Visit Argentat-sur-Dordogne, the stronghold of the river bargemen!

Argentat-sur-Dordogne
Culture and Heritage

Argentat is a charming and welcoming town on the banks of the Dordogne River, located in the Xaintrie region. This bountiful area promises beautiful landscapes and plenty of hiking trails, heritage sites, and authentic charm. Argentat can be visited in all seasons, but it's at its liveliest during the warmer months. This unspoiled corner of the Corrèze region will appeal to nature lovers and those who appreciate the simple things in life. Try to visit on a fair or market day!

Argentat-sur-Dordogne, the river at the heart of the economy

Argentat was famous for its trading port. Imagine that in the past, courageous bargemen would set out from its banks in their rudimentary (but sturdy enough to navigate the entire turbulent river!) flat-bottomed boats. These bargemen were an important economic resource and the pride of their region. They built their boats and loaded them with logs, planks, and wooden stakes to transport this resource to the Bordeaux region. The wood was essential for heating, construction, and also for viticulture, for making barrels for the wine and vine stakes.

To visit Argentat, follow the heritage trail ; it's easy as the town is small and compact. The main points of interest are concentrated around the quays, the church, and the Tourist Office (where you can pick up a town map). On the other side of the bridge, the town continues, and the quays offer beautiful views of the medieval corbelled houses. Don't hesitate to wander through the narrow streets (respectfully). You can continue on to the Argentat gravel pits by following a footbridge.

Points of interest in the city:

The Heritage House, an interesting little local museum
The Recollects Convent
The Manors and fortified houses of the alleyways around the church

There is a Tèrra Aventura circuit in the town of Argentat, to find the Poïz Zabeth.

A stroll along the quays of Argentat

Take a stroll along the quays, enjoy an ice cream or a drink in the warmer months. Admire the fishermen's houses, beautifully adorned with flowers and roofs covered in slate and stone. Pack a picnic the rest of the year to enjoy this idyllic spot. Sitting on the quayside next to the old flat-bottomed boat (the courpet ), you can imagine it bustling with fishermen and boatmen preparing for their perilous journeys, saying goodbye to their families, and setting off on the " high waters " of the roaring Dordogne.

Would you like to take a trip on a traditional flat-bottomed boat (gabarre) in Argentat ? It's possible, but not from the quays. You need to book in advance and go to the Chastang dam area. Read our article to find out more.

Canoeing and kayaking from Argentat is a wonderful way to discover the Dordogne River, enjoy the scenery, and admire the town from a unique perspective. Several routes are available, including a very easy (just 1 hour) and inexpensive one, perfect for introducing children to the sport. And if you enjoy splashing around? Head to Splash, Argentat's swimming pool, which has a play area for children to have fun sliding down the water slides.

The fairs and markets of Argentat

Argentat hosts a traditional fair every first and third Thursday of the month. Come and experience one of the largest fairs in the Corrèze region, a rustic and authentic event! There are also weekly markets.

Saturday (small market)
Sunday mornings from May to September
The 2^nd and 4^th Thursdays of the month (in addition to the fairs)

You'll find local producers, fruits and vegetables, processed goods, cheese, eggs, honey, and sometimes handicrafts. In season, the markets are larger but just as authentic.

Pack a picnic basket and head out for some exercise on the Argentat Via Ferrata ! It's easy, free to access with your own equipment or rentable from the Tourist Office.

The Gravel Pits of Argentat

On the left bank of the Dordogne River, upstream from the town, the Department acquired 45 hectares of a former gravel pit in Argentat. It is now a haven for biodiversity, featuring ponds (25 hectares of water bodies) and designated Sensitive Natural Areas. A mobile app allows for self-guided tours. Educational activities are also offered by external partners including the LPO (League for the Protection of Birds), the fishing and hunting federation, the Department, and nature conservation associations.

We wish you a pleasant visit to Argentat ! Consider continuing your exploration towards the wonders of the Xaintrie region.