Go on an adventure with your dog in the Dordogne Valley

Swimming makes you hungry, right? I know someone who is already hungry… Musher is a real foodie and she’s not the only one! On vacation, one of my favorite activities is discovering the local gastronomy. And that’s good because in order to obtain the Destination QUALIDOG label, Mélanie and her colleagues also had the great idea of ​​identifying local producers who welcome dogs and their families for a gourmet break. 

Fancy a tasting? La Gourmande – Foie Gras Jacquin is a breeder/producer who will welcome you for a free tasting of farm products! Les Goûts et Les Couleurs will let you sample goat and cow milk ice creams with equally natural and local flavors (Rocamadour lavender, Causses honey… Yum!). You can also try the Pierro Vineyard in Branceilles, which offers IGP Pays de Brive and AOP Corrèze wines, all organically grown. You might even be greeted by the owners' dog. And how about meeting walnut growers and millers at the Moulin de la Vie Contée (Mill of Life's Tales)? You can stroll through the walnut orchard while enjoying the view of Turenne Castle and then discover the mill and gourmet walnut-based specialties. Finally, the Ferme de Laroque will introduce you to regional specialties made from ducks raised entirely outdoors.

Let's continue with the must-do dog-friendly activities in the Dordogne Valley . Let's explore the local heritage! You're guaranteed to be amazed, as the area is home to some of the most beautiful villages in France, stunning castles, and even a cave where dogs are welcome.

Collonges-la-Rouge is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Located in the Corrèze region, it's nicknamed "the ruby," a moniker it owes to its red sandstone houses that contrast with the surrounding greenery. Stroll through the village's narrow streets and don't miss the Halle aux Grains (Grain Market). Dog-friendly, the Halle aux Grains is a former medieval market hall located in the heart of the village; it once served as a place to trade foodstuffs. You can also visit the Maison de la Sirène (House of the Mermaid). This beautiful 16th-century Collonges-la-Rouge house now houses a museum where you can step back in time to learn more about the village. Dog-friendly, of course!

Rocamadour : No, I'm not talking about the cheese. It's also, and above all, a magnificent village! Perched on a cliff, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Don't miss the Rocher des Aigles (Eagle's Rock), a bird park where dogs on leashes are welcome. You'll discover birds of prey in a unique setting, ideal for a day full of discoveries with your dog!

Martel , nicknamed the “ town of 7 towers ,” is a charming village in the Lot region. Explore the Place des Consuls with its historic buildings. Dogs on leashes are welcome on the Truffadou, a steam train offering spectacular views over the Dordogne Valley.

There are plenty of other medieval towns to discover with your dog in the Dordogne Valley. Carennac , Loubressac , and others offer a fascinating immersion into the history of the Middle Ages. Carennac , with its abbey and cobbled streets, and Loubressac , with its typical stone houses, are just a few examples. These villages, rich in heritage, are ideal for a lovely historical walk with your dog.

Apart from these incredible villages, here are some other must-see places to visit in the Dordogne Valley. And I will end this selection in style with a site that I had the chance to visit with Musher and we were very well received by Maurice, owner and tour guide of the site!

Vassinhac Castle : restored from the 16th century, this castle has retained its original character. You can visit the different rooms with your pet and discover what the castle looked like back then.

The Towers of Merle , located in a 10-hectare park, invite you to discover its large medieval fortress and its magnificent views!