The line was historically nicknamed 'Le Truffadou' because it served the thriving local truffle market.
The railway operates on a section of the former Brive-Toulouse line, abandoned by the national network in 1980.
Construction of the line required significant civil engineering to navigate the cliffside, including multiple tunnels cut directly into rock.
The train reaches a maximum height of 80 meters above the Dordogne River during the transit.
The railway is managed and maintained primarily by a dedicated association of volunteers.
The route features a steep gradient, necessitating the use of specialized, powerful vintage locomotives.
The Chemin de Fer Touristique du Haut Quercy is a heritage railway operating on a historical line segment known as the 'Truffadou'. The line originally facilitated the transport of truffles to the Martel station in the early 20th century. Visitors travel in open-air carriages pulled by either steam or diesel locomotives through the Dordogne Valley cliffs. The track passes through tunnels and over viaducts carved into the limestone landscape at an elevation of 80 meters above the Dordogne River. The route runs from Martel to Saint-Denis-lès-Martel, covering approximately 13 kilometers round-trip. The train traverses the Montvalent valley, providing elevated views of the river below. The rolling stock includes restored 1920s-era carriages.
The open-air platform at the front or back of the carriage while crossing the viaducts.
Select a seat on the left side of the train when departing from Martel for the best views of the valley.
Bring a windbreaker or light jacket even in summer, as the temperature drops significantly inside the mountain tunnels.
Arrive early to observe the locomotive being shunted or positioned before departure.
Do not attempt to stand up while the train is in motion or place hands outside the carriage perimeter while passing through tunnels.
Operates seasonally from early spring through late autumn; daily service during peak summer months, with limited operations on weekends during off-peak periods.
