Along the Dore Panoramic Road Itinerary
Take a journey along the picturesque Dore Panoramic Road, an amazing 216 kilometer route that winds its way through the French countryside from La Bourboule to Argentat sur Dordogne. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most stunning landscapes in the region, including the charming town of Bort les Orgues and the picturesque Neuvic.
The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, be aware that the route may be closed off due to weather conditions during the winter months. The roads are generally in good condition, but some parts of the route can be curvy and narrow.
This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and the winding roads of the Dore Panoramic Road and make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey!
1
number of days
215 km
route length
fair
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
low
accident level
START
La Bourboule
Distance 215 km
Driving time 6.5 h
Pace: slow
49.5 kWh
Airports
CFE
,
MCU
[detailsContainer]
La Bourboule is a charming commune situated in the center of France, in the department of Puy-de-Dôme. It makes an ideal starting point for the journey "Along the Dore Panoramic Road". La Bourboule is nestled in the foothills of the Auvergne Mountains, with many picturesque sights to admire.
The town has a rich history and culture, which can be explored in its numerous historical sites, such as the 19th-century thermal baths, the 19th-century church, and the 17th-century castle. In addition, La Bourboule is home to many cultural and artistic events, such as the annual Jazz Festival and the International Art Fair.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to start the road trip.
La Bourboule also offers many outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and skiing, as well as a variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes. Some of the most interesting sights to visit include the Mont-Dore ski resort, the Château de Montaigut, and the Musée de la Nature et des Sciences.
No matter the reason for your visit, La Bourboule is a great starting point for the road trip "Along the Dore Panoramic Road". Enjoy the spectacular views, explore the rich history and culture, and take part in the many activities available.
1
La Bourboule
- Bort les Orgues
Distance 75 km
Driving time 2.1 h
Pace: slow
17.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from La Bourboule to Bort les Orgues! This scenic drive of 76km will take you fewer than 2 hours to complete. As you drive, you'll be mesmerized by the picturesque landscapes and winding roads. In some sections the road will be narrow, so be sure to drive with caution. Along the way, you'll be able to explore the charming towns of La Bourboule and Bort les Orgues. In La Bourboule, be sure to visit the thermal baths, ski resort, and the historic Casino. In Bort les Orgues, you can explore the beautiful churches and the old castle ruins. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Bort les Orgues - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
2
Bort les Orgues
- Neuvic
Distance 35 km
Driving time 1.0 h
Pace: slow
8.0 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
If you're looking for an exciting road trip, then the 35km drive from Bort les Orgues to Neuvic is a must-do! The journey takes less than an hour and takes you through some stunning scenery. As you drive, keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road. Along the way, you'll find many interesting places to visit, such as the Château de Neuvic, the amazing Grottes de Villars, and the beautiful Lac de Vassivière. Make sure to take a break and enjoy the views of the countryside. There's plenty to explore in this area, so make sure to take your time and savor the experience. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Happy travels!
Neuvic - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
3
Neuvic
- Argentat sur Dordogne
Distance 105 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: slow
24.2 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip through the beautiful region of Neuvic, France and Argentat sur Dordogne, with a total distance of 106 km and less than 3 hours of driving time. On your journey, you will be able to admire the beautiful landscapes of the region and visit some of the most interesting places.
Start your journey in Neuvic and make sure to take a break at the Château de Neuvic, a castle with a long history and a stunning view of the town. Then, drive to the Château de la Marthonie, a castle with a rich and fascinating history. After that, continue your journey to Argentat sur Dordogne and visit the Church of Saint-Pierre and the Church of Notre-Dame.
On your way, pay attention to the scenic roads, the historical sites and the steep ramps. Some sections of the road may be closed seasonally, while other sections may be very winding and narrow.
At the end of your journey, make sure to visit the beautiful Château de Val, a castle with an amazing view of the Dordogne River.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, visit the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Argentat sur Dordogne - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipédia
Argentat sur Dordogne - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
Argentat sur Dordogne
[detailsContainer]
Located in the Corrèze department of the Limousin region of France, the town of Argentat-sur-Dordogne is the perfect ending point for the stunning road trip along the Dore Panoramic Road. The town is situated along the banks of the River Dordogne, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
One of the main attractions in Argentat-sur-Dordogne is the Château de Val, a beautiful medieval castle that offers visitors a chance to explore its many towers and learn about its fascinating history. The town is also home to the Jardin des Plantes, an impressive botanical garden that is the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll and appreciate the beauty of nature.
Another popular attraction in Argentat-sur-Dordogne is the Espace Naturel Régional du Plateau de Millevaches, a protected area of natural beauty. Here visitors can explore the area’s many hiking trails, spot wildlife, and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
For those who are traveling by air, the closest international airport is Brive-Vallée de la Dordogne Airport (BVE) located around 50 km away.
No matter how you choose to explore it, Argentat-sur-Dordogne is the perfect place to end your journey along the Dore Panoramic Road. With its breathtaking views, fascinating history, and abundance of outdoor activities, it is an excellent way to end your road trip in style.
Argentat sur Dordogne - France - Europe - Scenic Drive - Wikipédia
❯
❮
Along the Dore Panoramic Road at a glance
-
Start:
La Bourboule
-
End:
Argentat sur Dordogne
-
Distance:
215 km
-
Stay:
1 day
-
Getting there:
Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport (CFE),
Montluçon-Guéret Airport (MCU)
-
When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September, October
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an exquisite journey along the Dore Panoramic Road, a 216-kilometer stretch that weaves through the idyllic French countryside. This route, starting from La Bourboule and culminating in Argentat sur Dordogne, is a treasure trove of awe-inspiring vistas and storybook villages, offering a quintessential French Road Trip experience.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The Dore Panoramic Road is dotted with must-see destinations, each brimming with its own unique allure. Bort-les-Orgues, with its imposing dam – one of the largest in France – creates a stunning lake that's a haven for water sports enthusiasts. The historic Château de Val, partially submerged by the dam's reservoir, adds a touch of medieval mystique to the landscape. Neuvic, on the other hand, offers tranquility with its picturesque setting and the exquisite Château de Neuvic d'Ussel, a cultural heritage site.
Best Time to Go:
The optimal period to journey along the Dore Panoramic Road is during the summer months. The weather is typically warm and inviting, which allows for the full appreciation of the region's lush greenery, vibrant wildflowers, and the majestic Massif Central mountains that provide a dramatic backdrop to your travels.
Potential Risks:
Winter travel can present challenges, as certain sections of the route may be closed or difficult to navigate due to snowy and icy conditions. It is essential for drivers to remain vigilant on the Road's more winding and narrow stretches, regardless of the season.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
This Scenic Drive is accessible to drivers of all skill levels and offers various accommodations to fit a moderate budget. The quality of the Roads is generally excellent, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable drive. Moreover, the Dore Panoramic Road is part of the larger 'Routes des Villes d'Eaux', which highlights the heritage of spa towns in the region, adding a wellness aspect to your adventure.
A good choice for:
The Dore Panoramic Road is a celebration of rural France's splendor. Allow yourself to be captivated by the changing landscapes, from the volcanic peaks of the Auvergne to the verdant valleys of the Dordogne. Pause at the charming towns, relish the local cuisine, and indulge in the tranquil pace of life as you create unforgettable memories on this enchanting Road Trip.