The Dordogne: elegant, authentic and effortlessly relaxing
Set between the beautiful bastide towns of Beaumont-du-Périgord and Monpazier, in the heart of the Dordogne, this region offers the perfect balance of nature, culture and French art de vivre.
It is a destination where time slows down. Long lunches, historic villages, riverside walks and exceptional food are all part of everyday life.
The Dordogne River
The Dordogne River is the lifeline of the region. Canoeing or kayaking along its calm waters is one of the most popular ways to explore the landscape, passing cliffs, castles and quiet riverbanks. There are also plenty of spots for swimming, picnics and peaceful walks along the water’s edge.
Castles and historic villages
The Dordogne has one of the highest concentrations of castles in France. Medieval fortresses, elegant Renaissance châteaux and hilltop villages tell the story of centuries of history.
Exploring these sites offers not only cultural insight, but also breathtaking views over valleys, rivers and vineyards.
Wine: Bergerac, Monbazillac and Pécharmant
The vineyards around Bergerac produce a diverse range of wines, from crisp whites to elegant reds and the famous sweet wines of Monbazillac. The robust reds of Pécharmant are particularly well-known. Many local vineyards welcome visitors for tastings and cellar tours.
Gastronomy and fine dining
This region is a paradise for food lovers. From charming countryside bistros to refined Michelin-listed restaurants, the Dordogne celebrates generous, flavour-driven cuisine. Duck, truffles, walnuts and local wines feature heavily on menus, always prepared with respect for tradition and quality ingredients.
French markets and local produce
The Dordogne is famous for its traditional markets, where local producers sell fresh, seasonal products directly from the source.
Expect colourful stalls filled with fruit and vegetables, walnuts, cheeses, foie gras and regional specialities.
Nearby villages host weekly markets that are perfect for a relaxed morning stroll and gathering ingredients for a long lunch at the gîte.