Family hike at Saut du Chalard in Périgord Vert

Here is a very pretty family hike to do on hot summer days and all year round, to admire nature adorning itself with its many colors. The Saut du Chalard is a waterfall on the Dronne river, which is in the commune of Champs Romain, in Périgord Vert. To get there, a short walk is necessary, but nothing is impossible and the key is the discovery of an enchanting natural environment, perfect for a family afternoon, a picnic or just the pleasure of being close to nature.

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A family hike in Périgord Vert

To get to Saut du Charlard, nothing could be simpler, follow the signs from the village of Champs Romain. Well indicated, the hike begins at a free car park where you can easily park your vehicle. You are not far from Saint-Pardoux-la-Rivière and its greenway, as well as Saint-Saut-Lacoussière and its pond! This region is ideal for discovering hiking with children, and if you go on a family holiday to a campsite in the Périgord Vert, you will have the opportunity to do several such walks: easy, fast and breathtaking.

The hike follows 2km of round trip trail. There is little difference in height (100m), except for a passage near the river, where you will have to descend with caution so as not to slip on small stones and roots. By walking slowly, anyone can do it! Don't come in tap shoes, you risk slipping, take a pair of trainers! Be respectful of this site, whose private access is authorized by the owner. If you make the round trip, it will take you about 1h30, but I recommend that you bring something to eat and refresh yourself, to enjoy this beautiful place for a few hours! Take your rubbish away, there are no rubbish bins.

The Dronne is a river seen here in its wild state. Large granite rocks form a chao on its course, which children have fun climbing or jumping. The Dronne meanders between these rocks and then heads towards Brantôme until it reaches L'Isle, of which it is a tributary. Did you know that the Dronne is a gold- bearing river? The precious golden metal is found in its turbulent waters…

This little piece of Périgord Vert is generous in flora and fauna discoveries! We will come across all kinds of ferns, butcher's broom (a little holly, it stings!), conifers (Douglas firs, fir trees, spruces, pines...) and woodland animals (small field mice, curious squirrels, small deer... ). Open your eyes on the way, take your time to observe nature.

A waterfall to admire all year round

1km of trail further, here you are at the edge of the Dronne, you can hear it flowing and crashing against the granite blocks. The waterfall is on your left , it is easy to access, but depending on the season we recommend great caution, as strong and sucking currents can occur at its feet. The waterfall is more impressive during rainy periods. In summer, it loses some of its luster during major droughts, but it generally flows without interruption! The banks of the Dronne are relaxing here. You can land on a round and comfortable rock, nestle in the mosses between the roots of the trees, snuggle up on the bank with your feet in the water. The natural environment is very pretty and the flow of water, the lapping, bring a musical note to whoever knows how to hear it!

We spent 2 hours at the Saut du Chalard, it's time to go back and continue your discovery of Périgord Vert.

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