Autoire: Things to See and Do
Autoire is one of the most enchanting "Plus Beaux Villages de France," a tiny medieval gem tucked into a dramatic limestone cirque in the heart of the Dordogne (Périgord Noir). Surrounded by towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery, this car-free village feels like a hidden fairy-tale escape. Its honey-colored stone houses with lauze roofs cluster around a 12th-century Romanesque church, while the surrounding valley offers breathtaking viewpoints and gentle walking paths.
Autoire is famous for its natural beauty — especially the spectacular waterfall (Cascade d'Autoire) and panoramic belvedere — as well as its perfectly preserved medieval architecture. With only about 100 permanent residents, the village remains peaceful and authentic, making it an ideal day trip from nearby Sarlat, Coly-Saint-Amand, or the Dordogne Valley châteaux. It pairs perfectly with visits to nearby Loubressac (another Plus Beaux Village) and the Gouffre de Padirac.
This guide covers the best things to see and do in Autoire, including a suggested walking route, practical tips, and highlights — everything you need to plan a memorable visit to this hidden jewel of the Dordogne.
History of Autoire
History of Autoire
Autoire's origins date back to the early Middle Ages, with the village first documented in the 11th century around a small Benedictine priory. Its strategic position — sheltered by cliffs and fed by natural springs — made it a safe refuge during turbulent times, including the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion. The 12th-century Romanesque church of Saint-Pierre, with its simple barrel-vaulted nave and carved capitals, is the oldest surviving structure.
Like many Périgord villages, Autoire prospered modestly through agriculture (walnuts, chestnuts, vines) and small-scale trade. The houses, built in local limestone with lauze (flat stone) roofs, date mostly from the 15th to 18th centuries. The village remained largely unchanged through the centuries, avoiding major destruction or modernization. In 1977, Autoire was classified as one of France's "Plus Beaux Villages," and in 1997 the surrounding valley and cirque were designated a "Site Inscrit" for their exceptional natural beauty. Today, it is preserved as a living heritage site, with strict rules protecting its medieval character.
Highlights of Autoire
Autoire is best known for its dramatic natural setting and perfectly preserved medieval village. The village sits in a deep, horseshoe-shaped cirque of limestone cliffs, creating a sheltered microclimate that supports lush vegetation, including walnut groves and chestnut trees. The Cascade d'Autoire, a 30-metre waterfall at the head of the valley, is one of the most photographed sites in the Dordogne. From the belvedere above the village, you can enjoy sweeping views over the rooftops, cliffs, and valley.
The village itself is a delight to wander: narrow lanes, stone arches, small squares, and houses with flower-filled windows. The 12th-century church of Saint-Pierre features simple Romanesque architecture, while the surrounding paths lead to viewpoints, the waterfall, and the Sentier des Cascades trail. The absence of cars in the village center adds to the peaceful, timeless atmosphere.
Key highlights:
- Cascade d'Autoire – 30-metre waterfall at the top of the cirque
- Belvédère d'Autoire – Panoramic viewpoint over the village and valley
- Medieval village center with lauze-roofed stone houses
- Église Saint-Pierre – 12th-century Romanesque church
- Sentier des Cascades & valley trails – Scenic walks through woods and cliffs
- Peaceful, car-free streets & authentic atmosphere
Walking Tour – Things to See and Do in Autoire
A visit to Autoire typically takes 2–4 hours (longer if hiking the full trail). Park in the large free lot at the entrance to the village (follow signs; no cars allowed in the center). The village is compact and pedestrian-only, with gentle slopes and some steps.
1. Village Center & Church – Start in the main square. Wander the narrow lanes, admire the lauze roofs and stone houses, and visit the small Romanesque Église Saint-Pierre (usually open; simple interior with carved capitals).
2. Cascade Path – Follow signs for the "Cascade d'Autoire" (15–20 min walk uphill). The path winds through woods to the base of the 30-metre waterfall, where you can cool off in summer or enjoy the misty spray and pools.
3. Belvédère & Panorama – Continue uphill (steep but short) to the belvedere viewpoint. Enjoy sweeping views over the village rooftops, cliffs, and valley. This is one of the most photographed spots in the Dordogne.
4. Sentier des Cascades Loop – For longer walks, follow the Sentier des Cascades trail (2–3 hours, moderate difficulty). It circles the cirque, passing multiple small waterfalls, viewpoints, and forested paths.
5. Village Return – Descend back through the lanes. Stop for a drink or meal at a terrace café, browse artisan shops (walnut products, local honey), or simply sit and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes (paths can be uneven or slippery after rain). Bring water and a camera. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light. Combine with nearby Loubressac (10 min drive) for a full "Plus Beaux Villages" day.
Fun Facts about Autoire
Autoire has a rich and picturesque history. Here are some interesting facts:
- Autoire is one of only two "Plus Beaux Villages" in the Dordogne alongside Loubressac (often visited together as the "Couple d'Or").
- The Cascade d'Autoire drops 30 metres and feeds a series of natural pools — perfect for cooling off in summer (but no official swimming area).
- The village appears in the film "Ever After: A Cinderella Story" (1998) starring Drew Barrymore, standing in for a fairy-tale French hamlet.
- Autoire's cirque creates a microclimate that supports lush vegetation — ferns, mosses, and wildflowers thrive on the moist cliffs.
- The name "Autoire" may derive from Latin "Alta Aqua" (high water), referring to the springs and waterfall that have sustained the village for centuries.