Abjat-Sur-Bandiat: Hiking Trails, Nature and Heritage

Abjat-Sur-Bandiat is located in the heart of the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. The Bandiat flows through the village amid rocks, cascades and weirs. The landscape also features granite bedrock and oak and chestnut forests. The river, rocks and forest thus offer different themes for a stay. Those who enjoy the outdoors can choose between circular trails, the river and the village centre, which has been laid out for visitors.

Plan your hikes by time required

All three circular trails start at the Tourist Information Office, but differ considerably in distance and estimated duration:

• Circular trail No. 1 is 6 kilometres long and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Circular trail No. 2 covers 10 kilometres, takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and crosses the Bandiat.
• Circular trail No. 5, “La Grande Verte”, is 26 kilometres long and takes about 6 hours and 30 minutes.

No. 1 is the shortest of the three routes. No. 2 falls between the other two in both distance and estimated time; crossing the Bandiat is specifically part of this route. At 26 kilometres and around 6 hours and 30 minutes, “La Grande Verte” is the longest option. These details help you estimate how much time you will need without rating the routes by difficulty. Trail information may be updated; check the details before setting out.

Local history and heritage

The Église Saint-André was listed as a historic monument by decree on 27 January 1994. The bilingual walk “L’istòria e sos ressons d’Ajac de Bandiat” offers another way to explore the village’s history. It takes you through local history and heritage in Occitan and French. This is another way to discover Abjat-Sur-Bandiat through its linguistic and historical heritage.

The Rocher druidique is considered a monument that was probably used for religious purposes and a testament to the commune’s most distant past. Abjat-Sur-Bandiat is also home to historic wells, springs and wash houses. The Jardin des Légendes offers an unusual stroll through the landscaped village centre. The church, the walk, the historic water features and the garden each represent a different aspect of the local heritage.

Workshop, river and local treat

The 2020 edition of the PNR craft guide lists Rudy Sculpteur in Chachat as a workshop and exhibition venue. Visits to the workshop, sales, exhibitions, demonstrations, classes and workshops were available by prior arrangement. If you are interested in any of these, arrange your visit in advance.

Fishing is possible on the Bandiat in Abjat-Sur-Bandiat. Local fishing regulations may apply, so check the rules before fishing. L’Insolite, a crêperie, is located in the village district of Le Bourg. If you plan to visit, check the opening hours in advance.

Discover more destinations: Anlhiac, Saint-Pardoux-La-Rivière, Saint-Pancrace, Bouteilles-Saint-Sébastien, Champs-Romain, Coubjours, Sarlande, Nabirat.

For the regional travel overview: Dordogne.