– Les Eyzies is the capital of prehistory in France. It is home to the National Prehistory Museum, which houses one of the world’s most complete collections of prehistoric artifacts, including the skeleton of a newborn Neanderthal, one of the most intact in the world. You can also visit the International Centre of Prehistory, which provides a wealth of information and displays about prehistoric times.
– Les Eyzies is surrounded by many caves and rock shelters that contain some of the most beautiful and important prehistoric paintings and engravings in Europe. You can admire the stunning artworks of our ancestors at sites such as Font-de-Gaume, Abri Pataud, Abri Cro-Magnon, and Laugerie-Basse. These sites are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Vézère Valley, which has more than 150 archaeological sites dating back to the Paleolithic period.
– Les Eyzies is nestled in a gorgeous landscape of cliffs, rivers, and forests. You can enjoy the natural beauty of the area by hiking, biking, canoeing, or horse riding. You can also explore the troglodyte dwellings that are carved into the limestone cliffs, such as the castle of Tayac, the Roc de Cazelles, and the chapel of Guilhem. These dwellings date back to medieval times and offer a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.

– Domme has stunning views of the Dordogne River and the surrounding countryside. You can admire them from the Belvedere de la Barre, a viewpoint that offers a panoramic vista of the valley and its castles, such as Beynac, Castelnaud, and La Roque-Gageac. You can also enjoy the scenery from the Promenade des Falaises, a walk along the edge of the cliff that leads to a public park.
– Domme has a fascinating underground world to discover. Beneath the main square, you can enter the Grottes de Domme, a network of caves that were used as a shelter by the inhabitants during the Hundred Years’ War. The caves have more than 400 meters of galleries filled with stalactites and stalagmites, as well as carvings made by the Knights Templar who were imprisoned there in the 14th century. You can access the caves by a glass lift that takes you back to the surface.
– Domme has a remarkable architectural heritage to admire. The town was founded in 1281 by King Philip III the Bold and retains part of its original fortified walls and gateways. You can enter the town through the Porte des Tours, a majestic gate with round towers that houses a museum dedicated to the history of Domme. You can also visit the Maison du Gouverneur, an impressive building that hosts the town hall and the tourist office. The town has many other beautiful buildings, such as the Couvent des Augustins, a former convent, and the Maison du batteur de monnaie du Roy, where money was minted in the Middle Ages.
– Domme has a lively and authentic atmosphere to enjoy. The town has a large market hall where you can find local products and specialties, such as foie gras, truffles, walnuts, and cheese. You can also taste the cuisine of the Périgord in one of the many restaurants and cafes that line the streets. The town hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Fête de la Musique, the Fête de la Saint-Jean, and the Fête du Vin.

If you are planning to visit Domme, you can find more information on these websites:

– https://www.northofthedordogne.com/domme.php
– https://www.vallee-dordogne.com/dordogne/domme
– https://www.perigord.com/en/listings/villes-et-villages/domme/

Beynac in the Dordogne is a charming village that deserves to be visited by anyone who loves history, nature and culture. Here are some reasons why you should plan a trip to this beautiful place.

– Beynac has a stunning medieval castle that overlooks the Dordogne river and the surrounding countryside. The castle was built in the 12th century and was the scene of many battles between the French and the English during the Hundred Years’ War. You can visit the castle and admire its architecture, its furniture, its frescoes and its panoramic views.
– Beynac is one of the most beautiful villages in France, with its stone houses, its narrow streets, its flower gardens and its riverside promenade. You can stroll through the village and discover its charm and authenticity. You can also enjoy a meal or a drink in one of the many restaurants and cafes that offer local specialties and scenic views.
– Beynac is a great base to explore the Dordogne valley, which is rich in natural and cultural attractions. You can take a boat ride on a traditional gabare (a flat-bottomed boat) and admire the castles, the cliffs, and the wildlife along the river. You can also rent a canoe or a kayak and paddle at your own pace.
– Beynac is close to other remarkable villages that are worth a visit, such as La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, and Domme. These villages are also classified as some of the most beautiful in France and have their own history, architecture, and charm. You can easily reach them by car, bike, or by foot.
– Beynac is a place where you can experience the authentic French lifestyle, with its markets, festivals, its traditions, and its hospitality. You can stay in one of the many accommodation options available, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. You can also visit the archaeological park, where you can learn about the daily life of people from Neolithic to Gallic times.

Beynac in the Dordogne is a destination that will enchant you with its beauty, its history, and its culture. It is a place where you can relax, have fun, and discover new things. Don’t hesitate to book your trip to this wonderful village!

Monpazier is one of the most beautiful villages in France and a perfect example of a bastide town, a fortified settlement built in the Middle Ages. Here are some reasons why Monpazier is worth visiting and some of the movies that were filmed there.

Monpazier was founded in 1284 by Edward I of England, who wanted to create a stronghold in the southwest of France. The village has a rectangular layout with straight streets and equal-sized houses, which was a very innovative and egalitarian design at the time. The village is surrounded by thick walls with six stone gateways, two of which still remain. The heart of Monpazier is the Place des Cornières, a lovely square with arcaded houses dating from the 13th to the 17th century. In the center of the square stands a wooden market hall, where you can still see the original weighing and measuring instruments. The square is also home to the church of Monpazier, which was built in the 13th century and modified several times over the centuries.

Monpazier is not only a picturesque village, but also a lively and cultural one. You can find many shops, restaurants, and art galleries in the village, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of Bastides. Monpazier also hosts several events throughout the year, such as a flower festival in May, a brocante (flea market) in June, and a medieval festival in July. During these events, you can enjoy the local crafts, cuisine, and traditions of Monpazier.

Monpazier is also a great place to discover the natural beauty and heritage of the Dordogne region. You can explore the nearby countryside by hiking, biking, or horse riding, and admire the rolling hills, forests, and vineyards. You can also visit some of the other bastide towns in the area, such as Beaumont-du-Périgord, Villeréal, and Domme. If you are interested in prehistoric art, you can also visit some of the famous caves in the region, such as Lascaux and Font-de-Gaume.

Monpazier has also been chosen as a filming location for several movies, thanks to its authentic and scenic atmosphere. One of the most recent movies that was filmed there is The Last Duel (2021), directed by Ridley Scott and starring Matt Damon, Adam Driver, Jodie Comer, and Ben Affleck. The movie is based on a true story of a duel between two knights in 14th-century France. Monpazier was used as one of the settings for the movie, along with other locations in France and Ireland. You can see some scenes of Monpazier in the trailer of the movie here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QsXtq0oQ6ns

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle

Castelnaud is a medieval castle that overlooks the Dordogne Valley and offers a stunning view of the river and the surrounding countryside. It is also a museum of war in the Middle Ages, where you can see a large collection of weapons, armor and siege machines. Here are some reasons why Castelnaud is worth visiting:

– You can explore the castle and its fortifications, which date back to the 12th century and were involved in many conflicts, such as the Hundred Years War and the Wars of Religion. You can learn about the history and architecture of the castle, as well as the daily life of its inhabitants.
– You can admire the impressive display of medieval warfare, which includes swords, crossbows, cannons, catapults, trebuchets, and more. You can also see some of the most powerful siege engines of the time, such as the mangonel, the couillard, and the bricole. Some of these machines are functional and are demonstrated regularly.
– You can enjoy the panoramic view of the Dordogne Valley, which is one of the most beautiful landscapes in France. You can see the river, the cliffs, the forests, and the villages that dot the valley. You can also spot some of the other castles that are nearby, such as Beynac, Marqueyssac, and La Roque-Gageac.
– You can visit the exhibition “The Hundred Years War: A Century of Fashion”, which showcases twelve costumes that recreate the aristocratic fashion of the late Middle Ages. You can see how clothing changed over time and reflected social status, gender roles, and cultural influences.
– You can participate in various activities and events that are organized throughout the year, such as theatrical visits, workshops, games, concerts, and festivals. You can also try on medieval costumes and take pictures with them.

Castelnaud is a place that will appeal to both adults and children, as it offers a rich and varied experience that combines education and entertainment. It is open every day, all year round, and you can buy tickets online or on-site. If you want to learn more about Castelnaud, you can visit its official website or read some articles about it. Castelnaud is a destination that you will not regret visiting!

This beautiful bastide town was founded by the English king Edward I in 1272 and has preserved its medieval character and charm. Here are some reasons why Beaumont du Perigord is worth visiting:

– You can admire the impressive Church of St Front, which looks like a fortress with its four towers and battlements. This Gothic church was built at the end of the 13th century and was part of the town’s defensive system. You can also see the only remaining gate of the original 16 that surrounded the town, the Porte de Luzier.
– You can stroll along the picturesque streets and squares, lined with arcades, timbered houses, and shops. You can discover the Maison Chambard, a 15th-century town house, the Maison Lafitte, a rare example of a wooden house with a cross of St Andrew, and the Maison de Monsec, a former prison. You can also visit the old convent, which is now a retirement home, and the fountain and washhouse where women used to do their laundry.
– You can enjoy the lively atmosphere of the town, especially on market days. Every Tuesday and Saturday, you can find local products and crafts on the central square, under the covered market hall.
– You can explore the surrounding countryside, rich in natural and historical attractions. You can visit the Chateau de Bannes, a fairy-tale castle that dates back to the 15th century. You can also see the Dolmen de Blanc, an ancient megalithic monument that testifies to the long history of the area. If you like walking, there are several trails that start from Beaumont and offer scenic views of the landscape.
– You can experience the festive spirit of Beaumont during its annual events. One of them is the brocante market, which takes place on Easter Monday and in the summer. This is a great opportunity to find antiques, vintage items, and curiosities. Another event is the flower festival, which decorates the town with colorful paper flowers in July and August. And the Monday evening markets with food and drinks.

Visit La Roque-Gageac, one of the most beautiful villages in France. Located in the Dordogne region, in the heart of Périgord Noir, La Roque-Gageac is a stunning village that clings to a limestone cliff overlooking the Dordogne River. Here are some reasons why you should visit this amazing place.

– Enjoy the exotic garden: La Roque-Gageac benefits from a mild and sunny microclimate that allows the growth of exotic plants such as palm trees, banana trees, fig-trees, cacti, and bamboo. You can admire this surprising garden from the courtyard of the 14th-century church or from the river.
– Explore the history and architecture: La Roque-Gageac has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to prehistoric times. You can discover the traces of its past in the Manoir de Tarde, a former residence of the bishops of Sarlat, the troglodyte fortifications that were built to protect the village from invasions, and the Renaissance houses that line the riverbank.
– Experience the river life: One of the best ways to appreciate La Roque-Gageac is from the water. You can board a traditional cargo barge, called a gabarre, and enjoy a scenic cruise along the Dordogne River. You will have a splendid view of the village and its surroundings, and learn about the history and culture of the region.
– Taste the local products: You can find them at the local farmer’s market that takes place every Friday morning from May to September, or at one of the restaurants or shops in the village.

– Tremolat has a stunning location on the banks of the Dordogne River, which forms a spectacular loop called the Cingle de Tremolat. You can enjoy breathtaking views of the river and the countryside from the Belvedere de Tremolat, a viewpoint that is accessible by car or bike. The river also offers many opportunities for water sports, such as canoeing, kayaking, and water skiing. You can rent equipment or take lessons at the **Bassin Nautique International**, a water ski center that is located at the campsite near the village.
– Tremolat has a rich heritage that dates back to the 6th century when a hermit named Saint-Cybard settled here. Later, monks built a monastery and a Romanesque church, which still stands today. The church of Saint Nicolas is a remarkable example of fortified architecture, with a strong room that served as a refuge for the villagers in times of war. The church also has some 14th-century frescoes and stained glass windows by Paul Becker. Next to the church, you can see the remains of the cloister and the chapter house, which were destroyed during the Hundred Years War. You can also visit the 12th-century chapel of Saint-Hilaire, which has been restored by the locals.
– Tremolat has a lively gastronomic scene, with several restaurants that offer local specialties and fine dining. One of the most renowned restaurants in the Dordogne is **Le Vieux Logis**, a four-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant that has an excellent reputation. You can treat yourself to a gourmet meal in a cozy and elegant setting. Other options include **Le Bistrot de la Place**, which serves traditional dishes with a modern twist, and **La Pizzeria**, which offers wood-fired pizzas and salads. You can also find some shops and markets that sell local products, such as cheese, wine, foie gras, and truffles.
– Tremolat has been featured in several movies, thanks to its picturesque scenery and atmosphere. The most famous one is **Le Boucher**, a thriller by Claude Chabrol that was filmed in 1969. The movie tells the story of a schoolteacher who falls in love with a butcher who may be a serial killer. You can recognize some locations in the village, such as the church, the bridge, and the bakery. Another movie that was shot in Tremolat is **Chocolat**, a romantic drama by Lasse Hallström that was released in 2000. The movie stars Juliette Binoche as a chocolatier who opens a shop in a conservative French village and changes the lives of its inhabitants. You can see some scenes that were filmed at the Cingle de Tremolat and the nearby village of Beynac.

If you are looking for a unique and memorable destination in the area, you should definitely consider visiting Limeuil. This charming village, perched on a hill overlooking the confluence of the Dordogne and the Vézère rivers, is one of the most beautiful villages in France and has a lot to offer to its visitors. Here are some reasons why you should not miss Limeuil on your next trip to France.

– Limeuil has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the prehistoric times. You can discover traces of its past in its medieval architecture, its fortified church, its old port, and its ancient streets. You can also visit the panoramic gardens, located on the site of the former castle, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and learn about the local flora and fauna.
– Limeuil is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the scenic rivers by canoe or kayak, or enjoy a relaxing swim on the sandy beach. You can also hike or bike along the many trails that crisscross the hills and forests around the village. You will be amazed by the diversity of landscapes and wildlife that you will encounter along the way.
– Limeuil is a lively and festive village that hosts many events throughout the year. One of the highlights is the pottery show that takes place on the third weekend of July. This is a great opportunity to admire and buy the creations of local and regional potters, who display their works in the streets and squares of the village. You can also enjoy live music, demonstrations, workshops, and exhibitions during this festive weekend.
–  You will find many restaurants in the village that offer a cozy and friendly atmosphere.

Lalinde is only 6 km away from La maison Louverie. Lalinde is also a fascinating place to explore, as it was the first English bastide town, founded in 1267 by Henry III of England. Lalinde has a rich and turbulent history, as it was besieged several times during the Hundred Years’ War and the Wars of Religion. You can still see traces of its medieval past in its fortified walls, gates, and market hall.

Lalinde is situated on the banks of the Dordogne River, which offers beautiful views and opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and cycling. You can also enjoy a stroll along the Canal de Lalinde, which was built in the 19th century to facilitate river traffic. Lalinde has a lively and friendly atmosphere, with many shops, cafes, restaurants, and markets (Thursday) to discover.

Lalinde is a perfect town to visit, to do groceries, find a good wine shop at the market and to stroll around.

LEGEND OF COULOBRE

Cadouin is famous for its abbey, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the pilgrim route to Compostella. The abbey was founded in 1115 by Robert d’Arbrissel and taken over by Cistercian monks in 1119. It became one of the most important religious centers in the area, attracting pilgrims from all over Europe who came to venerate a piece of cloth said to be part of Jesus Christ’s shroud. The cloth is now known to be from Egypt, but you can still see a copy of it in the small museum next to the cloister. The cloister is the highlight of the abbey, with its flamboyant Gothic style and exquisite stone sculptures. You can admire the intricate details and feel the serene atmosphere of this sacred place.

Cadouin is also a lovely place to stroll around and discover its medieval heritage. Next to the abbey, you can see the halle, which is a covered marketplace set on stone pillars. It dates back to the 15th century and is still used for local events and markets. Around the halle and along the streets, you can find many old buildings and houses that have been restored and decorated with flowers. You can also visit some interesting shops that sell furniture, pottery, pictures, and other items made by local artists. You will be amazed by the creativity and quality of their work.

Cadouin is not only a cultural destination but also a natural one. The town is surrounded by lush green countryside, where you can enjoy hiking, biking, horse riding or canoeing. You can explore the nearby villages, such as Le Buisson de Cadouin, which sits on the edge of the Dordogne river and has a beautiful bamboo garden with more than 180 species of bamboo and 200 species of ornamental grasses. You can also visit the Grottes de Maxange, which are caves with a stunning display of stalactites and stalagmites.

Issigeac is a medieval village that has preserved its history and character for centuries. It is also home to one of the most popular and colorful markets in the area, which takes place every Sunday morning. Here are some of the reasons why Issigeac is so interesting and worth a visit.

One of the main attractions of Issigeac is its Sunday market, which attracts locals and tourists alike. The market is a feast for the senses, with stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, bread, wine, flowers, crafts, and more. You can find everything from local specialties like foie gras and truffles, to exotic spices and fruits. The market is also a great place to mingle with the friendly and lively people of Issigeac, who will gladly share their stories and tips with you.

Another reason to visit Issigeac is its rich and fascinating history, which is evident in its architecture and monuments. The village dates back to the 6th century, when it was founded by a Gallo-Roman nobleman named Isicius. It later became an important religious center, with several churches and monasteries. The most impressive of these is the big church of Saint-Félicien, which was built in the 15th century in a Gothic style. The church has a remarkable history, as it was partly destroyed during World War II by German bombs. According to a legend, the church was not restored after the war because the mayor of Issigeac, who was executed by the Nazis, had made a vow to God that he would not rebuild it if the village was spared from further destruction. Another version of the story says that the district of Périgueux did not provide any funds for the restoration, as a punishment for Issigeac’s resistance during the war. Whatever the truth is, the church remains a symbol of Issigeac’s courage and faith.

Issigeac is also a great place to explore on foot, as it has many narrow streets and alleys that reveal hidden gems and surprises. You can admire the old stone houses, some of which date back to the 13th century, and have beautiful features like carved doors, windows, and fireplaces. You can also discover some of the other monuments of Issigeac, such as the Bishop’s Palace, which was once the residence of the bishops of Sarlat; the Maison des Têtes, which has an ornate façade with sculpted heads; and the Maison du Chapitre, which was once the headquarters of the canons of Saint-Félicien.

Issigeac is a village that has a lot to offer to anyone who loves history, culture, nature, and gastronomy. It is a place where you can enjoy the best of the Dordogne region in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Biron is a small village that boasts an impressive castle, a rich history and a stunning landscape. Here are some reasons why you should visit Biron:

– The castle of Biron is one of the most remarkable monuments in the area. It dates back to the 12th century and was the seat of the powerful Gontaut-Biron family for centuries. You can explore the different parts of the castle, from the medieval keep to the Renaissance chapel, and admire the panoramic views from the terrace.
– The village of Biron is also worth a visit, as it preserves its authentic charm and character. You can stroll along the narrow streets, admire the stone houses and the old church, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
– The surroundings of Biron are ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.