Joutes Nautiques de Brantôme
Summer nautical jousting on the Dronne in Brantôme
About Joutes Nautiques
The Joutes Nautiques de Brantôme are a traditional summer spectacle that takes place every Friday evening in summer on the Dronne, in front of the abbey of Brantôme. For over forty years, two teams have competed aboard the Vivaldi and Marco Polo boats, each composed of five to seven rowers and a helmsman, with the objective of knocking the opponent into the water. This popular and free spectacle attracts families and visitors in an exceptional heritage setting.
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More than 40 years of nautical tradition
The Joutes Nautiques de Brantôme were born over forty years ago on the Dronne, the river that winds around the famous "Venice of Périgord". Every Friday evening in summer, the teams from the Vivaldi and Marco Polo boats compete in a nautical jousting spectacle in front of the Brantôme Abbey, one of the most beautiful sites in Périgord Vert.
The principle of jousting
Each team is composed of five to seven rowers and a helmsman. The objective is simple but spectacular: to knock the members of the opposing team into the water using padded poles, in a good-natured contest that elicits laughter and cheers from the crowd gathered on the banks.
A free and family-friendly spectacle
The jousts begin at 9 PM every Friday evening in summer and are entirely free. The exceptional setting of the illuminated abbey in the background adds to the magic of the show, making the Joutes Nautiques one of the most popular events of the Brantôme summer.
Joutes Nautiques — edition 2026
2026 season of the Joutes Nautiques de Brantôme. The traditional nautical jousts return every Friday evening in summer on the Dronne in front of the abbey.
Joutes Nautiques 2026
The Joutes Nautiques de Brantôme return for their 2026 season every Friday evening in summer at 9 PM on the Dronne, in front of the abbey. The Vivaldi and Marco Polo teams promise new spectacular contests in a unique heritage setting.
Prices Joutes Nautiques 2026
Practical information — Joutes Nautiques
Practical Information
Access
The jousts take place on the Dronne, in front of the Abbaye de Brantôme, 24310 Brantôme-en-Périgord.
Schedules
Every Friday evening in summer at 9 PM (July-August).
Prices
Free admission.
Note
The jousts may be cancelled in case of cyanobacteria proliferation or unfavorable weather conditions. Check with the tourist office.
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Joutes Nautiques at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Joutes Nautiques
La Dronne — Abbaye de Brantôme
Devant l'Abbaye, 24310 Brantôme-en-Périgord