Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère in Dordogne
Welcome to Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, one of Périgord Noir’s hidden treasures, 10mns from Montignac and Lascaux. The village is nestled into the meanders of the Vézère Valley. Its charm and its heritage has made it worthy of its classification as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.
In this Dordogne village, its local history blends with the French “art de vivre”. Every small paved lane leads us towards a historic building, a craftsperson’s workshop or a charming house and its flowers. At the centre of the village, you can relax on the benches in the square or on the river banks in the shade of the beautiful weeping willows and admire the 12th century Romanesque church.
What is there to do in Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, in Dordogne?
The peaceful banks of the Vézère are an enchanting place for walks or picnics in Périgord. There is everything to make lovers of the outdoors happy: trails, canoes, walks, prehistory workshops and treetop adventures.
Walks and hikes around the village
All footpaths lead to Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère! Several signposted footpaths lead to the Dordogne’s hidden treasures, with choices for both enthusiastic walkers and families looking for an easy walk.
Viewpoint over Saint-Léon-sur Vézère village
From the campsite, there is a path up the peaceful Jor hillside taking you to a panoramic view over the Vézère Valley. Breathe in the scent of a pine forest near the view point, with a shady picnic spot and vista of the valley below. The signposted circuit is suitable for all levels.
Discover the small rural heritage of the Dordogne
In the village, a signposted footpath takes you past old wash places and springs. Learn about Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère’s local history whilst enjoying the refreshing and pretty water features along the way.
View of the château de Clérans
Don’t miss out on the experience of a walk up to the château de Clérans. The 18th century castle is set in the heart of the countryside on the banks of the Vézère. A footpath will lead you across meadows and woodland, revealing little by little this architectural jewel.
A forest walk by the water
A quiet footpath leads you to hear the murmur of the water. Perfect for wild flower enthusiasts and anyone in search of peace. You will see the mysterious cliffs of Castel Merle which stretch from Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère to the village of Sergeac.
Treetop adventure at Conquil at Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
Le Parc Accrobranche Le Conquil has a variety of trails in the treetops for all levels.
Ziplines, tree to tree crossings, and other aerial challenges will take you across the forest, with a view of the cliffs and the river. Young children can take part in safety with trails specially designed for them, and adults can have a go at more daring adventures. From Le Conquil you can see Castle Merle and the château de Clérans.
Visit to Castel Merle next to Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
Castel Merle reveals highly important archaeological treasures in Dordogne.
Caves and Rock Shelters
Castle Merle is well known for its caves and rock shelters which were lived in by prehistoric man, thousands of years ago. Archaeologists have discovered cave paintings, tools and remains which trace the evolution of human life in Dordogne …and elsewhere.
Archaeological Museum
There is an archaeological museum on the site with prehistoric objects, faithful reproductions and an interactive exhibition.
Guided Visits
The guided visit at Castle Merle is one of the must-dos in Périgord. The guides will show you, with their infectious enthusiasm, the way along the paths which wind around the caves and cliffs.
Donjon et manoir de la Salle at Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
At the centre of the village, an authentic building with several curiosities is open to visitors.
The keep tower: a reminder of the Middle ages, with period furniture
By looking up at the tower from the village, you can understand how it was once an imposing symbol of power and protection. There is an uninterrupted view over the roofs of the village from the tower.
To get there, visitors climb a spiral staircase with unexpected surprises in the rooms on each floor.
The manor de la Salle: Elegance and a Family History
Next to the keep, the manor’s architecture is more residential and shows the elegance of medieval life. We admire the decoration created with care and passion. The many curiosities and mythical creatures on show leave a marked impression on both adults and children.
The manor gardens
The gardens surrounding the keep and the manor create a pastoral scene in this historic place. Visitors can wander around them, feel refreshed, and admire the périgordian architecture.
Canoeing at Saint-Léon-sur Vézère
At Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, you can turn to aquatic adventures by hiring canoes and kayaks. All on board for a trip down the Vézère, in Dordogne.
Boating on the Vézère
The peaceful and meandering Vézère offers a scenic route for explorers. People say it reminds them of the spectacular scenery in Indiana Jones or The Lord of the Rings. Its calm and winding waters flow between historical buildings, nature and an exceptional geology. The banks are covered in luxurious vegetation, and look out for the local wildlife, from kingfishers to herons.
Hire a canoe at Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
Le Paradis Campsite rents out canoes. Canoeing at Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère is accessible for all ages and levels, for families, with friends or on your own. Young children will love the sensation of floating down the river and explorers will have fun getting to places you can’t get reach on land.
5-star campsite à Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère
5mn from the village, on the banks of the Vézère, our 5-star campsite offers luxury and nature loving holidays; Paradise at le Paradis!
We rent out bikes, canoes and electric cars for you to discover Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère and the Dordogne.
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