A stroll through the Auvézère Gorges
Unlike the other rivers in the Dordogne, whether the Vézère, the Dordogne, the Isle or the Dronne, the Auvézère does not stand out for the richness of its heritage, but above all for its wild character. This river, which rises in the Massif Central on the Millevache plateau, traces a wild path through the Périgord before flowing into the Isle. Along part of its course in the Périgord Vert, the Auvézère has carved out some superb gorges. Between boulders, the river alternates between rapids and waterfalls. Starting from the village of Saint-Mesmin, there's a lovely walk that invites you to discover these wild, winding gorges. This trail runs alongside the river and also uses footbridges installed by the département above the Auvézère. The Terra Aventura geo-caching application in New Aquitaine makes this walk fun for children, turning it into a treasure hunt. This walk, starting in Saint Mesmin, is a loop of just a few kilometres that can be completed with the whole family. The trail is signposted, so there's no need for a map. But don't forget your hiking boots. During your camping holiday in the Périgord Vert, don't miss the chance to go hiking in the Auvézère Gorges. It's a paradise for nature lovers. As you stroll along, keep your eyes peeled for mouflons, if you're lucky. A protected species that has made its home in the Auvézère valley in the Dordogne. If you're a keen kayaker, you can also take a trip down the tumultuous waters of the Auvézère. In fact, the river is classified as a venue for the French kayaking championships. If you're not an expert kayaker, you can still enjoy white-water sports on the Auvézère's crystal-clear waters. Once past the gorges, the river becomes gentler and more suitable for family canoeing. The reception of the campsite where you are staying during your stay in the Dordogne will be able to help you find the best canoe hire company close to the campsite and advise you on the best distance to travel. When you're back from your activities, you can take a dip in the swimming pool at the campsite where you're holidaying, or simply relax on your campsite pitch or on the terrace of your rental accommodation, be it a chalet or mobile home. And if you prefer to swim in natural water, you'll find all the information you need on the campsite about swimming in the Auvézère or picnicking by the water.
Discover our industrial heritage on the banks of the Auvézère river
The banks of the Auvézère may not be home to châteaux like those on the Dordogne, or prehistoric sites like those on the Vézère, but they are not without interest. In fact, the strong current of the Auvézère has favoured the installation of water mills, once necessary for industrial activity. A vestige of this industrial history in the Dordogne, the Forge de Savignac Lédrier is a listed historic monument and can now be visited. The recently renovated blast furnaces at Cubjac are another reminder of this era, and are also well worth a visit.
Camping holidays in the Périgord Vert near the Auvézère valley
The natural setting of the Auvézère valley is an invitation to camping holidays in Nouvelkle Aquitaine, in the south of France. Near the river Auvézère, you'll find campsites offering pitches for tents, caravans and motorhomes, as well as mobile homes and rental accommodation. Some of these campsites also offer leisure facilities such as a swimming pool. Whether 2-star, 3-star or 4-star, the campsites in the Auvézère valley all have a natural setting that's perfect for holidays in a tent or caravan, or, if you're looking for a little more comfort, in accommodation. All you have to do is find the establishment that suits you best. You're sure to find what you're looking for in the heart of the Périgord Vert, in the Auvézère region, whether it's a 2-star, 3-star or 4-star establishment.
