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Visiting Sarlat, Souillac, and the Lacave Caves: A One-Day Itinerary Between Périgord and Quercy

Want to explore two of the most beautiful regions in southwestern France in a single day? This itinerary takes you to three iconic sites located between the Périgord Noir and Quercy: the medieval town of Sarlat, the historic town of Souillac, and the fascinating Lacave Caves. An excursion rich in heritage, gastronomy, and natural landscapes—the perfect way to round out your stay in the Lot.

From Les Hauts de Sauliès, head first to Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its cobblestone streets, Renaissance mansions, lively squares, and famous market offer a unique immersion in the history of the Périgord. Stroll through the old town, explore the covered market housed in the former Sainte-Marie Church designed by Jean Nouvel, admire the elegant facades of pale stone, and let yourself be charmed by the incomparable atmosphere for which Sarlat is renowned.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Souillac, an ancient monastic town built on the banks of the Dordogne. Its exceptional Romanesque abbey church, historic center, and the Louis-Vicat Bridge—the first concrete bridge in history—bear witness to a heritage that is as rich as it is little-known. It’s also a pleasant stop to experience the Quercy way of life before continuing your excursion.

The day ends with a visit to one of the most beautiful underground sites in Quercy: the Lacave Caves. After a unique ride on a small electric train, the guided tour takes you into the heart of a spectacular mineral world featuring a succession of monumental chambers, limestone formations, fossil rivers, and stunning light effects. Designated as part of the UNESCO Global Geopark of the Causses du Quercy, they offer a fascinating natural spectacle that amazes adults and children alike.

This itinerary strikes the perfect balance between medieval heritage, Romanesque architecture, geological discoveries, and regional cuisine. It will appeal to lovers of culture, photography, nature, and charming villages, while offering the chance to explore two iconic regions of Occitanie and the Dordogne.

Practical Information

  • Sarlat – 1 hour and 10 minutes
  • Souillac – 33 minutes
  • Lacave Cave – 14 minutes
  • Back to Les Hauts de Sauliès – 53 minutes

Map of the route

The Day’s Schedule

Sarlat – Travel time: 1 hr 10 min

Located on the border between Quercy and Périgord, Sarlat-la-Canéda is a veritable living museum, renowned for its exceptional medieval and Renaissance heritage. Its cobblestone streets, shaded squares, and mansions with slate roofs form an architectural ensemble of rare harmony, a testament to its prosperity from the 13th to the 16th century.

Sainte-Marie Church and the Covered Market in Sarlat

In the heart of the medieval town of Sarlat, the former Sainte-Marie Church (12th century) now houses the covered market, designed by architect Jean Nouvel in 2001. This iconic venue, blending ancient stone, steel, and glass, showcases the finest products of the Périgord region beneath its immense, monumental doors. Its panoramic glass bell tower offers a 360° view of Sarlat’s slate-roofed houses and picturesque narrow streets—a must-see attraction.
Hours: April through October from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. — from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. during peak season

Gisson Manor

Located on Place des Oies, the Manoir de Gisson is a superb example of an aristocratic residence in the Périgord Noir. Comprising two main buildings connected by a hexagonal tower, it offers a glimpse into the lives of Sarlat’s notable figures through its salons, cabinet of curiosities, vaulted cellars, and period furnishings. The tour offers a refined immersion into the 17th-century way of life.
Hours: April through October, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Puymartin Castle

A few kilometers from Sarlat, the Château de Puymartin has overlooked the valley since the 13th century. This enchanting castle, restored in the 19th century, blends history and legend: it is home to the tale of the White Lady, the wandering spirit of the place. Antique furniture, tapestries, paintings, and elegant architecture make it a jewel of the Périgord’s cultural heritage, worth visiting as much for its charm as for its mystery.
Hours: April through October, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Lively shopping street in the historic center of Sarlat la Canéda, stone houses and terraces
Sarlat la Canéda's medieval street lined with stone houses and traditional shops
Cobbled square in the historic center of Sarlat la Canéda surrounded by medieval stone houses

Souillac – Travel time: 33 min

Located at the crossroads of the Paris–Toulouse routes and the Dordogne and Borrèze rivers, Souillac owes its growth to the Benedictine monks who founded a priory there in the 10th century. Over the centuries, the town has evolved into a commercial and riverine hub, combining medieval charm, Romanesque heritage, and a relaxed way of life. Its lively narrow streets, market, and summer festivals now make it an unmissable stop in the Lot region.

St. Mary’s Abbey Church

A masterpiece of 12th-century Romanesque art, the Abbey Church of Sainte-Marie impresses with its pendentive domes, its radiating chapels, and its famous dancing Prophet Isaiah, sculpted with unparalleled grace. Inside, frescoes, wrought-iron grilles, and works of art (including Chassériau’s *Christ on the Mount of Olives*) enrich the visit. The 17th-century cloister and the former monastic buildings bear witness to Souillac’s religious significance.
Hours: Free admission from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Guided tours from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. (except Sundays)

Rue de la Halle and the Old Town

Once a major shopping street connecting the city gates, Rue de la Halle is lined with medieval houses and Renaissance mansions, such as the 15th-century house with its lintel carved with seashells. Traces of inns, workshops, and convents can still be found here, bearing witness to a rich history of craftsmanship and trade.

Louis Vicat Bridge

Built in 1824 by engineer Louis Vicat, this monumental bridge is the first concrete bridge in history. It marks a major milestone in the history of engineering and symbolizes Souillac’s embrace of modernity. From the bridge, the view of the Dordogne River and the rooftops of the old town is particularly picturesque.

Lacave Cave – Travel time: 14 min

Discovered in 1905 by speleologist Armand Viré, the Lacave Caves offer a fascinating underground spectacle. The adventure begins aboard a small electric train that climbs 400 meters into the rock to take you to the heart of the hill. This is followed by a 1-hour-and-20-minute guided walking tour through 12 enchanting chambers and more than 150 million years of geological history.


One spectacular formation follows another: the Hall of Chaos, the Tarasque, the Hall of Organs, and the majestic Notre-Dame de Lacave, before reaching the highlight of the tour—the Hall of Wonders. Across 2,000 m², black light reveals phosphorescent formations, offering a magical glimpse into the underground world. Designated a UNESCO Global Geopark, the caves make up the largest accessible network in the Causses du Quercy—a wonder at every step.
It is recommended that you wear warm clothing (13°) and a raincoat in case of rain (the tour takes place in a humid environment). Hours: April through October from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Open all day from August 1 through 24.

Back to Les Hauts de Sauliès – Travel time: 53 min

💡Our tip

If your itinerary allows, try to visit on a Wednesday or Saturday to fully enjoy the Sarlat market, one of the most famous in the Périgord. Start your day early in the morning to explore the old town before the crowds arrive. After a lunch break in Souillac, continue on to the Lacave Caves in the middle of the afternoon. Since the temperature there remains constant (around 13 °C), be sure to bring a warm jacket, even in the middle of summer. Finally, if you enjoy photography, don’t miss the panoramic view of the Dordogne at sunset on your way back to Les Hauts de Sauliès.

FAQ

How much time should I allow for this itinerary?

A full day is ideal for visiting Sarlat, Souillac, and the Lacave Caves at a leisurely pace.

What’s the best day to visit Sarlat?

Wednesdays and Saturdays are particularly popular thanks to Sarlat’s famous market, which brings together many local producers.

Do I need to make a reservation for the Lacave Caves?

Yes, especially during school breaks and the peak summer season.

What is the temperature in the Lacave Caves?

The temperature is constant, around 13 °C. Warm clothing is recommended year-round.

Can you explore Sarlat on foot?

Yes. The historic center is entirely pedestrian-only and can easily be explored in a few hours.

Where can we have lunch during this excursion?

Sarlat and Souillac offer many restaurants featuring specialties from the Périgord and Quercy regions.

Extend the experience from Les Hauts de Sauliès

Our prime location, at the crossroads of the Lot, the Dordogne, and the Périgord Noir, makes it easy for you to explore the region’s top tourist attractions without having to change accommodations. After a day spent exploring medieval towns, Romanesque heritage, and underground wonders, return to the tranquility of Les Hauts de Sauliès before continuing your trip to Rocamadour, the Gouffre de Padirac, Cahors, or Saint-Cirq-Lapopie—all thanks to our exclusive itineraries designed to help you discover the most beautiful landscapes of Quercy and Périgord.

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