At the orchid site in La Dornac, 23 orchid species have been recorded, including three protected species. The site is open year-round; guided discovery tours are offered on request from mid-April to mid-June.
Nature
La Dornac is home to protected flora and a diverse fauna. On the Boucle de Saint Chaubrant in the Causse Terrassonnais, visitors can discover a rich variety of animal and plant life, as well as various orchid species from March to July. With a little patience at the Source du Nejeyrol, visitors can observe turtle doves, wood pigeons and numerous songbirds.
Trails
The Boucle de Saint Chaubrant begins in the centre of La Dornac and follows the yellow trail markers towards Maillol. The Boucle des Orchidées also begins in La Dornac, is 9.9 km long, takes around three hours and has a moderate difficulty level. It is a marked trail along the Chemin de Coly, where orchids can be discovered.
The green circular “Sentier d'interprétation” trail is 2.5 km long and runs through the centre of the village. At the Puits de Chazal, there are picnic tables and a stone fountain where hikers can take a short break. Further picnic tables are available at the Cabane de La Louise on the Boucle de Saint Chaubrant.
Culture and Village Character
The Église Notre-Dame has been protected as a historic monument since 22 August 1949 and was remodelled in the 15th century. Its western façade features a bell-wall tower with three sound openings; to the east, above the choir, stands a square tower.
The hamlet of La Poujade preserves the architectural character of the Périgord Noir with its stone houses, walls and slate roofs. In the hamlet of Lazières, there is an old bread oven and a wooden “trama”, formerly used by a blacksmith for shoeing working animals.
Traditions and Encounters
Every June, La Dornac hosts the “Autour des fours à pains” walking rally. It helps preserve and pass on the traditional craft of bread-making. Meeting a Greeter in La Dornac is free of charge; Greeters welcome individuals and groups of up to six people.
For a stay in La Dornac, you can search for or rent a holiday apartment as accommodation.
