Steam train "Le Truffadou" in Martel

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One of the popular days out during a holiday in France is a ride on a historic or  tourist train. Whilst staying in a holiday home in the Dordogne you have the possibility to experience the tourist train of Martel. Also called "Le Truffadou", this train is an authentic steam train that used to be used for transporting truffles between Aurillac and Bordeaux. Now tourists are given the opportunity to go on a ride of about 13km through, past high cliffs and through vast valleys. You will sit in an open carriage on the train, ensuring you can enjoy a good view of the surroundings. Children also really enjoy this train journey, especially when the train runs along the rock face with an 80m deep ravine on the other side. During the trip you will receive explanations in various languages about the area, the sights during the ride and the history of the steam train "Le Truffadou". For families, train enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a special experience in the South of France, this nostalgic trip is an absolute must.

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Go on the Le Truffadou steam train

The Truffadou runs between Martel and Saint-Denis-Lès-Martel in the Dordogne - Lot region. This historic railway, also known as the "Haut-Quercy Tourist Railway", offers a unique journey through the beautiful Dordogne-Valley. You can board the train at Martel station. The smell of the coals fills the air and the water is refilled. The train operator climbs into the train and with a lot of noise the large steam train comes to life. When the passengers have boarded the open carriages, the whistle sounds and the train slowly starts moving. The journey through villages and across vast plains is about to begin. The train regularly disappears into the tunnel that is blackened on the inside by the smoke. These tunnels are carved into the rock. The train makes stops at spectacular viewpoints, allowing passengers to enjoy beautiful panoramas, where there is also often an opportunity to get out of the train. When on a high cliff it is stunning to see how high the train runs and how deep the valley is. The railway is carved into the steep rocks of Mirandol and at some points is up to 80 meters above the Dordogne river. After a beautiful day out on the steam train, you will return to your holiday home in a holiday park in the Dordogne with fantastic memories.

Highlights of the train journey

  • Spectacular views
  • 5 tunnels
  • Stops at viewpoints
  • High cliffs at Mirandol
  • 80m above the Dordogne valley
  • Through picturesque villages
  • Explanations in different languages
  • 13 km long
  • Approx. 1 - 1.5 hours
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Truffles from the Dordogne in the Truffadou

The train is nicknamed "The Truffadou”, which is also the name it is known by in the surrounding area. The name comes from the truffles that the steam train used to transport. From 1889 onwards, wagonloads of truffles were transported between Aurillac and Bordeaux or Paris. The railway had an important role in the economy of the region and had to compete with the transport of truffles on the Dordogne Rive which mainly took place with Gabarres, boats made for the transport of truffles. The railway was built between 1880 and 1884. In the heyday, up to 10 tons of truffles were transported. During the First World War, the rails were removed and used for military purposes. In 1919 the line was rebuilt with American rails, these rails are still there. The railway was closed in 1980, but in 1991 a group of enthusiastic volunteers foundedthe association "Le Chemin de Fer Touristique du Haut-Quercy" (CFTHQ) in order to maintain the railway. After years of hard work, the section between Martel and Saint-Denis was reopened in 1997 for touristic purposes.

Sights Truffadou

The Truffadou, the historic steam train between Martel and Saint-Denis-lès-Martel, has a number of points of interest along the route:

  • Panoramic views: The train travels at a height of 80 meters above the Dordogne River, providing breathtaking views of the Dordogne Valley.
  • Rock formations: The railway is carved into the steep rocks of Mirandol, which offers a spectacular view of the surrounding cliffs.
  • Tunnels: Passengers pass through tunnels carved into the rock, making for a thrilling experience.
  • Picturesque villages: During the ride, travellers can enjoy the view of quaint villages in the area.
  • Natural Beauty: The route offers stunning views of the local flora and fauna of the Dordogne Valley.
  • Photogenic stops: The train stops at the most beautiful viewpoints so that passengers can enjoy the scenery and take pictures.

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Martel in the Dordogne – Lot region

In the heart of the beautiful Dordogne valley, north of Rocamadour, lies Martel, a charming medieval town known as the "City of the Seven Towers". One of the most unique things to do in Martel is to take a trip on the historic steam train, but there is so much more to do in Martel. Combine your train ride with a day to Martel and see the old market hall in the centre. The markets still take place here every week. During the summer months, there are plenty of events such as medieval festivals, open-air concerts and gastronomic markets. Also visit Palais de la Raymondie, the Tournemire tower and the Cordeliers tower. For the real truffle fans, a visit in the winter months is a must. Then you can visit the famous truffle market, where you can taste and buy this local delicacy.

Technical details

The train is powered by restored steam locomotives that push or pull open wagons. The mechanics of the steam train are a fine example of 19th-century technology:

  • Steam production: In the locomotive, water is heated to steam in a large boiler.
  • Propulsion: The steam drives pistons connected to the wheels, causing the train to move forward.
  • Coal combustion: A stoker shovels coal into the firebox to keep the fire burning and continue to produce steam.

Practical information

  • The ride takes about 1 – 1.5 hours.
  • The train runs mainly in the summer months
  • It is possible to book tickets online
  • After the train ride, you can enjoy a drink in an old compartment of the Trans Europe Express
  • Visit the museum in the passenger hall with old railway artifacts, including models, lanterns, and tools. This museum gives a good impression of the railway history of the region.

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