Gorges du Pont du Diable

Carved by the wild waters of the Durance River, the Gorges du Pont du Diable (Devil's Bridge Gorges) is a dramatic natural wonder in the heart of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. This deep limestone canyon, spanned by a medieval bridge that seems to defy gravity, offers visitors a raw, untamed landscape of turquoise pools, sheer cliffs, and lush greenery. It's a paradise for hikers, kayakers, and photographers, and a must-see stop on any self-drive itinerary through southwestern France.

Highlights & What to See

• The Devil's Bridge itself – an 11th-century arched bridge clinging to the canyon walls, offering jaw-dropping views of the gorge below.
• Canyon hiking trails – well-marked paths that wind along the rim and descend to the river, with viewpoints over the emerald-green pools.
• Kayaking or paddleboarding on the calm sections of the Durance River, with rental options available in the nearby village.
• Swimming in natural pools – on hot summer days, the clear, cool waters are irresistible; find a secluded spot along the riverbank.
• Local gastronomy – after exploring, head to a riverside café for a glass of Bergerac wine and a plate of confit de canard.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a half-day (3–4 hours) hiking the main loop and admiring the bridge. If you want to kayak or simply relax by the water, plan for a full day. The gorge is best visited in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light for photography. Combine it with a stop in a nearby market town for lunch.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Beynac-et-Cazenac – one of France's most beautiful villages, with a hilltop castle overlooking the Dordogne River, just 20 minutes away.
• Sarlat-la-Canéda – a medieval town famous for its Saturday market, foie gras, and honey-coloured stone buildings (30 minutes).
• Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil – the capital of prehistory, with the National Museum of Prehistory and the Font-de-Gaume cave paintings (25 minutes).
• La Roque-Gageac – a stunning cliffside village with a riverside promenade and a tropical garden (15 minutes).
• Rocamadour – a spectacular pilgrimage site built into a cliff face, about 40 minutes east.

Please check official sources for current details.