Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Saud-Lacoussière are found within the Périgord Limousin Regional Natural Park in the Dordogne department. This region offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. Visitors can explore diverse landscapes, from the tranquil Saint-Saud Lake and the Dronne River to ancient churches and charming villages. The area is well-suited for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Last updated: May 4, 2026
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A beautiful, newly paved cycle path, the Flow Velo, between Nontron and St. Pardoux. The Flow Velo runs along an old railway line much further than to Nontron or St. Pardoux, but this section is the best for cycling. The only annoying thing is the barriers at every crossing, no matter how small, such as a dirt road.
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Why Visit Thiviers? For its gastronomy: Thiviers is a paradise for gourmets. With its fat markets, truffles and local products, the city offers an authentic and unique culinary experience. For its historical heritage: Between its Gothic church and its museums, Thiviers allows you to delve into the history of Périgord and discover the Périgord way of life. For the surrounding nature: Located in the Périgord Vert, the city is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside, whether through hikes or bike rides. Thiviers is an ideal destination for those looking to discover the gastronomic and natural heritage of Périgord, while enjoying the charm of an authentic and welcoming small town.
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Nature and hiking: Green environment: Surrounded by hills and forests, Thiviers is the ideal starting point for hikes in the Périgord Vert. Nature lovers can take advantage of the marked trails to discover the local flora and fauna. The Thiviers-Saint-Pardoux greenway: This old railway line transformed into a cycle path allows you to explore the surrounding countryside in complete tranquility, whether on foot or by bike. Market and local traditions: Weekly market: The Thiviers market is a meeting place for locals and visitors. You can find local products, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and of course, Périgord specialties such as foie gras and duck confit. Festivals and festivals: Thiviers regularly organizes cultural and gastronomic events, such as the Foire du Gras, which celebrates local products, or even music and traditional arts festivals. Vaucocour Castle: 18th century building: Located not far from the city, this castle, surrounded by a magnificent park, is a beautiful example of 18th century architecture. It is possible to visit its gardens and learn more about local history.
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Thiviers, located in the Dordogne, is a charming little town in the Périgord Vert, renowned for its rich historical and gastronomic heritage. Nicknamed the "capital of foie gras and truffles", Thiviers is a destination of choice for lovers of good food and history buffs. Surrounded by green landscapes, this town offers a beautiful immersion in the culture and traditions of the Périgord. Points of Interest in Thiviers: Historical Heritage: Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church: This Gothic church, dating from the 13th century, is one of the most important monuments in Thiviers. It impresses with its sober and elegant architecture, with its square bell tower and colorful stained glass windows. Museum of earthenware and tableware: Located in a private mansion, this museum houses a beautiful collection of old earthenware and tableware objects, testifying to the importance of culinary traditions in Périgord. Local gastronomy: Capital of foie gras: Thiviers is world-renowned for its foie gras production. Every year, foie gras markets attract many visitors, and the city regularly organizes gastronomic events showcasing this emblematic product. Périgord truffles: In addition to foie gras, Thiviers is also famous for its truffles, these precious mushrooms that make the region famous. The truffle market in winter is an unmissable event for gourmets.
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The natural setting: Bordered by the Côle: Saint-Jean-de-Côle is surrounded by nature, with the small Côle river running through the village, offering bucolic and green landscapes. Hiking and walks: The surroundings of the village are full of trails for hiking enthusiasts. These paths allow you to explore the countryside of the Périgord Vert, its forests, and its meadows, while enjoying the calm and beauty of nature. Events and Crafts: Medieval festivals: The village regularly organizes events such as medieval festivals that recreate the atmosphere of the Middle Ages with costumes, shows and craft markets. Local crafts: Saint-Jean-de-Côle is also home to several local artisans and artists who offer their works and creations, whether pottery, textiles or gastronomic products. Why Visit Saint-Jean-de-Côle? For its medieval charm: Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Jean-de-Côle offers a unique setting with its historic buildings, cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. For history: The Romanesque church, the Château de la Marthonie, and the bridge bear witness to several centuries of history, transporting visitors to another era. For the surrounding nature: In addition to its heritage, the village is an ideal starting point for exploring the countryside of the Périgord Vert, between walks and discoveries of the local fauna and flora. Saint-Jean-de-Côle is therefore an essential destination for those who wish to combine historical and natural heritage, while enjoying the calm and beauty of a Périgord village.
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Saint-Jean-de-Côle, located in the Dordogne, is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Nestled in the heart of the Périgord Vert, this small medieval village seduces with its picturesque architecture and peaceful atmosphere. It is a true jewel of the Périgord heritage, offering visitors an enchanting setting to walk and discover local history. Points of Interest in Saint-Jean-de-Côle: Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church: Romanesque Church: The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, is a magnificent example of Périgord Romanesque architecture. It is distinguished by its dome-shaped bell tower and its imposing porch. Interior decoration: The interior is sober but impressive with its restored frescoes and its dome, offering an atmosphere imbued with spirituality and history. The Château de la Marthonie: Renaissance Castle: This castle stands proudly on the main square of the village. Built from the 12th century and remodeled during the Renaissance, it once served as a residence for the lords of the region. With its towers and elegant facades, it dominates the village and reinforces its medieval charm. Defensive architecture: The castle retains elements of fortification, recalling the time when it served as a defense against invasions. The Roman Bridge: A little historical gem: This stone bridge, which crosses the Côle River, is a vestige of the village's medieval past. It is lined with small picturesque houses that give the impression that time has stood still. Place for a walk: The bridge and its surroundings are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering magnificent views of the village and the surrounding countryside. Half-timbered houses: Traditional architecture: Strolling through the cobbled streets, visitors discover charming half-timbered houses with tiled roofs, typical of the rural architecture of the Périgord. These well-preserved houses bear witness to the centuries-old history of the village. Timeless atmosphere: Every street corner invites discovery, with flower-filled houses and small shaded squares.
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Don't miss this village, the most beautiful village in France At the foot of the drip wall of the choir of the church of Saint-Jean-de-Côle lie four respite graves. These are anthropomorphic sarcophagi the size of a newborn. In the Middle Ages, when infant mortality was high, stillborn or young children were often unable to be baptized. They could therefore not be buried in the cemetery, consecrated ground. Installed in respite boxes, they received directly from the roof of the church the dripping rainwater considered blessed. Baptism became effective after a few months and the children could finally be buried in the cemetery.
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The Floralies of Saint-Jean de Côle. The village is entirely decorated with flowers.
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The region is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the Saut du Chalard Waterfall on the Dronne, known for its refreshing, clear water and pure natural setting. The 13-hectare Saint-Saud Lake (Plan d'eau de Saint-Saud) offers swimming, fishing, and a 2.5 km hiking circuit. The Dronne River itself is excellent for fishing and features a rocky chaos section. Don't miss the Arboretum Montagnac with over 150 tree species, or explore the wider Périgord Limousin Regional Natural Park.
Yes, the area boasts several historical and cultural gems. Saint-Jean-de-Côle is recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages, featuring an 11th-century priory, a 12th-century church, and a medieval bridge. You can also explore Thiviers Old Town, known for its historical and gastronomic heritage, including half-timbered houses and the Gothic Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church. The 12th-century Romanesque Saint-Etienne Church in Saint-Saud-Lacoussière itself is also a significant site with restored frescoes.
Saint-Saud-Lacoussière is a paradise for hikers. The Périgord Limousin Regional Natural Park offers numerous trails. You can enjoy a 2.5 km circuit around Saint-Saud Lake or explore paths along the Dronne River. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Saint-Saud-Lacoussière guide, which includes routes like the moderate 'Grand Etang Lake loop' or the more challenging 'Le Terme de la Motte loop'.
Absolutely. The region is well-suited for cycling, including mountain biking. The 'Flow Velo' cycle path offers a newly paved section between Nontron and Saint Pardoux la Riviere, known for its quiet lanes. For road cycling enthusiasts, explore routes like the 'Saint-Jean-de-Côle – Thiviers Old Town loop' or the 'Pensol Church – Ballarand pond loop' by consulting the Road Cycling Routes around Saint-Saud-Lacoussière guide. For general cycling, the Cycling around Saint-Saud-Lacoussière guide offers various routes, including the 'Château de Ballerand loop'.
Yes, many attractions cater to families. Saint-Saud Lake offers children's play areas, picnic tables, and supervised swimming in summer. Water sports like babyski and wakeboarding are available on summer weekends. The Saut du Chalard Waterfall on the Dronne is also considered family-friendly. Both Saint-Jean-de-Côle and Thiviers Old Town offer charming environments for family strolls and exploration.
The region is enjoyable year-round, but for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to October) are ideal. Summer offers supervised swimming and water sports at Saint-Saud Lake. The Arboretum Montagnac can be visited year-round by appointment.
Saint-Saud-Lacoussière hosts various events throughout the year. Notably, the 'Fête du cèpe' (Porcini Mushroom Festival) and 'Veau sous la Mère' (Veal under the Mother) take place on the first Sunday of October, celebrating local gastronomy. There's also a farmers market in July and a Christmas market in November, offering a taste of local culture and produce.
Beyond the main highlights, consider visiting the Cistercian Abbey of Boschaud, whose ruins lie in a picturesque valley. The Dronne river area is also dotted with several historic mills, some still in use. A short walk from the campsite, you can discover the impressive Boviduc. These offer a glimpse into the region's quieter charm.
Yes, Saint-Saud Lake (Plan d'eau de Saint-Saud) is equipped to be accessible. Adapted equipment is available for individuals with disabilities, ensuring a more inclusive experience for enjoying the lake and its activities.
The Saut du Chalard Waterfall on the Dronne is a popular and refreshing spot for wild swimming, known for its clear, cold water and natural setting. Saint-Saud Lake also offers supervised swimming during the summer months.
A bit further afield, you can visit the 12th-century Château de Montbrun, which reflects gracefully in its lake. The Grotte de Villars (Villars Cave) features ancient signs and drawings, and the graceful Château de Puyguilhem is also within a short drive. Brantôme in Périgord, known as the 'Venice of Périgord,' with its impressive abbey and troglodyte caves, is also a worthy visit.


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