Autumn Colours: The Best Walks in the Lot and Dordogne Valley

When summer fades into autumn, the Lot and Dordogne Valley transform into a painter’s canvas. The rolling hills glow with warm shades of red and gold, the rivers reflect the softer light of shorter days, and medieval villages take on a quieter, more intimate charm.

Far from the busy summer crowds, this is the perfect season to enjoy peaceful walks, family strolls, or scenic hikes through some of France’s most beautiful landscapes. In this guide, we’ll share our favourite autumn walks in the Lot and Dordogne Valley, along with some practical tips to make the most of your trip.

Why Visit the Lot and Dordogne in Autumn?

Autumn in this region is one of France’s best-kept secrets:

🍁 Stunning fall colours: forests, vineyards, and river valleys glow with seasonal hues.
🚶 Peaceful trails: perfect for a family-friendly walk in the Dordogne Valley or a longer hike.
🏰 Medieval villages in golden light: Rocamadour, Domme, and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie look even more magical in autumn.
🍷 Seasonal flavours: walnuts, truffles, chestnuts, and local wines from Cahors and the Périgord.

👉 If you’re wondering what to do in Dordogne in October, or looking for a quiet autumn getaway in France, this is your answer.

Top Autumn Walks in the Lot and Dordogne Valley

1. Rocamadour and the Alzou Valley (Lot)

≈ 2h30–3h

Perched dramatically on a cliffside, Rocamadour is one of the region’s highlights. In autumn, the atmosphere is even more enchanting, with fewer visitors and mist rising from the valley.

The Alzou Valley trail is a must-do, taking you past old mill ruins, dramatic cliffs, and autumn-coloured forests.

👉 Tip: Start early in the morning for the best chance to see the golden light and mystical fog.

2. Around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Lot)

≈ 2h30–3h

Often listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is spectacular in every season, but autumn adds an extra layer of charm.

The circular walk around the village offers incredible views of the Lot River, surrounded by fiery-coloured hillsides.

👉 Don’t miss the towpath walk along the river, where you’ll find ancient carvings in the rock face.

3. The Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac (Dordogne Valley)

≈ 1h30–2h

These famous gardens near Vézac are beautiful year-round, but autumn makes them especially magical. The clipped box hedges, peaceful walkways, and sweeping views of the Dordogne Valley are unforgettable when framed by fall colours.

👉 Perfect for families: Marqueyssac offers easy paths, picnic spots, and children’s activities during school holidays.

4. Domme and Its Panoramas (Dordogne)

≈ 45 min–1h

The hilltop village of Domme offers one of the most breathtaking views in France. In autumn, the Dordogne Valley below glows with golden vineyards and colourful forests.

👉 After your walk, explore Domme’s cobbled streets and enjoy a glass of Cahors wine with local walnuts – the perfect taste of Dordogne in autumn.

5. The Braunhie Forest (Lot)

≈ 1h30–3h

Located in the Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park, the Braunhie Forest is a peaceful spot for a family autumn walk. The woodland paths, covered in leaves, feel almost magical in the crisp autumn air.

👉 Wildlife lovers: keep an eye out for deer and migrating birds.

Practical Tips for Autumn Walks

Wear good walking shoes: trails can be slippery with fallen leaves.
Dress in layers: mornings are cool, afternoons often mild.
Bring a torch or headlamp: daylight fades earlier in autumn.
Visit local markets: combine your walk with seasonal treats like walnuts, truffles, cheeses, and local wines.

Conclusion

Autumn is perhaps the most poetic season to explore the Lot and Dordogne Valley. From medieval villages glowing in golden light to peaceful woodland trails, every walk feels like a step into a painting.

🍁 Our campsite closes in October, but we reopen in May – the perfect base for exploring these trails in spring and summer.
👉 Book your stay now for 2026 and start planning your next adventure in the heart of the Dordogne Valley!