Limeuil, Perigord Pourpre
A pretty hill top village where the Dordogne river meets the Vézère river
Limeuil is a picturesque old village which features on the list of 'Les Plus Beaux Villages de France'. It has a pretty park on the top of the hill and some ruins from its medieval past.
Sitting at a point where the Vézère meets the Dordogne and on a bend in the river known as a 'cingle', this is certainly one of the jewels of the Perigord. Its artisans and craftsmen, panoramic gardens, riverside setting, and natural beauty offer you a holiday destination of exceptional wealth. Plus it's a good spot to hire a canoe for a gentle paddle along the river.
Much like its neighbours, Tremolat and Le Bugue, this is on the less travelled tourist trail but holds the same charm and interest as La Roque Gageac. From one side of the village you can park and do the circular tour via a short and steep forest path which brings you directly to the top and the jardins panoramique. The narrow streets that then wind their way back down to the river are incredibly pretty and offer up a few choice locations for stopping off for a snack and some lovely boutiques.
The tourist office sits at the bottom next to the Mairie (town hall).
There is also a small beach in Limeuil! A great place for some family fun and to cool down on a hot summer day.
Jump to
History & Culture in Limeuil
Limeuil has lived through several horrors over the centuries, including the Viking invasions and the Hundred Years’ War.
Today only three fortified gates are left to bear witness to those times and to its medieval past as a bastide. Once a bustling river port, the village with its stone-built, dark-tiled houses is very typical of the Périgord Noir area. and makes it a charming, refreshing place in which to stop.
Sights & Attractions in Limeuil
The one outstanding feature of this village are the panoramic gardens. Offering spectacular views and wonderful insight into plant life, from both the local area and worldwide, with substantial influence from Spanish and Moorish gardens.
Sights in Limeuil
See all Sights in Limeuil-
Gouffre de Proumeyssac, Le Bugue
The largest cave in the Périgord region, close to the pretty and tranquil town of Le Bugue. Proumeyssac has a vast subterranean grotto reaching 40 metres in height.
-
Les Jardins Panoramiques, Limeuil
This beautiful and vast area has been split into themed garden areas, with interpretive trails running through them to both educate and add to the enjoyment of visitors.
-
Grotte Bara-Bahau, Le Bugue
The southernmost of all the caves of the Vézère valley, Bara-Bahau was classified as an historic monument in 1961.
-
Eglise Saint Hilaire, Tremolat
This church in very bad condition after the war, and so it was lovingly restored in the 1950s by the locals of the town who were very attached to its heritage.
-
Eglise Saint Nicolas, Tremolat
Trémolat's first church was built in the 9th century and now today all that remains of the original work are two arches, north and south of the nave at the intersection of the transept.
-
Abbaye de Cadouin Abbey, Le Buisson-de-Cadouin
Founded by Gérard de Salles in 1115, and affiliated to the Cistercians, the Cadouin Abbey is an incredibly well-preserved example of religious architecture.
Dining in Limeuil
Restaurants in Limeuil
See all Restaurants in Limeuil-
Le Vieux Logis Restaurant, Tremolat
Stone walls, high ceilings, charming surroundings and elegant table settings lure you into the restaurant, with precise modern day interpretations of classic regional food, made from the finest local produce.
-
La Metairie Restaurant, Mauzac
Set in the hotel's 19th Century building, the dining room has wonderful stone walls and comforting, traditional table settings. Weather permitting, you may be able to relish your meal outside on the flowery terrace overlooking the lush garden or even down by the pool.
-
L'Auberge Medievale Restaurant, Audrix
The young chef at this restaurant, David Beyney, produces creative French cuisine using local products. It is a real gem of a restaurant, located high in the Périgord village of Audrix. There is also a small attractive hotel attached.
-
Bistrot de la Place Restaurant, Tremolat
Located 50 yards from the Vieux Logis Hotel, the Bistrot de la Place has exposed wooden beams, simple yet effective place settings and makes you feel immediately comfortable in the fuss free, cosy setting in the centre of Trèmolat.
Events in Limeuil
Events in Dordogne
See all Events in Dordogne-
European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Dordogne, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
-
Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion
The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.
-
Ban des Vendanges, Jurade de Saint Emilion
The Autumn festival in Saint-Emilion celebrates the wine and heritage of this medieval city. The 'Jurade' are the Saint-Emilion wine brotherhood who historically had administrative rights over the town. As part of the festival they parade through the town in their traditional crimson robes, reminiscent of the all-powerful aldermen of centuries past.
-
Rassemblement Européen de Montgolfieres, Rocamadour
A hot air balloon fiesta in Rocamadour in late September. This gathering of European hot air balloons forms a stunning sight against the backdrop of the pilgrimage town of Rocamadour.
-
Sauternes and Barsac Chateaux open day wine tasting
At the beginning of November, the Sauternes and Barsac Châteaux opens its doors for a weekend in which more than 50 estates welcome the public to sample their wines.
Things to do in Limeuil
Whilst Limeuil is a place of peace and tranquillity to be enjoyed at a slow pace, there is still plenty to do here. The river beach offers a pleasant place to cool off and to relax.
Hiring a canoe is probably one of the most popular past times and a great way to see a little more of the area without too much effort. What could be better than paddling along the river, stopping for a picnic and enjoying the nature that surrounds you.
Things To Do in Limeuil
See all Things To Do in Limeuil-
Aquarium du Perigord Noir, Le Bugue
A great place for a family day out and to escape the pre-historic world of the Dordogne...instead, enjoy the family atmosphere and displays of this fresh water aquarium.
-
Canoes Rivieres Loisirs, Limeuil
With family, in a group, with friends and at any age, you can explore at your own pace two of the most beautiful rivers of Périgord.
-
Domaine des Eymaries Horse Riding, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac
Experience the beautiful Vezere valley and its prehistoric sites on horse back.
-
CANOEric, Le Bugue
Easy canoeing for everybody. You can navigate with family or friends in peace. You’ll be given a solid equipment, stable canoes and buoyancy aids.
-
Le Bournat - Living History Museum, Le Bugue
A living museum that offers much more than your ordinary museum or theme park. A great day out that will take you and your family back in time to an era long ago.
Cycling in Limeuil
Cycling Routes in Dordogne
See all Cycling Routes in Dordogne-
Greenway (Voie Verte) of Lalinde Canal, Lalinde
This short stretch of Voie Verte (greenway) is perfect for families looking to stretch their legs in the Dordogne countryside, without having to conquer any hills climbs.
-
Old Railway Greenway (Voie Verte) Route, Sarlat-la-Caneda
This Voie Verte (greenway) has been created along the track of an old and now unused railway line.
-
La Voie Verte, Perigueux
A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).
-
Circular route between Ouysse & Causse, Rocamadour
Although just 25km this circular route from Rocamadour does cross some challenging terrain. Partly on river path and some parts on road, you will need to have some experience of cycling to enjoy this route fully.
Hiking in Limeuil
Walking Routes in Dordogne
See all Walking Routes in Dordogne-
Font-Blanque Loop, Lalinde
Following part of the GR6 route through the Dordogne this walk takes you from Lalinde on a circular route through the surrounding countryside.
-
La Voie Verte, Perigueux
A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).
-
A Short Walk up Mont Saint Cyr, Cahors
With stunning views over the Lot river and the town of Cahors this walk is worth it just to enjoy the views.
-
Cirque d'Autoire circular route, Autoire
This walk is wonderful and relaxing way to explore the valley of Autoire and the horseshoe shaped cliff band that guards it to the south-west.
-
Chemin de Halage
Part of a long distance towpath, there is an interesting section cut out of the rocky cliff face between Bouziès and Saint-Cirq Lapopie which was used to drag barges along the river Lot. It's about five kilometres between the two villages and is a stunning section of the river.
Watersports in Limeuil
Watersports in Limeuil
See all Watersports in Limeuil-
CANOEric, Le Bugue
Easy canoeing for everybody. You can navigate with family or friends in peace. You’ll be given a solid equipment, stable canoes and buoyancy aids.
-
Canoes Rivieres Loisirs, Limeuil
With family, in a group, with friends and at any age, you can explore at your own pace two of the most beautiful rivers of Périgord.
Families in Limeuil
Villas in Limeuil
Villas in Limeuil
See all Villas in Limeuil-
Le Mas Villa
Renovated 16th century farmhouse in Dordogne.
-
La Cloche Villa, Prats-du-périgor
Surrounded by a patchwork of fields and forests in the picturesque Perigord Noir area, the charming village of Prats-du-Perigord, with its honey coloured stone buildings topped with pitched roofs of deep red tiles, is most typical of the region.
Price: £1,234
-
La Croix Villa, Prats-du-Périgord
This recently renovated semi-detached stone village house is a delightful addition to our collection of properties in the picturesque Dordogne region. Situated along one of the narrow lanes in the village of Prats-du-Périgord, La Croix is a restoration that blends the traditional with the contemporary to great effect.
Price: £1,298
Hotels in Limeuil
Hotels in Limeuil
See all Hotels in Limeuil-
Bon Encontre Hotel, Sarlat-la-Caneda
Located just a 5 minute walk from the centre of Dordogne's capital Sarlat, the hotel has minimalist, comfortable rooms with a large en suit, flat-screen TV and free Wifi. Located in the grounds is also a hugely inviting swimming pool.
-
La Chartreuse du Bignac Hotel, St Nexans
The property is set a short distance from the centre of Bergerac, with 360 degree views of the surrounding vineyards. There are 12 hectares of grounds with 12 uniquely decorated rooms to choose from.
-
La Maison des Peyrat Hotel, Sarlat-la-Caneda
With parts of the building dating back to the 14th Century, there is no surprise that the building itself acts as a focal point throughout the property. With stone walls and ancient wooden beams being left exposed, the place really feels as though there are stories to be told while sitting out in its large gardens, laced with nut trees and springs.
-
Manoir de la Malartrie, Vezac
Offering a magnificent view of one of the most beautiful villages in France, the 19th century Manoir de la Malartrie is beautifully decorated inside, using antique furnishings and sleek wooden finishes.
-
La Hoirie Hotel, Sarlat-la-Caneda
A truly historical building, the hotel has been meticulously converted into something unique and modern, but doesn't shy away from its heritage with stone walls and masterpiece fireplaces.
-
Chateau les Merles, Mouleydier
This château has been now transformed into a contemporary, stylish and modern comfort hotel with 12 rooms, two suites and a spacious apartment. The contrast with the original architecture and the modern touch makes Les Merles a luxurious, charming and attractive hotel whilst still retaining an intimate, friendly and cosy atmosphere. Within the grounds, there is a spa, golf course, tennis courts and a swimming pool.
Campsites in Limeuil
Property For Sale in Limeuil
Property for Sale in Limeuil
See all Property for Sale in Limeuil-
Paunat House, Tremolat - Ref.2014
Perigord authentic house with about 160m2 living space surrounded by a lovely garden and orchard of 1600m2.
Price: €249,000