Attractions and Places To See around Souillac - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Souillac include a blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural points of interest. Located in the Lot department of southwestern France, the town is nestled in the Dordogne valley, offering diverse scenery. Visitors can explore medieval architecture, riverine environments, and unique cultural institutions. The region provides opportunities for outdoor activities and historical discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Souillac
- The most popular attractions is Greenway along the Dordogne in Roufillac, a cycle way that offers a beautiful route along the Dordogne river. It provides wonderful views of the Dordogne and an arched bridge.
- Another must-see spot is Old Railway Tunnel, a man-made tunnel. This structure is a remnant of an old railway line, offering a refreshing and unique experience to cycle or walk through.
- Visitors also love Medieval Center of Martel, a historical site. This charming town is known for its medieval towers, cobbled streets, and authentic atmosphere, transporting visitors back in time.
- Souillac is known for its historical sites, cycle ways, and cultural institutions. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from medieval architecture to natural river landscapes and unique museums.
- The attractions around Souillac are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 330 upvotes and 50 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Greenway along the Dordogne in Roufillac
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City camping Le Bourniou
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Medieval Center of Martel
Highlight • Historical Site
Points of interest in Martel: its seven towers, vestiges of a prestigious past. The Tournemire Tower, the Hospital Tower, and the Raymondie Tower are just a few examples, each representing a part of the town's history; the Martel market halls, built in the 13th century, are a symbol of Martel's commercial importance in the medieval period. This vast covered wooden space once hosted fairs and markets.
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Old Railway Tunnel
Highlight • Structure
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La Bicicleta Refreshment Stop
Highlight • Cafe
Accommodation for cyclists, drinks, snacks, bike rental and a place to repair your bike!
Open 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily.
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Souillac
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Other adventures around Souillac
Tips from the Community
The 18th century market hall, with its chestnut wood frame, is an emblematic place in the village
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Beautiful railway cycle path V91, illuminated tunnel with asphalt.
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Railway line cycle path V91; the path at the intersection could be wider. Campsites along the riverbank.
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A few meters near the bridge the cycle path is dangerously narrow.
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I love walking through old railway tunnels and this one is particularly pleasant: a guaranteed refreshing moment! A beautiful structure that is well worth the detour!
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Why Visit Martel? For its well-preserved medieval heritage: Martel offers a fascinating journey into history with its towers, market halls, and narrow streets that seem frozen in time. For its surrounding landscapes: The proximity of the Dordogne River and natural sites like the Padirac Cave and Rocamadour makes Martel an ideal base for exploring this magnificent region. For the unique experience of the little train: Traveling aboard Martel's little train is a memorable adventure that will delight families and railway enthusiasts. Martel, with its medieval charm, historical heritage, and ideal location, is a must-see destination for those wishing to discover the Lot region and its wonders.
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Saint-Maur Church: Gothic Building: Saint-Maur Church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, built between the 13th and 16th centuries. Its massive bell tower and magnificent stained-glass windows are well worth a visit. Elegant Interior: The church's interior is equally impressive, with ornate chapels, sculptures, and murals that bear witness to Martel's religious history. Proximity to Natural and Historical Sites: Dordogne Valley: Martel is ideally located near the Dordogne Valley, offering diverse landscapes of cliffs, rivers, and forests, perfect for hiking or canoeing. Padirac Cave: Just a few kilometers away, the famous Padirac Cave, one of France's most impressive underground wonders, is a must-see for visitors.
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Stone Alleyways and Houses: Townhouses: As you stroll through the alleyways of Martel, you'll discover superb limestone houses, some dating back to the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, adorned with architectural details such as mullioned windows and carved doorways. Authentic Atmosphere: With its narrow, cobbled streets, shaded squares, and fountains, Martel retains a unique medieval charm, offering an immersion into a bygone era. The Little Train of Martel: Tourist Train: One of Martel's main attractions is its little steam train that runs along the old Martel-Saint-Denis-près-Martel railway line. This tourist train travels through spectacular scenery, with magnificent views of the Dordogne Valley and the surrounding cliffs. Unique Experience: This journey through time allows you to discover the natural beauty of the region while appreciating part of its railway heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Souillac?
Souillac is rich in history. The most prominent historical site is the Abbey Sainte-Marie, an impressive Romanesque and Byzantine structure known for its exceptional sculptures. You can also visit the Old Halle, a 19th-century market hall, and the Saint-Martin Church. The town is also known as the "City of Seven Viaducts," with several impressive railway viaducts, including the 19th-century Borrèze Viaduct.
Are there any unique cultural attractions in Souillac?
Yes, Souillac offers unique cultural experiences. You can visit the Musée de l'Automate, which houses one of Europe's largest collections of automated toys and mechanical marionettes. Another interesting stop is the Maison Louis Roque, a distillery perpetuating a family expertise in producing artisanal spirits like the famous "Vieille Prune," where tours and tastings are available.
What natural attractions are there around Souillac?
The Dordogne River flows through Souillac, offering beautiful riverine landscapes. You can enjoy hiking along its banks, boat trips, or watersports. The Parc Delmas, known as the "green lung" of Souillac, provides a peaceful wooded area for relaxation and outdoor activities. The surrounding region features varied landscapes with valleys, cliffs, caves, and limestone plateaus.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do on the Dordogne River?
The Dordogne River provides excellent opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking along its banks, take boat trips, or engage in watersports like canoeing and kayaking, with rental points available in the area. It's also a great spot for swimming.
Are there opportunities for cycling near Souillac?
Absolutely. The area around Souillac is great for cycling. A popular choice is the Greenway along the Dordogne in Roufillac, which offers scenic views. You can also cycle through the Old Railway Tunnel for a unique experience. For more routes, explore the cycling guides around Souillac, which include options like the "Old Railway Tunnel – Sarlat Voie Verte Cycle Path loop".
Where can I go hiking around Souillac?
Souillac is surrounded by numerous hiking trails. You can hike along the banks of the Dordogne River or explore wooded valleys and open ridges that offer magnificent views. The region's rural heritage and 19th-century railway viaducts are often visible from these trails. For specific routes, check out the running and walking guides around Souillac.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Souillac?
Yes, Souillac offers several family-friendly options. The Old Railway Tunnel is a fun and refreshing experience for both walking and cycling. The Parc Delmas has play areas for children and is perfect for family picnics. The Medieval Center of Martel, a short drive away, also offers an engaging historical experience for all ages.
What is the best time to visit Souillac for outdoor activities?
The summer months, particularly July and August, are popular for outdoor activities due to warmer weather, though it can also be the busiest. Spring (April-June) and early autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, often with fewer crowds. The Souillac en Jazz Festival is a significant annual event in July.
Can I visit other medieval towns near Souillac?
Yes, the charming Medieval Center of Martel is a must-see nearby. Known as the "town of seven towers," Martel transports visitors back in time with its cobbled streets, stone houses, and authentic atmosphere. It's an excellent example of medieval architecture and heritage.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Souillac?
Visitors particularly enjoy the scenic beauty of the Greenway along the Dordogne, with its wonderful river views. The unique experience of cycling or walking through the dark, refreshing Old Railway Tunnel is also highly appreciated. The authentic atmosphere and historical charm of the Medieval Center of Martel are also frequently highlighted.
Are there any local markets in Souillac?
Souillac is a traditional market town. A vibrant market is held every Friday morning around the Place de la Halle, offering fresh and locally grown produce. During July and August, there's an additional farmers' market on Wednesday afternoons, providing more opportunities to experience local flavors.
Is there a place to relax or have a refreshment during outdoor activities?
Yes, if you're cycling or exploring the area, La Bicicleta Refreshment Stop is a popular spot. It's a cycling café with a shaded terrace by the river, offering drinks, snacks, bike rental, and even a place to repair your bike. It's open daily and provides a warm atmosphere.
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Most popular attractions around Souillac
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