply, a spectacular sight. Situated on a rocky outcrop, the garden offers panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley. There’s even a viewpoint perfect for selfies, with the Beynac Castle serving as a stunning backdrop.
swipe the 360° image below to see more views
Also, Les Jardin de Marqueyssac serves as a perfect lookout for La Roque-Gageac! However, the views and boxwoods are just the beginning – there’s a multitude of lovely sights to see. You’ll come across quaint Perigord-style huts and treehouses, along with a chapel and a castle.
For adventure enthusiasts, there’s the garden’s 200-meter-long Via Ferrata, perched 100 meters off the ground. All required safety equipment will be provided. It’s undoubtedly a distinctive and heart-pounding method to take in the Dordogne valley.
We’ve discussed many places in Domme and Dordogne where you can enjoy the sunset, but Les Jardin de Marqueyssac is another location worth considering. When the sun descends towards the horizon, it bathes the boxwoods in the garden in a dramatic light that highlights their shapes and edges.
You can observe this enchanting scene at the bastion, an area of Les Jardin de Marqueyssac situated near the castle.
During the summer, you might want to linger in Les Jardin de Marqueyssac until nightfall after watching the sunset. The garden hosts enchanting candlelight evenings that transform the place into a scene straight out of a fairytale – it’s a sight you mustn’t miss!
If you’re interested in visiting the garden, you can find practical information such as the latest admission fee and opening hours on the official website of Les Jardin de Marqueyssac.
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Other Beautiful Places Like Domme
If you’re still planning your trip and Domme doesn’t seem to be the right fit for you, don’t worry. There are numerous other destinations you can consider as alternatives to Domme, and I’m here to provide some suggestions.
The places I will suggest could serve as excellent alternatives to Domme if you are still looking for a charming destination in south of France. Like Domme, they also offer a combination of picturesque landscapes and thrilling attractions.
If you’re interested in villages that resemble Domme — a medieval village nestled on a hill — then Gordes, Eze, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are worth exploring. These villages are not only charming but also offer artistic delights from uniquely shaped calade to art galleries set in rustic buildings.
For those interested in historical or religious sites, Carcassonne, Rocamadour, and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie are excellent choices. These villages boast features ranging from double-layered medieval fortifications to sanctuaries visited by monarchs and historical towpaths.
Lastly, if you’re searching for enchanting destinations near stunning locations like the Alps, a pink sea or Europe’s largest gorge, consider visiting Chamonix, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and Aigues-Mortes.
For a summary of each village mentioned, please refer to my post about the 10 beautiful villages in the south of France.
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How To Spend Time in Domme (Visiting Tips)
With its awe-inspiring scenery and thrilling activities, Domme and Dordogne are certainly places to add to your travel list. If you’re thinking of making this village your next stop, I can provide some suggestions on how to enjoy your stay in this charming region.
First off, it’s important to note that not all times of the year are ideal for visiting Domme. Given that most of the attractions in Domme are outdoors, it’s generally better to plan your visit during the summer months and less rainy periods like May and June. This is when boat rides and canoe rental services are up and running.
A two-day trip to Domme should let you see the highlights, but if you’re keen on some adventurous outdoor experiences, consider extending your visit to three days. Also, considering Domme’s remote location, it’s practical to plan for a longer stay in the village when you visit. This ensures that your effort to get there would pay you back a worthwhile trip.
Here’s another crucial detail you should know:
Spending three days in Domme and exploring its nearby attractions is fairly straightforward. The attractions are close to the village, and you can get to other locations like Beynac and La Roque-Gageac in anywhere from a few minutes to less than an hour, depending on your mode of transportation.
However, keep in mind that Domme and Dordogne (in general) are rural areas, so public transportation isn’t the most convenient. For instance, the bus service isn’t very frequent. If you miss a bus, you might have to wait an hour or more for the next one. To get around the region efficiently and on your own schedule, you’ll need to rent a car, or perhaps a bike. For the most hassle-free experience, I recommend renting a car and hiring a driver.
Also, getting to Domme by car is much easier than public transportation. For more information on how to get around Domme and Dordogne, you might find these links useful: Dordogne Bus Service, Dordogne Water Sports, Boat Trips, Bike Hire, and Car Hire.
Below you can see a sample itinerary of how you can spend 1 to 3 days in Domme. If you want to follow this itinerary, let Domme be your home base. If you need a place to stay, you can use this link to find a hotel or accommodation in Domme. There you can sort the hotels based on their prices and ratings. It also has a map interface to help you find the hotel best for you regarding the location.
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First day (Domme proper)
- Morning — Get to Domme by car then tour the village. After that, get a boat ride to Beynac-et-Cazenac.
- Afternoon — Tour the village Beynac-et-Cazenac and Beynac Castle. Behold the viewpoint!
- Note: Don’t forget to arrange a shuttle to get back to Domme where you parked your car.
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Second day (near Domme)
- Morning — From your hotel in Domme, drive to La Roque-Gageac and explore the village.
- Afternoon until night — Ride a kayak and see the La Roque-Gageac from the river. Proceed to Les Jardin de Marqueyssac and have a romantic/memorable time in the garden.
- Third day (outdoor fun) — day for adventure (aerial tourism activities) or Château de Castelnaud or Water Gardens of Carsac.
Some sights and activities in Domme/Dordogne can be easily explored or experienced through a tour. For instance, the first day in the itinerary I provided is part of an organized tour (click here for more details). I recommend considering this option if you need some guidance or if you’re short on time to plan or book activities like boat rides.
See more different tours to Domme and Dordogne here.
That would be all for now! Thank you for reading! 🙂 Have a nice trip to France.
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