A short nature trail, a considerably longer walking route and a neo-Gothic church offer different ways to enjoy a stay in La Coquille. At the Étang de La Barde, the focus is on the water and observing nature; in the village, you’ll also find Saint-Joseph, a puzzle activity for exploring the village and a weekly market. These differences can help you choose the focus of your trip: a short walk by the water, a longer route, village culture or a visit timed to coincide with market day.
Nature at the Étang de La Barde
The Étang de La Barde covers 6 hectares and is fed by the Valouse stream. A 2-kilometre trail runs alongside the étang for observing fauna and flora; one of its notable features is a remarkable stand of beech trees. Possible sightings include black woodpeckers, grey herons and ospreys. Otters are associated with the nearby stream. The water, plants and possible wildlife sightings thus offer different ways to experience nature.
A fishing permit is required to fish at the étang. Check the applicable rules and fishing permit requirements before you fish.
Two routes, different distances
For observing nature, there is a 2-kilometre trail at the étang. The circular route around the pond is a very easy hike, also 2 kilometres long, takes 45 minutes and starts in La Coquille. Trail conditions may change, so check them before setting out. A longer option is the Boucle de Grateloup: this circular hiking route is 11 kilometres long and also starts in La Coquille. It is also designated for horse riding and focuses on nature, fauna and flora.
The two routes differ in more than just distance: a walking time of 45 minutes is given for the Étang loop, while the Boucle de Grateloup is additionally designated as a horse-riding route. This lets you compare the shorter loop and the longer route using different criteria, without assuming a walking time for the Boucle.
Saint-Joseph Church and the pilgrimage route
Saint-Joseph Church in La Coquille is a 19th-century neo-Gothic building. Its 14 stained-glass windows were created by Achille Perrier. Its neo-Gothic architecture and stained-glass art provide two specific cultural points of interest. The Vézelay Way is also part of the village’s character: La Coquille lies on this pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela.
Weekly market and village puzzle activity
In 2026, some producers offer their products at La Coquille’s weekly market on Thursday mornings throughout the year. If you plan to visit the market, bear in mind that it takes place on Thursday mornings and check the times again before your trip.
The «Carnet de bord de l'aventurier à La Coquille» activity offers families a puzzle game for exploring the village. Activity details may change, so check before your trip whether it is available on your chosen date. The market and puzzle game offer different experiences: the market follows the weekly rhythm, while the activity explores the village through puzzles.
Search for hotels with a specific trip in mind
If you’re looking for a hotel in La Coquille, first decide what you’d like your stay to focus on: nature at the étang, a hike on the Boucle de Grateloup, village culture around Saint-Joseph or a visit timed to coincide with the weekly market.
Discover more destinations: Castelnaud-La-Chapelle, Mazeyrolles, Siorac-En-Périgord, Payzac, Étouars, Champeaux-Et-La-Chapelle-Pommier, Cendrieux, Chalais.
For the broader travel overview: Dordogne.
