My sister and I are planning a trip to either the Dordogne or the Loire valley. There are many adventure tours to the Dordogne valley but we would like to do it on our own. I am finding more info on the Loire valley however. If any one has opinions on either I would love to hear them. One draw back is that we do not speak French and are a little worried about being able to hike on our own.

My husband and I rented a house in the Dordogne 3 or 4 summers back and found the region to be less visited by tourists and therefore far more enjoyable than other areas in France. The region has lost considerable population; it is primarily an agricultural area, and some of the local young people seem not to want to pursue agriculture as life goals. Nevertheless, it is outstanding. It is a biking and canoeing paradise, with hiking trails and fascinating prehistoric sites. The people were very charming and friendly. I speak Italian and high school French, which was quite useful. Even so, lacking language ought not stop you from having a terrific time. Bonne vacance! Carol L