Carlux: Discover Historic Sites and Trails

Carlux combines historic sites with opportunities for outdoor activities. When planning your stay, you can choose from sightseeing, hiking trails and water activities. Those interested in architecture and history will find several buildings from different centuries in the village; those who would rather be on the move can explore hiking and cycling routes, as well as the Boucle de Carlux.

Historic Buildings and Exhibitions

On the Carlux discovery trail, you’ll come across three notable landmarks from the village’s history. These include a Gothic fireplace dating from the 14th century. The Church of Sainte Catherine dates from the 14th and 15th centuries. The market hall is also a stop along the trail: it was built in the 19th century and has a remarkable timber structure. Together, these buildings invite you to notice the different periods of construction and craftsmanship on a walking tour.

The present state of preservation and heritage protection are central to the Château de Carlux. Ruins remain from the complex. The château is protected as a historic monument in France; its current designation as a Monument historique dates from December 7, 2022. The ruins and protected status make the château a distinct subject of historical interest, separate from the preserved buildings on the discovery trail.

The Gare Robert Doisneau offers a different cultural focus. It is a museum of photography and film, and the only permanent exhibition venue in France dedicated to Robert Doisneau. Admission is free, and the Gare is open year-round. Since visitor information may change, it is advisable to check before you travel.

Les Jardins de Cadiot also offer a distinctive focus: the gardens cover two hectares of terraced grounds, with ten themed areas and exhibitions of contemporary sculpture. They are managed according to the principles of permaculture and are strongly committed to protecting biodiversity. Gardening, sculpture and biodiversity therefore feature side by side here, without the site being limited to a single theme.

Hiking Trails, Cycling Route and Outdoor Activities

The long-distance GR6 trail and numerous other hiking trails pass through Carlux. The Boucle de Carlux is an easy, 6.0-kilometre circular walk that takes about two hours. It is described as a walking route with cultural, historical and nature-focused highlights. This gives you a specific way to combine a walk with themes that also feature at the village’s historic sites.

The Boucle begins at the car park on Place des Platanes and follows the D61 towards Saint-Julien-de-Lampon and the château. When planning, both the stated walking time and the route length are helpful; the time given is approximate. Practical route details may change, so check the latest information before setting out. The Sarlat–Cazoulès green cycling route also passes through the commune of Carlux. It is a separate option for cyclists and should not be confused with the walking route.

Other outdoor activities are also available: in Carlux, you can go canoeing on the Dordogne. The village’s beaches are suitable for relaxing and swimming. Alongside hiking, water activities are therefore a distinct option. Which of these shapes your stay depends on whether you want to spend time on trails, at cultural sites or by the water.

Discover more destinations: Cause-De-Clérans, Allas-Les-Mines, Gabillou, Coulounieix-Chamiers, Bertric-Burée, Loubès-Bernac, Berbiguières, Orliaguet.

For the main travel overview: Dordogne.