Holidays in Dordogne
The Dordogne region is a fascinating and popular destination for French tourists and visitors from around the world. The rivers, forests, meadows and hills of this region are home to some of France’s most beautiful villages. If you are planning a trip to Dordogne, you might have trouble deciding where to go.
This guide will help you out by giving you all the information about what is worth seeing in this lovely region.
About Dordogne
Dordogne is a region in South-West France that was once considered to be the country’s poorest region and one of its most beautiful. In recent years, it has also become the focal point of a renaissance in French food and wine.
This region is famous for culinary tours which take visitors on hikes through the forests to find mushrooms, walks along quiet riverside paths to stop for lunch at local producers, and tastings of Dordogne’s most famous wine and cheese.
The people who live in Dordogne are often farmers or work in local industries such as producing foie gras or truffles. Tourism is a major industry, with many tourists attracted by opportunities to see castles or canoe on tranquil rivers.
What to see around?
This region is in the valley of the Dordogne River – quiet and peaceful region, with many residents living a genuine and authentic rural lifestyle. The area has beautiful scenery in its natural surroundings, rolling hills and cliffs, historic sites like castles or great cathedrals.
The town of Rocamadour is at the top of a cliff, and has one of France’s most recognisable neo gothic cathedrals. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Lot department, not far from the Périgord Noir.
Vineyards
The region has a long history of wine production, dating back to the Roman occupation. The Romans introduced grape vines and wine production techniques to the area. Today, there are over 1,000 vineyards in Dordogne with more than 100 chateaux that produce wines from grapes grown on their own estates or from other estates within the region. You can learn more about Dordogne Vineyards here.
Rocamadour
This small town is perched on a cliff in SW France and was once known as “Roc-Amadour” which roughly translates to “Rock of Amadour” – possibly referencing Amadour de la Roche who was one of the first knights to defend the area. The cathedral has had many vicissitudes over time but it still stands tall, with its spiral staircase reaching up to heaven.
Vieux Sarlat
It iss a narrative mediaeval village in France. Its most popular attraction are the restored buildings, many of which have intricate ledges and carved wooden ornaments. The village’s location on top of a hill makes it very picturesque and people usually stop by for lunch or dinner after visiting some sightseeing spots nearby. For example, people can stop at La Maison de la Roche Chanon to get a dish of regional cuisine or head over to La Maison du Chocolat for a hot chocolate drink.
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Aquarium du Perigord Noir
A very popular aquarium in Landerrouat, France. The glass-domed complex features several exhibits with marine creatures such as sharks and seals. Visitors can also enjoy educational shows and take part in aqua-culture activities.
Gardens of Eyrignac
10 hectares of sculpted plants and flowers are waiting for you. Come discover gardens in the heart of the Périgord Noir, only 30 kilometres from Sarlat. The gardens of Eyrignac is flourishing in France, showing off more and more vibrant new creations. Seven gardens await you, be it with your kids or for a leisurely stroll.
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Kayaking in Dordogne
The Dordogne river offers a variety of opportunities for all sorts of levels, including some thrilling rapids. Paddlers keen to start in Argentat should head there where the river is faster. Past Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, the river widens, the current slows down and the scenery improves. The wanderings of the Dordogne river takes you through beautiful landscapes and past lovely villages such as Carennac and Gluges. And also see caging pebble beaches and beautiful castles such as Belcastel.
Foret des singes in Rocamadour
This giant park is an available day trip for you and your children around the area. It has Macaques, living freely in a forest. The park itself includes a monkey rock with waterfall situated nearby as well.
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There are many more things to do around this region. Make sure to explore more before you go.
Old Chateaus of Dordogne To Visit
Château de Castelnaud
The Castelnaud castle, located at the very heart of the Périgord Noir, provides a splendid view over the Dordogne valley. It was founded back in the 12th century and is known to be the perfect example of mediaeval fortification. Now a museum with an important collection of armour and weapons, the Chateau has been reconstructed to showcase its powerful mediaeval siege weapons. Located along the bastion, they are ready to attack your group at any moment.
Château de Beynac
The Castle of Beynac is one of the best preserved castles in the Périgord region and is worth a visit. It was built in the 12th century by the barons of Beynac who controlled from there the key roads and waterways of the Dordogne.
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Le Fort de La Roque Gageac
It is a 12th century medieval fortification overlooking the beautiful Dordogne valley. You will reach it by an impressive staircase on the cliffside, with a 180° view of the scenery. The fort is built into the rock, and is the perfect example of an elaborate defensive site. You’ll find a moat, a stunner, walkways, archways and more.
Château des Milandes
This charming castle built in 1489 is a great example of Renaissance architecture. Featuring both Gothic and Renaissance features, the architecture is a grand example of what can be achieved during this period.
The garden was designed by Jules Vacherot, In the large park there are many types of trees, including: Atlas cedars, beech trees, cork oaks, hackberry trees, tulip trees and umbrella pines. Many people find these a lot of beautiful to look at.
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Château de Montreal
Located 7 km from Mussidan, the castle of Montreal overlooks the Crempse valley. here’s no shortage of fantastic areas to explore! With 3 lounges, a circular library and the 12th century staircase, you’re guaranteed to find something that piques your interest. There’s also the cave, chapel, and Outstanding Garden that are great for sightseeing as well.
You can check my article and read more about the chateau for weddings in Dordogne.
Dordogne Food
The Dordogne Valley is full of life and has some of the most delicious foods in France. You can get food from a stall, cook it at home or order it in restaurant or just enjoy them on their own. The flavours are out of this world. Rocamadour is a popular cheese at any local market or restaurant and the label ‘Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée’ guarantees it was made in the region. The Quercy lamb is another ambassador of the Dordogne Valley, free on limestone plateaux, they graze on thyme and other herbs for a delicious, fragrant taste.
To sum up about Dordogne food to try.
- Chaumes cheese;
- Black Perigord Truffle;
- Sobronade;
- Rocamadour cheese;
- Agneau du Perigord;
- Wine wine wine;
