In this part of the Dordogne you can explore the prehistoric settlements of the Vézère Valley - the roots of prehistoric man in Europe are in the Dordogne region and much of the region is now a UNESCO listed world heritage site.
North of Sarlat (close to the Manoir d'Eyrignac) you will also enjoy a walk around the pretty village of Saint-Genies and perhaps the small town of Salignac-Eyvigues if you are nearby.įrance This Way review: this is certainly the most visited part of the Dordogne and contains many of the highlights although we would be inclined to visit outside high season if possible to appreciate it at its best. Near to La Roque Gageac the Jardin de la Ferme Fleurie is a pretty garden bursting with colour and on the edge of Domme the Jardins d'Albarede sit in a pretty valley. The Jardins de Marqueyssac is perhaps the most popular but the Jardins d'eau at Carsac-Aillac and the Jardins de Cadiot at Carlux are also a treat, and the Jardins du manoir d'Eyrignac are one of the most lovely gardens in France. There are some attractive gardens to visit whilst in the area. To the west of these principal towns and villages, Saint-Cyprien is another attractive Dordogne market town and also the quiet village of Siorac-en-Perigord.Īmong other castles in the area, Chateau de Montfort is a fairytale castle on a hill a few kilometres from Sarlat, Chateau de Puymartin is another of the lovely castles in Perigord Noir, and the attention to historical detail and the views across the river make Chateau de Beynac a treat for visitors.Ĭhateau de Castelnaud is both a medieval castle and an extensive museum of medieval warfare - your children will love it! An interesting contrast nearby, the 15th century Chateau des Milandes is well known because Josephine Baker owned the castle during the 20th century. Close by the pretty village of Carlux has a ruined castle in its centre. Three of the villages here are listed among the 'most beautiful villages in France: the riverside setting, ancient village streets and castle make Beynac a highlight for visitors the ancient stone houses along the river at La Roque-Gageac make it very scenic and Domme is a hilltop village with some of the best views in the Dordogne as well as extensive caves in the village centre. Sarlat is the 'medieval capital of the Dordogne' and perhaps the most lovely town in France, and is in the heart of Perigord Noir. In Perigord Noir you will find many of the most famous castles, towns and villages of the Dordogne region, many in spectacular locations, and with fascinating histories to tell - but you will also find more tourists and busier roads, especially in high season. Note that the Dordogne area is quite large, perhaps two hours drive from north to south and a similar distance east to west, even more if the places are not close to the larger roads, so you are unlikely to see everything in one visit - no problem though, because you will certainly want to come back again! The Dordogne is one of our favourite departments in France, and because there is so much variety the main challenge is knowing where to start when describing the highlights - and for you to decide where to stay when you visit! To make your travel planning slightly easier we have divided our review further down this page into four distinct regions. The Dordogne has stunning medieval castles, historical villages and towns, and the famous prehistoric caves of the UNESCO listed Vezere Valley to enjoy, each of them set in the attractive landscapes of the region, with rivers, forests and beautiful countryside, so it is no surprise that the Dordogne is one of the most popular destinations in France!
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