The Saut du Chalard is a waterfall on the Dronne river, nestled in the undergrowth of Champs-Romain, just 3 km from Château le Verdoyer. A discreet, almost secret spot that is well worth the detour.
A hidden waterfall in the heart of the Périgord Vert
Sometimes you feel you have seen everything the Périgord Vert has to offer after driving its roads from one village to the next.
Then, suddenly, at a bend in a hiking trail, you find yourself facing a beautiful site where water and nature create a magical scene.
Just a stone’s throw from Château le Verdoyer, we invite you to discover one of these hidden gems: the Saut du Chalard.
Practical information: how to reach the Saut du Chalard
📍 Start: village of Champs-Romain, Dordogne (24470) — parking available
📏 Distance: ~3 km from Château le Verdoyer
⏱ Duration: 1h30 to 2h (round trip)
📐 Elevation gain: 100 m
👨👩👧 Difficulty: easy to moderate, suitable for families
🅿️ Parking: available at the start of the trail
The Saut du Chalard is located just a few kilometers from Château le Verdoyer.
In the village of Champs-Romain, 3 km from the campsite, signs will guide you to the trail that leads to this waterfall, hidden from everyone’s view.
Whether by car, bike, or on foot, the trail is easily accessible and a parking area is provided.
After a 30 to 45-minute walk (depending on your pace – 100 m elevation gain – benches are provided along the path) along a winding trail that heads into the woods, you will finally discover a charming little waterfall on the Dronne river.
The legend of the Abjat bell
It is said that one of the bells from the neighboring village of Abjat is submerged in the waters of the Saut du Chalard and that it chimes every Thursday around 2 p.m.
This legend dates back to the 17th century.
The local lord fell madly in love with a young girl from Abjat. However, as in any good story, the fair maiden’s heart was already taken. The lord attempted to kidnap her, but the villagers resisted and killed the lord in the ensuing confrontation.
In retaliation, the King had the villagers hanged and all the village bells removed. One of them rolled off during transport and ended its journey in the waters of the Dronne.
It is also said that the maiden died of grief and that one can still see her silhouette flying in the bell tower of Abjat, which has since had its bells returned.
This legend has been passed down from generation to generation in the villages of Champs-Romain and Abjat-sur-Bandiat.
To fully enjoy your walk, you can pick up a discovery booklet at the Champs-Romain town hall or the St. Pardoux Tourist Office.
Do not hesitate to ask at the campsite reception for more information.
The Saut du Chalard is one of many walks accessible directly from Château le Verdoyer. Discover all our hiking ideas in the Périgord Vert.
