A boat trip is a very good way to discover all the facets of Périgord from Green to Purple, passing through White and Black. Perched on cliffs and rocky outcrops, impressive medieval castles dominate the valleys formed by the Dordogne and Vézère rivers. You will have plenty of time to admire them during a cruise in an authentic Gabarre. If you prefer a quiet walk along the water, it is in a simple boat that you will appreciate the Périgord landscapes, between oak forests and green meadows, especially on the Isle or the Dronne.
Photos: Guide du Périgord, unless otherwise stated
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The Barges of Bergerac
In Périgord Pourpre, the Gabarres de Bergerac take you to the Dordogne. You can embark in the historic port of Les Gabarriers, on the quay of Salvette. Along the Dordogne, you will have an unusual view of the old town of Bergerac and you will see a few castles. Several circuits of different durations allow you to appreciate the panoramas of the Bergerac area and to discover the history of these astonishing boats. You can also take a cruise from Mouleydier, near Creysse.
On the outskirts of the town of Bergerac, not far from the banks of the Dordogne, the Etang de Campréal offers you an unusual leisure area. You will find a miniature port there! Climb aboard small electric boats reproducing different types of boats: trawler, ferryboat or fireboat. Children will be proud to become captains and embark on crazy adventures! Also take advantage of mini-golf, go-karts, inflatable structures and the refreshment bar...
In the heart of the Périgord Noir, the Gabarres Caminade take you back in time on the Dordogne. Along the castles of the Middle Ages, the old stones embedded in the cliff of La Roque-Gageac, the charming country houses, placed on the banks, you will discover the Périgord heritage.
Les Croisières de Brantôme transports you to the verdant nature of the Périgord Vert. Aboard an electric boat: the Drona, you criss-cross the Périgord Limousin Regional Natural Park. The circuit begins in Brantôme, the Venice of Périgord. During a visit of about an hour, you can admire the small and large local heritage: the medieval houses, the Coudé Bridge, the sumptuous Abbey and its 11th century bell tower.
The Gabarres du Moulin de Duellas take you through the Périgord Blanc, along the Isle. Cruising aboard an old Gabarre, you will learn all kinds of information about the history of these boats and their economic importance. You will have the opportunity to observe the local fauna and flora of this preserved green setting and to learn more about the environment of the region. They are located in Montpon-Ménestérol.
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The boats of the Maison de la Dronne
It is in Ribérac in the Périgord Blanc, just 45 minutes from Périgueux, that you can discover this enchanting place. The Maison de la Dronne allows you to take boat trips on the Dronne river. Leisurely, at your own pace, you will pass charming mills and traditional country houses. To extend your visit, remember to book accommodation at Camping de la Dronne.