Array
(
    [id] => 01kz6s90a85qq92xr0fv03vhf6
    [published] => 1
    [name] => France - The Dordogne
    [code] => FRA13
    [slug] => france-the-dordogne
    [description] => 

During this week-long wildlife holiday we will be based near Rocamadour, a spectacular medieval village, abbey and castle built into the side of a cliff. From our very pleasant village hotel, we will not only enjoy the local cuisine and wines, but explore – as much as possible on foot – the varied habitats of the surrounding countryside. This unspoilt and lovely part of France is a veritable paradise for the keen naturalist. Birds are everywhere, butterflies and other insects abound, whilst a bewildering array of wild flowers provides a sea of colour in meadows, hedgerows and woodland glades. This is southern England before the days of intensive farming and suburban sprawl … only with twice the number of species!

  • Daily wildlife walks – ideal for the all-round naturalist
  • Flowers, birds & insects in abundance
  • A profusion of spring flowers (including 25-30 orchid species)
  • Look for Hoopoe, Golden Oriole & singing Nightingales
  • Pretty medieval towns & villages
  • Typical Dordogne village hotel serving tasty local cuisine (& wines)
  • Expert leadership from a locally based Naturetrek naturalist
[introduction] => An 8-day holiday in search of the plants, birds and butterflies of an unspoilt and idyllic region of rural France. [edges] => Array ( ) [locations] => Array ( [0] => Array ( [name] => France [description] =>

Our range of holidays in France focuses on the outstanding wildlife habitats that are still found in the country. In particular we focus on France’s spectacular mountain ranges – the Pyrenees and Alps, and other outstanding upland areas such as the Cevennes and Vercors, which are all exceptionally rich in plants, birds, mammals and butterflies.

France’s mountains and upland regions provide fine walking opportunities, although we always move at a pace slow enough to enjoy all aspects of the natural world!


France’s lowlands also provide some very special habitats. The Camargue is Europe’s best known wetland, thronged with flamingos and other wetland birds, while the Lot and Dordogne river valleys offer a varied tapestry of habitats and gently rolling hills rich in wild flowers and butterflies. Meanwhile Normandy and La Brenne offer relaxed wildlife itineraries, perfect for the all-round naturalist.

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Shutterstock 149974874 ) [13] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMSM75Q4GPGX7BN7MGA3A.jpg [title] => Grison'S Fritillary Shutterstock 402479965 ) [14] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKENMW6ZH2PZCJDW0DT9AGM4.jpg [title] => Corsica Shutterstock 339256502 ) [15] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEERTZFQDZCHXWY8783ATH0.jpg [title] => Small Pincertail Dragonfly Shutterstock 27783046 ) [16] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG81887NFBVVHWVKD5CQJB.jpg [title] => Corniche, France Shutterstock 384961399 ) [17] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEN64BEWWQS5HDCT2G1ZD3T.jpg [title] => Large Chequered Skipper Shutterstock 246798826 ) [18] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM40WMGBD2TZX0K2XCB7K.jpg [title] => Pearl Bordered Fritillary Shutterstock 369576596 ) [19] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKVV4238X6P8CCR308T47.jpg [title] => Castle Of Carcassonne, France. Shutterstock 168186269 ) [20] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMNPK13YMAM3A8TECSHSS.jpg [title] => Clouded Apollo Butterfly Shutterstock 566512588 ) [21] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEN9MTN21NRS8V7AQXC60P4.jpg [title] => Calanche Corsica Shutterstock 110906594 ) [22] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM400G8VR17YE05VDKQWDB.jpg [title] => Lac de Melo (David Morris) ) [23] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHE57SX5H8KJGFS30NBTN.jpg [title] => Yellow spotted Emerald immature male Dave Smallshire (Dave Smallshire) ) [24] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMCK30599QM79821EGV1RP.jpg [title] => Colorado (Ian Small) ) [25] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKM4PHT8M4904TY3TN89J.jpg [title] => Sunset over La Brenne (Tom McJannet) ) [26] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKV4X26W85ABER90W6TZ7.jpg [title] => Narrow-leaved Cistus, Vinassan ) [27] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEF039T5E4RVMSAYY1JF325.jpg [title] => Black Woodpecker ) [28] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEDZV9V9ZE1109322G50RM4.jpg [title] => Wallcreeper ) [29] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGJYYDR2XSYK6T1XSY9S44.jpg [title] => Greater Flamingo, Camargue, France Shutterstock 572628829 ) [30] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGK784SS2REKQVSTD8Z2EN.jpg [title] => Rocamadour, France Shutterstock 1097076977 ) [31] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEJJQA2RGJ0HR9NGNXWKS0Z.jpg [title] => Mazarine Blue Shutterstock 386230591 ) [32] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEDERKPYPH36JV74GRRJ38P.jpg [title] => Greater Flamingoes ) [33] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG936C48JSFRGQ00P4GA3P.jpg [title] => Stone Curlew Shutterstock 142886185 ) [34] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHSZV66K5TFXSH3P6PZ6A.jpg [title] => Cirque De Gavarnie, Pyrenees, France Shutterstock 656482690 ) [35] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMCMNDACBX8XZPRY2ZPDMY.jpg [title] => Woodpecker habitat (Bob Dawson) ) [36] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM6NKKGJS69TE94BNWPFZ.jpg [title] => Copper Demoiselle male (Ian McColl) ) [37] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMMX6RY7PKVVH3W12SBWMP.jpg [title] => Corsica (Dennis Waite) ) [38] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKDXF5PN4KAMYH8532JD4.jpg [title] => Glanville Fritillary butterflies (John and Jenny Willsher) ) [39] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM0R7C544ATBDP43QDNF5.jpg [title] => Searching for butterflies (Tom McJannet) ) [40] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG9C391BADVC6QATCM61EA.jpg [title] => Marsh Fritillary (Andy McGeeney) ) [41] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMJ3SMCBHQ4ZH1FM8YP3Q.jpg [title] => Lesser Marbled Fritillary (Mark Galliott) ) [42] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM3W8PQJDXSDNNPX58JHT7.jpg [title] => Our hotel in Arromanches, Normandy ) [43] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMR8AGXYPSSSCXSDJ30TX.jpg [title] => Niobe Fritillary (Tony Daniels) ) [44] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMR503WP820WA8DCN94K3.jpg [title] => Naturetrek clients on Causse Noir (Peter Dunn) ) [45] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKDT5A4Q4S787JEMETNY1.jpg [title] => Dactylorhiza sambucina (John and Jenny Willsher) ) [46] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKV1HSMKBA4VZYT2H07BH.jpg [title] => Minerve ) [47] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFDHMT7M3SNESDC6B6RPNW.jpg [title] => Champagny en Vanoise ) [48] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEKSF239RZAY2M70R2TZZET.jpg [title] => Crested Tit ) [49] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEJJZE2XXBMZHEMA5CSRKVV.jpg [title] => Alpine Marmot Shutterstock 1046700085 ) [50] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG7FQEWRS6MNZG9NRJ1DD0.jpg [title] => Camargue Wallcreeper Weekend Quarter Page, Camargue Horses ) [51] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG6DADC0FHG9NCQY2K8SP5.jpg [title] => Flamingos (Debbie Hart) ) [52] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG9BZHP7YRX5AQ9W3C26HQ.jpg [title] => Hotel Bellier (Paul Harmes) ) [53] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHPR4FMCASA0NFTKN9C9B.jpg [title] => Cirque de Gavarnie (Mark Galliott) ) [54] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMMX2K5Q2GQX01J2TNWV17.jpg [title] => Corsica (Dennis Waite) ) [55] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMBJJ00XJM5DG08CJ1YJQZ.jpg [title] => Cattle Egret (Don Farlow) ) [56] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG8ZSMBFPZNHPZ4XGTH77H.jpg [title] => Pin-tailed Sandgrouse Shutterstock 517998973 ) [57] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM3W5AMCJQPCADE2JM1GDS.jpg [title] => Our hotel in Arromanches, Normandy ) [58] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMJ0KD4Q50CG0EDC2E7BG.jpg [title] => Port de Boucharo (Mark Galliott) ) [59] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKM0F0ZVNRK96EZ8FZMD3.jpg [title] => Morning mist (Tom McJannet) ) [60] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM0N0E6E3QFAZE89SHCNX.jpg [title] => Whiskered Terns perched (Tom McJannet) ) [61] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMCJZWNNAAC68K5VQPJQTW.jpg [title] => Greater Flamingoes (Ken Williams) ) [62] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG7CD275RSGFGWP6MQJJSE.jpg [title] => Greater Flamingo (Peter Dunn) ) [63] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMCMJ15XF546MX0M0QFRVW.jpg [title] => Picnic Foret du Temple (Bob Dawson) ) [64] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHE23M742X8N3CW0RY53J.jpg [title] => Blue eye Erythromma lindenii m (Dave Smallshire) ) [65] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM3ZX3ERCHE3HZC6X20MB3.jpg [title] => Col de Vergio (David Morris) ) [66] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM6JE5ZA4WE1FE8QMYAXZ.jpg [title] => An interesting specimen (Ian McColl) ) [67] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMR1TTJV7S0G76XMMEGAQ.jpg [title] => Scarce Swallowtail (Peter Dunn) ) [68] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHPMMY4ECBM691AYAZRGV.jpg [title] => Vallee des Especieres (Toby Abrehart) ) [69] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMBK11HDJQFK2TX825YJ5F.jpg [title] => Greater Flamingo (Simon Gillings) ) [70] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM3ZS8AVE0EVTPR5CDZSYH.jpg [title] => Plain Tiger (David Morris) ) [71] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG6HVSHTVXGDH68PEKT9X8.jpg [title] => Breakfast at the Hotel Granges Arles ) [72] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGMHX8B92Q5VGPK859J3VE.jpg [title] => Purple Sandwort, Arenaria pururascens (Mark Galliott) ) [73] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM6FC55YQ7JKNADMYFVN4.jpg [title] => Sunset over the lagoon (Ian McColl) ) [74] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFDHC5Y5JRP9FWWX5CN0DS.jpg [title] => Hotel Etoile des Neiges in France, centre left (John East) ) [75] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKKXBZDK90ST65EXRS07Q.jpg [title] => Whiskered Tern (Tom McJannet) ) [76] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGM0A83M4ZSJC4VPH02F8P.jpg [title] => Whiskered Terns and Pochard (Tom McJannet) ) [77] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG9BWEQGQ19A8P11VVTVXD.jpg [title] => Group on the Hauts Plateaux (Paul Harmes) ) [78] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEM3W1W7DWVCXWQSK7TX1WJ.jpg [title] => Our hotel in Arromanches, Normandy ) [79] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHDYYQGS3Q7KG7BFTH1NS.jpg [title] => Etang de Bellebouche (Dave Smallshire) ) [80] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKTXP1PRRQ4Y6SCWSF2CN.jpg [title] => Gruissan salt pans with the Pyrennes in the distance ) [81] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG66NC9N776MJK16YMMJSG.jpg [title] => Stone-curlew (Deborah Hart) ) [82] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMCJWNHQPHMS9GCWHDSB2D.jpg [title] => Les Dentelles de Montmiral (Mark Galliott) ) [83] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEKSEQWDY9J7T6NZ0ZQ457H.jpg [title] => Firecrest ) [84] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEJJW6A7DPVV2NXJRTV17S0.jpg [title] => Rocamadour ) [85] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGKDN98T2ZZT1D0DXS8NVZ.jpg [title] => Florac (John and Jenny Willsher) ) [86] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMMWZ3M40YG2R031TBPHCC.jpg [title] => Greengrocers (Dennis Waite) ) [87] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEGHPH3EJ2MH0QD28174K4T.jpg [title] => Moss Campion, Silene acaulis on the border (David Morris) ) [88] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEMBJNDE29MDZ3G50NYVWNE.jpg [title] => Provence Landscape (Simon Gillings) ) [89] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG7CJQQMAGP5ZV11EXJDNK.jpg [title] => White Horses (Peter Dunn) ) [90] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG8W2MC1MQ1VBHYDQNN6B5.jpg [title] => Bearded Tit (Tom Mabbett) ) [91] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEJJW2TPVRJHDG1AFC6F61G.jpg [title] => Wild Cornflower Centaurea cyanus (Mark Galliott) ) [92] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEFDH7TDR9XN3W5CYZPMMHY.jpg [title] => Glaciers de la Vanoise ) [93] => Array ( [link] => https://rezkit-tour-images.b-cdn.net/01jh31dg24d58mgyan1rg1zbhh/images/01JKEG7C66JC893NFY5MP29XBA.jpg [title] => Greater Flamingos (Peter Dunn) ) ) [parent] => Array ( [name] => Europe ) ) [1] => Array ( [name] => Dordogne [description] =>

The Dordogne, one of the major rivers of France, rises from just below Puy Sancy, in the mountains of the Auvergne, finally entering the Bay of Biscay by means of the Garonne estuary near Bordeaux. However, it is at the middle of its course, amongst the heartlands of rural southern France, that it is at its most beautiful, meandering so peacefully through wide limestone gorges and rolling hills bedecked with dense oak woodlands. Here, stunning ochre-coloured stone hamlets nestle in the valleys amongst walnut trees and fields of maize and sunflowers, whilst large villages cling precariously to the riverside cliffs or perch fortress-like atop hills and ridges, often huddling around an 18th century chateau or the ruins of a castle dating back to the Hundred Years War with England. This unspoilt and idyllic region is also a veritable paradise for the keen naturalist. Birds are everywhere and butterflies and other insects abound, whilst a vast array of wild flowers provides a sea of colour in meadows, hedgerows and woodland glades. This is southern England before the days of intensive farming and suburban sprawl … only with twice the number of species!

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The Dordogne, one of the major rivers of France, rises from just below Puy Sancy, in the mountains of the Auvergne, and enters the Bay of Biscay by means of the Garonne estuary near Bordeaux. However, it is at the middle of its course, amongst the heartlands of rural southern France, that it is at its most beautiful, meandering so peacefully through wide limestone gorges and rolling hills bedecked with dense oak woodlands. Here, stunning ochre-coloured stone hamlets nestle in the valleys amongst walnut trees and fields of maize and sunflowers, whilst large villages cling precariously to the riverside cliffs or perch fortress-like atop hills and ridges, often huddling around an 18th-century chateau or the ruins of a castle dating back to the Hundred Years War with England.

During our week-long holiday we will be based near Rocamadour, a spectacular medieval village, abbey and castle built into the side of a cliff. Choosing a very pleasant village hotel, we will enjoy good local food and wines, and explore — as much as possible on foot — the varied habitats of the surrounding countryside. In mid May this unspoilt and lovely part of France is a veritable paradise for the keen naturalist. Birds are everywhere, butterflies and other insects abound, whilst a bewildering array of flowering plants provide a sea of colour in meadows, hedgerows and woodland glades. This is southern England in the days before intensive farming and suburban sprawl… only with twice the number of species!

One of the reasons for this great diversity is the varying density of the underlying limestone, a characteristic of this landscape being the spectacular cliffs, formed where the river’s course has been impeded by harder rock. Such broken country suits many birds of prey, including both Red and Black Kites, Honey Buzzard, Hobby, Peregrine, harriers, and even the occasional Booted Eagle, as well as Crag Martin and Alpine Swift. These limestone gorges also support a very rich flora, with orchids being particularly well represented. Most noticeable perhaps, with abundant large spikes, are the strange but beautiful Lizard Orchids, but Man, Military, Lady, Monkey, Burnt-tip, Bee and Fly Orchids are plentiful, together with Red, Sword-leaved and White Helleborines. Many other rare and beautiful plants can also be found, which helps explain the abundance of the many butterflies on the wing at this time of the year. Comma, Southern White Admiral, Cleopatra, Swallowtail, Scarce Swallowtail, Large Tortoiseshell, and numerous different fritillaries and blues are just a few of the species we should see.

Away from the river, the alkaline rocks have eroded to form a stony, mineral-rich red soil that encourages woodland, sparse grazing and just a few small cultivated fields. This is a rolling landscape of small villages and subsistence farming, absolutely brimming with wildlife. Flowery banks are everywhere, with more orchids and other plants, including Field Eryngo (Eryngium campestre), Meadow Clary (Salvia pratensis), Hoary Mullein (Verbascum pulverulentum) and White Flax (Linum suffruticosum), present. The rare cornfield weeds, Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), Corn Buttercup (Ranunculus arvensis) and Corn Cockle (Agrostemma githago), can also sometimes be found in the small fields. This pastoral landcape is the ideal country for Hoopoe, Golden Oriole, Wryneck, Melodious Warbler and more birds of prey, while the beautiful song of the Nightingale seems to emanate from practically every piece of scrub. Butterflies and other insects are again very abundant, whilst Green and Wall Lizards scamper away from our footsteps.

A little to the north-east of our base we will also explore the area where the river emerges from the hard volcanic rocks of the Massif Central plateau, to flow through the charming small market towns of Argentat and Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. The predominant schist and sandstone rocks here give rise to acid soils, with a mixture of oak and Sweet Chestnut woodland, sandy heathland and damp boggy areas so markedly different in character from the habitats of our previous forays. Goshawk may be seen displaying on fine days and we have a chance of an elusive Hawfinch, Cirl Bunting or Firecrest. The flora is not so rich, but specialities like Summer Lady’s Tresses (Spiranthes aestivalis) and Spiked Rampion (Phyteuma spicatum) are likely to be seen. There is also a rare outcrop of Serpentine rock which has its own interesting flora.

This holiday offers the chance to enjoy a great diversity of species amongst idyllic rural scenery of a character which is fast disappearing from the rest of Europe. It also provides the opportunity to view and appreciate the superb architecture of this region, while also, of course, sampling the gastronomic delights of the food and drink for which it is justifiably famous.

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A charming rural hotel with private facilities, serving excellent local food.

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All included in the price.

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Plants, birds and butterflies.

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At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

  • The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
  • Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
  • Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!

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A Naturetrek Tailormade holiday allows you, with the benefit of our wildlife travel expertise and destination experience, to enjoy the perfect private wildlife holiday – one that truly matches your requirements, expectations and ambitions. We will ensure the most competitive prices, superb naturalist guides and seamless ground services.

Some of the benefits of Naturetrek Tailormade travel include:
• A bespoke itinerary which is crafted by experts and designed specifically for you
• Private guiding by the very best local naturalists 
• Travel with people you know, at your own pace
• Incorporate as much culture, history or relaxation time as you wish
• Choose dates to suit you
• Select your preferred style of accommodation
• Travel with families and children of any age

Furthermore, our Tailormade team are always on hand to help and guide you along the way, with friendly advice, first-hand knowledge and inside information specific to your destination of choice. So if you have any queries about your holiday, we will be delighted to answer them. Please just give us a call!

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For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

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Itinerary image

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An 8-day holiday in search of the plants, birds and butterflies of an unspoilt and idyllic region of rural France.

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This comfortable, family run hotel is a wonderful base from which to explore the Lot Valley. All rooms are en-suite and have Wi-Fi. The area, part of the old region of Quercy, has an exemplary culinary tradition, similar to that of neighboring Dordogne, with great emphasis on the use of fresh local produce – best accompanied by a glass of the local dark red Cahors wine. Free range ducks and geese are reared locally, producing an impressive variety of products for the dinner table. A particularly delicious dish is "confit de canard", a portion of duck slow-cooked, and then preserved within its own fat. This is then grilled or sautéed before serving, making the skin beautifully crisp. The local beef and especially the lamb are also to be recommended, with milk from the latter being used in the production of various delicious cheeses. 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The hotel offers excellent local cuisine and rooms are all en suite. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and terrace where one can relax, enjoying the sounds of this charming little village. 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France - The Dordogne

Tour Code: FRA13

An 8-day holiday in search of the plants, birds and butterflies of an unspoilt and idyllic region of rural France.

£1,995

Flight Inclusive

£1,795

Land Only
Why Choose Naturetrek?

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Tour Itinerary and Reports

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1 Itinerary 13 Tour Reports
Carbon Footprint

3843kg CO2e

With International Flights

824.1kg CO2e

Tour Only

What does this mean?

Highlights

  • Daily wildlife walks – ideal for the all-round naturalist
  • Flowers, birds & insects in abundance
  • A profusion of spring flowers (including 25-30 orchid species)
  • Look for Hoopoe, Golden Oriole & singing Nightingales
  • Pretty medieval towns & villages
  • Typical Dordogne village hotel serving tasty local cuisine (& wines)
  • Expert leadership from a locally based Naturetrek naturalist

Summary

The Dordogne, one of the major rivers of France, rises from just below Puy Sancy, in the mountains of the Auvergne, and enters the Bay of Biscay by means of the Garonne estuary near Bordeaux. However, it is at the middle of its course, amongst the heartlands of rural southern France, that it is at its most beautiful, meandering so peacefully through wide limestone gorges and rolling hills bedecked with dense oak woodlands. Here, stunning ochre-coloured stone hamlets nestle in the valleys amongst walnut trees and fields of maize and sunflowers, whilst large villages cling precariously to the riverside cliffs or perch fortress-like atop hills and ridges, often huddling around an 18th-century chateau or the ruins of a castle dating back to the Hundred Years War with England.

During our week-long holiday we will be based near Rocamadour, a spectacular medieval village, abbey and castle built into the side of a cliff. Choosing a very pleasant village hotel, we will enjoy good local food and wines, and explore — as much as possible on foot — the varied habitats of the surrounding countryside. In mid May this unspoilt and lovely part of France is a veritable paradise for the keen naturalist. Birds are everywhere, butterflies and other insects abound, whilst a bewildering array of flowering plants provide a sea of colour in meadows, hedgerows and woodland glades. This is southern England in the days before intensive farming and suburban sprawl… only with twice the number of species!

One of the reasons for this great diversity is the varying density of the underlying limestone, a characteristic of this landscape being the spectacular cliffs, formed where the river’s course has been impeded by harder rock. Such broken country suits many birds of prey, including both Red and Black Kites, Honey Buzzard, Hobby, Peregrine, harriers, and even the occasional Booted Eagle, as well as Crag Martin and Alpine Swift. These limestone gorges also support a very rich flora, with orchids being particularly well represented. Most noticeable perhaps, with abundant large spikes, are the strange but beautiful Lizard Orchids, but Man, Military, Lady, Monkey, Burnt-tip, Bee and Fly Orchids are plentiful, together with Red, Sword-leaved and White Helleborines. Many other rare and beautiful plants can also be found, which helps explain the abundance of the many butterflies on the wing at this time of the year. Comma, Southern White Admiral, Cleopatra, Swallowtail, Scarce Swallowtail, Large Tortoiseshell, and numerous different fritillaries and blues are just a few of the species we should see.

Away from the river, the alkaline rocks have eroded to form a stony, mineral-rich red soil that encourages woodland, sparse grazing and just a few small cultivated fields. This is a rolling landscape of small villages and subsistence farming, absolutely brimming with wildlife. Flowery banks are everywhere, with more orchids and other plants, including Field Eryngo (Eryngium campestre), Meadow Clary (Salvia pratensis), Hoary Mullein (Verbascum pulverulentum) and White Flax (Linum suffruticosum), present. The rare cornfield weeds, Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus), Corn Buttercup (Ranunculus arvensis) and Corn Cockle (Agrostemma githago), can also sometimes be found in the small fields. This pastoral landcape is the ideal country for Hoopoe, Golden Oriole, Wryneck, Melodious Warbler and more birds of prey, while the beautiful song of the Nightingale seems to emanate from practically every piece of scrub. Butterflies and other insects are again very abundant, whilst Green and Wall Lizards scamper away from our footsteps.

A little to the north-east of our base we will also explore the area where the river emerges from the hard volcanic rocks of the Massif Central plateau, to flow through the charming small market towns of Argentat and Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne. The predominant schist and sandstone rocks here give rise to acid soils, with a mixture of oak and Sweet Chestnut woodland, sandy heathland and damp boggy areas so markedly different in character from the habitats of our previous forays. Goshawk may be seen displaying on fine days and we have a chance of an elusive Hawfinch, Cirl Bunting or Firecrest. The flora is not so rich, but specialities like Summer Lady’s Tresses (Spiranthes aestivalis) and Spiked Rampion (Phyteuma spicatum) are likely to be seen. There is also a rare outcrop of Serpentine rock which has its own interesting flora.

This holiday offers the chance to enjoy a great diversity of species amongst idyllic rural scenery of a character which is fast disappearing from the rest of Europe. It also provides the opportunity to view and appreciate the superb architecture of this region, while also, of course, sampling the gastronomic delights of the food and drink for which it is justifiably famous.

Outline Itinerary

Day
1
Fly Limoges/Brive and drive to the Dordogne
Days
2 - 7
Daily programme of natural history walks and excursions in the Dordogne region
Day
8
Fly London
Itinerary Image
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What's Included?

Food

All included in the price.

Accommodation

A charming rural hotel with private facilities, serving excellent local food.

Reviews

S.G., Berkshire, May 25, Aug 2025

Bruce was an amazing tour guide. His knowledge was second to none and he went over and above to show us as much variety of wildlife as possible. He also arranged trips - cave and castle on the 1st 2 wet days which added interest to the holiday. The day trips were excellent- they couldn’t have been better.

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Dates & Prices

2027

Flight Inclusive

£1,995

Land Only

£1,795

Single Supplement

£195

Regional Departures

Would you rather depart from an airport closer to you? Give us a call at 1-844-433-9473 and we'll see what we can do.

Tour Leader
Bruce Middleton
Bruce Middleton
Bruce Middleton lives in Hampshire and is a botanist, ecologist, wildlife artist, wildlife photographer and a honey bee keeper.
Read more about Bruce

Prefer to Travel in a Private Group?

For any interested natural history club or society, we can arrange for a private departure of this tour.

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At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:

  • The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
  • Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
  • Outstanding value and exceptional customer service

Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!

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