4 Best Hotels in Sarlat-la-Canéda, The Dordogne

On a meandering cobbled street in the heart of Sarlat's Cité Médiévale, La Villa des Consuls lets you bed down in either four guest rooms or nine self-service apartments; some are on two floors, and all boast soaring beamed ceilings, modern bathrooms, and charming views over the Old City's rooftops. Most apartments also have furnished private terraces, fireplaces, and well-appointed kitchens—a distinct advantage when you’re just steps from Sarlat's farmers' market and artisanal bakeries. Added perks like the free laundry area and affordable parking (€12 for your stay) make the package hard to resist.

Constructed in the 19th century, this elegant stone building, just north of the Old Town, offers extras like a pool, Turkish bath, and spa. Decorated in pastel colors, rooms are small but cozy, with floral quilts and modern bathrooms; three have balconies.

Sarlat is not overly blessed with beautiful historic hotels, so this one stands out—literally—thanks to its massive crenellated tower (an imposing structure that held off besieging forces during the Wars of Religion). Originally part of the town's ancient ramparts, the hotel is a short stroll from Sarlat's Cité Médiévale. Inside, the atmosphere is richest in the restaurant: a vast half-timber, 13th-century stone hall where the town council once presided; today, a menu of classic dishes reflect the area's rich gastronomic tradition. Guest rooms are simply but nicely furnished and vary widely in size, from teensy to spacious. The showpiece is the tower room, complete with a crenellated Cinerama view out the windows. Be aware that some rooms have stairs so book accordingly.

This charming hotel, set in a 13th-century stone manor about a mile outside Sarlat, has emerged as a top choice in the area and a great way to avoid Sarlat's high-season madness. Large, comfortable rooms make nice use of the building's historic features while being totally updated with bright, colorful decor and large baths. The attractive grounds are graced with several pleasant outdoor terraces and a pool, a plus in warm weather. The excellent in-hotel restaurant—with an elegant dining room that features a roaring fire in winter—rivals many in the area.