Sarlat: Travel Sketchbook

When we first heard about the Sarlat: Travel Sketchbook experience, it caught our attention because it offers something a bit different from typical sightseeing tours. Instead of just walking and listening, you get to see Sarlat through your own artistic lens, capturing its beauty with pencil, pen, or watercolor. It seems perfect for those who want a more personal, hands-on way of connecting with this charming town.

What we especially like about this experience is how it combines learning and exploring in a relaxed setting—you’re not just sightseeing, but creating something meaningful. Plus, the price offers good value if you’re interested in developing a new skill or just want to take home a unique souvenir. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this is a 2-hour workshop, so it’s quite focused, and you’ll want to arrive prepared with your drawing materials.

This tour suits art lovers, curious travelers, or anyone looking to slow down and truly ‘see’ Sarlat in a different way. It’s not ideal if you’re in a rush or prefer a more traditional sightseeing style, but if you enjoy getting creative and want to remember your trip in a personal way, this could be a real highlight.

Key Points

• Creative exploration: It’s a chance to discover Sarlat by sketching its streets and architecture.
• Instructive and cultural: You get an introduction to travel journaling and learn about the town’s history.
• Flexible materials: Bring your own drawing supplies; watercolor fans will want to pack brushes.
• Group size: Up to 12 people, making it intimate enough for personal attention.
• Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible, but those with mobility issues should check the specific route.
• Cost and duration: $339 per group, lasting around 2 hours—an efficient but impactful activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sarlat in a Different Light

Sarlat is often celebrated for its medieval charm, with narrow winding streets, stone buildings, and bustling markets. This experience invites you to see beyond the surface. Instead of just admiring the architecture, you’ll be encouraged to capture the essence of the town in your sketchbook. We loved the way the guide described the town as “an open-air museum,” which makes it perfect for a visual journal.

The workshop begins with a quick introduction to travel journaling, including artistic techniques that suit both beginners and more experienced artists. Whether you’re comfortable with watercolor or just doodling with a pen, the focus is on expressing your personal view. The guide also shares snippets of Sarlat’s history, giving context to what you’re drawing. This combination of history and art enriches your experience, making it more than just a drawing class.

You’ll stroll through landmarks like the episcopal palace, the cathedral, and the lively Place de la Liberté. These spots are the perfect canvas for sketches — ornate facades, bustling squares, and scenic corners. The guide notes that market mornings (Wednesday and Saturday) are particularly lively, giving you a chance to observe local life and perhaps incorporate market scenes into your journal.

What’s great is that the workshop is flexible: you can choose to add watercolor touches, or keep it simple with pencil or pen. The materials you bring are your choice, but the guide provides all the artistic guidance you need. This makes it accessible for travelers of all skill levels, especially if you’re keen on learning new artistic techniques or simply want to try sketching as a new hobby.

The Practicalities

The meeting point in front of the Place du 14 juillet is straightforward to find, especially since it’s near parking options like the Place Pasteur lot. The tour is designed to be easy to fit into a busy day, lasting just two hours, so it works well if you’re on a tight schedule or want a brief, impactful activity.

Keep in mind that participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothes that can get a little messy—watercolors and ink can sometimes stray! If you don’t have your own materials, some basic supplies are recommended, like an A5 or A4 drawing book, pencils or pens, and watercolors if you prefer. Bringing along a small stool or foldable seat isn’t mandatory but could make your sketching more comfortable.

The activity is not suitable for children under 8, so this is more geared toward older kids, teens, and adults who can sit and focus for a couple of hours. The experience is accessible for wheelchair users, but it’s worth confirming if the specific route is fully accessible, depending on your mobility needs.

The Value of the Experience

At $339 for the entire group, you’re paying for a personalized, creative activity that offers more than just sightseeing. You’re gaining a new skill, creating a personal memento of your trip, and engaging with Sarlat’s beauty in a meaningful way. Considering the small group size, you get plenty of individual attention, making the whole experience more engaging and tailored.

Many reviews mention that the guide, Jeanne Moinet, provides a clear and friendly approach, balancing history with artistic tips. Travelers appreciate that the workshop isn’t just about drawing but also about observing and appreciating Sarlat’s architecture and atmosphere. Several noted that it’s a relaxing way to slow down and really absorb the town’s charm.

While some may find the 2-hour duration a bit brief—especially if you’re new to sketching or want to spend more time on your drawings—they also say that this keeps the activity lively and not overwhelming. The price may seem high to some, but when you consider the personalized instruction, the artistic tools involved, and the opportunity to make something tangible, it’s a reasonable investment.

Who Should Consider This?

This experience works best for art enthusiasts, curious travelers, or those looking for a different kind of souvenir. If you enjoy trying new activities, or if you want to develop a travel journal as a keepsake, you’ll find this workshop rewarding. It’s also a good choice if you prefer slow, thoughtful explorations over fast-paced tours.

It’s less suitable if you’re traveling with young children under 8, or if you prefer more traditional sightseeing without a creative component. Also, if your main goal is to see as many landmarks as possible in a short time, this might not be the best fit. However, for those craving a more personal, hands-on experience, it could be a highlight of your stay in Sarlat.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to have previous drawing experience? No, the workshop is designed to introduce artistic techniques suitable for all skill levels. The guide provides guidance, so beginners will feel comfortable trying out new methods.

What materials should I bring? Bring your own drawing book (A5 or A4), pencils or pens, watercolors if you want to add color, and brushes with water or water-tank brushes. It’s also helpful to have a small seat or folding stool if you prefer.

Is the workshop suitable for wheelchair users? Yes, the activity is wheelchair accessible, but it’s advisable to confirm specific arrangements with the provider if you have special mobility needs.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your itinerary shifts.

How long does the workshop last? The session is about 2 hours long, which makes it a manageable activity to fit into most schedules.

Is this experience family-friendly? It’s not suitable for children under 8 years, but older children and teenagers interested in art might enjoy joining.

Final Thoughts

The Sarlat: Travel Sketchbook experience offers a delightful way to connect with the town’s atmosphere through art. It’s perfect for travelers who want to slow down, learn something new, and create a personal memento of their trip. The combination of history, scenery, and artistic expression makes it a memorable addition to your time in Sarlat.

While it may not suit everyone—especially those seeking rapid sightseeing or traveling with very young kids—it’s a genuinely engaging activity that rewards patience and curiosity. If you’re looking for a meaningful, creative way to explore, this workshop might be just the thing to add depth and color to your journey in France.

Remember, whether you’re sketching your favorite scenes or just trying out watercolor techniques, the goal is to enjoy the process and take home a unique piece of your Sarlat experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: