Discover Souillac

When choosing a hotel in Souillac, it is worth first deciding what you would like to focus on during your trip: architectural history and art, walking routes, or the market and activities on the Dordogne. The sights and excursions offer different ways to spend your time here.

Churches, Bell Tower and Art

The Abbatiale Sainte-Marie is a 12th-century church with Byzantine-style domes. One of its notable historical features is a listed organ dating from 1845. The religious site also has a long history: the foundation of the priory, or deanery, of Sainte-Marie in Souillac is believed to date back to 909.

The Beffroi Saint-Martin was placed under protection by a decree dated 22 April 1925. Since 2017, its nave has hosted a contemporary art exhibition every autumn, in October and November, as part of the “Résurgence” festival. If you would like to give your trip a cultural focus, these two places bring together different themes: the architecture and history of the abbey church, and the annual art exhibition in the bell tower.

Choose Walking Routes by Time and Distance

The Circuit découverte de Souillac starts at the Plaine des Jeux. The circular route is more than six kilometres long, takes about three hours, and is suitable for families and pushchairs. Another option is the Circuit des Viaducs: this circular route runs along the outskirts of Souillac, covers 12.5 kilometres and takes about three and a half hours. The estimated walking times are fairly similar, but the routes differ in length. When planning, compare both figures rather than looking only at the duration.

For a longer stage, consider the Chemin d’Amadour. Its section in the Lot ends with the Souillac–Rocamadour stage. This is about 25 kilometres long and can be walked in one day or spread over two days at a more leisurely pace. As distance and duration may depend on route conditions, check route and access information before setting out.

The Cazoulès–Sarlat Greenway is also accessible via Souillac. The 24-kilometre route connects Sarlat with Cazoulès, which is three kilometres from Souillac. It offers another way to combine a stay with a longer walk.

Water Park, Guided Tour and the Dordogne

Quercyland is a water park in Souillac with five swimming pools, water slides, a high ropes course and inflatable play equipment. Check the seasonal opening hours before visiting so you can plan around the relevant dates.

On the “Les Mystères de la Ville” tour, Petit Pierre, a young boatman, accompanies visitors on an approximately one-and-a-half-hour exploration of life on the Dordogne, Souillac and its trades. The tour is suitable for children aged six and over. Check in advance whether it is offered on your chosen date and what booking conditions apply.

For an activity on the water, you can take a canoe trip on the Dordogne from Souillac with Copeyre. Alongside walking routes and cultural activities, this gives you the option of exploring the river.

Market and Local Craft History

Souillac’s traditional market and fair take place every Friday morning from 8 a.m. to 12 noon in the old town centre. If the market is part of your travel plans, Friday morning is the time to visit.

Maison Louis Roque has maintained its artisanal skills in Souillac since 1905; Vieille Prune is its speciality. The Maison’s museum offers a free, self-guided tour of the history of the house and its traditional craft. You can plan a visit to learn about a local producer’s history and a trip to the market as separate stops during your stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Nuzéjouls, Saux, Sérignac, Vire-sur-Lot, Puyjourdes, Mauroux, Assier, Cazillac.

For the main travel overview: Lot.