Saint-Cybranet

Discover the Céou valley: nature, river and villages of the Périgiord Noir 

Written by Alizé
June 13. 2025
Discover the Céou valley: nature, river and villages of the Périgiord Noir 

The Céou Valley, a treasure of the Périgord Noir, invites you to unwind to the soothing rhythm of the river and its verdant landscapes.
Far from the hustle and bustle, the Slow Village of this unspoilt region promises authentic discoveries for families and couples in search of natural surroundings, refreshing swims and inspiring walks.
Our open-air hotel in Saint-Cybranet invites you to slow down, to savor the moment in an environment where time seems suspended.

The Céou Valley at a glance

Location

Located in southern Périgord Noir, between the Dordogne and Lot rivers.

Ideal for : Lovers of nature and heritage.

 

Heritage

Small villages with character (Daglan, Saint-Cybranet), nearby castles (Castelnaud, Beynac).

Ideal for: History buffs and lovers of fine buildings.

 

Atmosphere

Wild, intimate, unspoilt. A more peaceful alternative to the Dordogne valley.

Ideal for: Thoseseeking calm, authenticity and a "slow life

Flagship activities

Hiking, biking (V91 cycle route), swimming, local visits, local markets

Ideal for : Active and contemplative vacations, a green getaway.

Céou River

Calm, clean water, clear waves. Water quality monitored (ARS Nouvelle-Aquitaine)

Ideal for:A baignade en famille, canoë en douceur, pêche

 

A wild, unspoilt valley between the Dordogne and the Lot

The green Céou valley winds for 55 km before joining the Dordogne. This tributary rises in the Lot, near the Abbey Nouvelle, and flows through unspoilt natural landscapes. The Agence de l'Eau Adour-Garonne (Adour-Garonne water agency) ensures the quality of its waters, ideal for aquatic activities. A Périgord secret for a confidential form of discovery.

A peaceful current for swimming or canoeing

The Céou, with its clear, often shallow waves, is ideal for families. In summer, its shady banks and pebbled beaches are cool havens. Canoeing in the Céou valley is a gentle and contemplative activity, perfect for observing the flora and fauna. Glide along the water's edge, lulled by the lapping of the paddle and the song of the birds: a sensory immersion. Fishing in the Céou valley is also a popular activity with connoisseurs.

Walks and bike rides along the Céou river

Hikers in the Céou valley will appreciate the many signposted trails through wooded hills and flower-filled meadows, offering changing views. For cyclists, the V91 cycle route, on a former railroad line, is a safe route along a large part of the Céou valley. Ideal for exploring the region at your own pace. The Fédération Française de Cyclotourisme3recognizes the quality of the facilities in Dordogne-Périgord.

Typical towns and discreet heritage

The heritage of the Céou valley is charmingly revealed. Away from the hustle and bustle of visitors, authentic hamlets like Daglan and Saint-Cybranet line the banks of the river. They recount a rural history and a simple art of living. Romanesque churches, small masonry bridges and ancient washhouses bear witness to this rich past.

Book accommodation in the Céou Valley

In the heart of the Périgord Noir region, Le Slow Village de Saint-Cybranet is the only open-air hotel with direct access to the Céou river and a landscaped beach. It embodies slow travel: back to basics and respect for the environment. The concept of open-air hotel vacations in the Céou valley becomes eco-responsible and refined. The Clef Verte label attests to this commitment.

Saint-Cybranet
Cottage Premium 1bed.

Ideal for recharging your batteries, this cottage for two invites you to enjoy a moment of relaxation in a soothing setting.

18 m²
1 bdrm
2 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Cottage Signature 2bed.

Enjoy a fully-equipped, top-of-the-range 2-bedroom wooden cottage. The ideal accommodation for your family vacation in a green setting!

34 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
2 bathrooms.
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Tente Lodge Insolite 2ch.

The art of camping in harmony with nature, with all the comforts you need! Discover this unusual accommodation in the heart of Périgord Noir.

20.25 m²
2 bdrms
5 pers.
Shared sanitary facilities
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Tiny House 2bed.

A stay in a Tiny House; a stay between minimalism and comfort. Discover this unusual accommodation in the heart of Périgord Noir.

22 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
Saint-Cybranet
Tiny House Slow Box 2ch.

A stay in a Tiny House; a stay between minimalism and comfort. Discover this unusual accommodation in the heart of Périgord Noir.

26 m²
2 bdrms
4 pers.
1 bathroom.
Discover
 

What to do in the Céou Valley

The Céou Valley offers a wealth of opportunities for rejuvenation and authentic experiences. Its varied activities are for everyone.

Swimming in the Céou: beaches, access, advice

Enjoy swimming in the Céou thanks to several access points. Natural beaches can be found near Saint-Cybranet and Daglan, with waves that are often shallow and of controlled quality. Choose supervised areas or ask local people for advice on quiet spots. Water shoes recommended on pebbles.

Hiking in the woods and meadows of southern Périgord

Explore the Céou valley on foot via numerous signposted trails(PDIPR Dordogne). The Bouzic and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle loops (view of the confluence) are particularly popular. Bring a map of the Céou valley for your adventure!

Discover Saint-Cybranet, Daglan, Bouzic or Castels

  • Saint-Cybranet: gateway to the Céou valley, appreciated for its bridge, church and proximity to the river.
  • Daglan: Renowned for its dry rock architecture and market, Daglan is a charming little town.
  • Bouzic: small perched village with beautiful views over the surrounding countryside.
  • Castels (and Castelnaud-la-Chapelle): Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, on the Dordogne near the mouth of the Céou, is a must-see for its fortified castle (Hundred Years War) and its museum of warfare in the Middle Ages.

Enjoy markets, local produce and green breaks

Local markets are an institution. The one in Daglan (Sunday mornings in season) is renowned for its producers. Taste walnuts, truffles, foies gras, cheeses... The Céou Valley is also a gastronomic journey, with many authentic gîtes and restaurants.

Sleeping on the banks of the Céou: an immersion in nature
For a peaceful immersion, choose accommodation in the Céou valley on the banks of the river. Live to the rhythm of the environment, from the murmur of the waves to the song of the birds.

FAQ - Everything you need to know to visit the Céou Valley

Where to swim in the Céou?

Beaches and natural accesses along the Céou, notably at Saint-Cybranet (direct access to Slow Village Périgord) and Daglan. Clear, shallow water.

Can you canoe or paddle in the Céou valley?

Yes, the calm Céou is ideal for a gentle introduction to canoeing in the Céou valley or paddling. There are several rental companies.

Which villages to visit in the valley?

In the heart: Saint-Cybranet, Daglan, Bouzic. Nearby: Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac (Plus Beaux Villages de France) in the Dordogne valley.

Is there a bike path in the Céou valley?

Yes, the V91 cycle route ("véloroute vallée du Céou") runs alongside the tributary (former railroad line). Ideal for family cycling in the Céou valley.

Where's the best place to camp?

Slow Village Saint-Cybranet in Périgord Noir: direct access to the Céou, natural setting, sustainable approach. A unique outdoor relaxation experience in the Céou valley.

Can you spend a family vacation with children in the Céou Valley?

Absolutely. The Céou valley is perfect for families: calm current, outdoor activities (swimming, biking, hiking), safe atmosphere.

How do I get to Saint-Cybranet or Slow Village in the Périgord?

Saint-Cybranet is accessible by car (20 min from Sarlat), close to the Dordogne axes. Railway stations: Sarlat, Gourdon (Lot). View a map of the Céou valley.

Discover the Céou Valley

Saint-Cybranet

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