The Dordogne-Périgord region in France offers travelers a mix of old castles, underground caves, and peaceful river trips. Visitors can explore historic towns, walk through prehistoric caves, see a cliffside fort, and canoe down the Vézère River. Along quiet country roads, travelers can spot many of the region’s famous châteaux surrounded by farms and forests. There are many places to stay, from large villas to small bed and breakfasts to city hotels.
Périgueux, the region’s biggest city, has a well-preserved old town with buildings from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. It grew from two ancient towns that later joined together. Its most famous landmark is the Saint-Front Cathedral, and visitors can also see an old Roman tower and enjoy views from another tower nearby.
A short drive away is Brantôme, a pretty village built along a river. It sits below a large abbey that was built by monks near an even older cave settlement carved into the cliff. The abbey buildings are still standing today and now house a town hall and a museum. Canals and old bridges built by the monks run through the village.
Nearby, the cliffs of La Roque Saint-Christophe hold the remains of a huge cave settlement that once housed about a thousand people. People lived there from ancient times until the 1500s, using carved-out spaces for homes, a church, and even a workshop. Today, visitors can see replicas of the tools once used to build in the rock.
The Vézère River, which flows below these cliffs, is now a popular spot for canoeing. Trips suit beginners and experienced paddlers alike, passing old castles like Château de Belcayre and Château de Clerans along the way.
One of the most famous castles on the river is Château de Losse, which dates back hundreds of years. Originally built as a fort, it was later turned into a grand home. After years of neglect, different owners restored it over time, and today it is open to the public, with beautiful gardens and guided tours of its historic rooms.
The region also has impressive caves. The Tourtoirac Cave is fully wheelchair accessible and features rock formations shaped over millions of years, along with light shows. The Villars Cave, one of the largest cave systems in the area, contains ancient paintings that are rare in this part of France, including a rare image of a human figure.
For a taste of local life, visitors can browse the region’s markets. Périgueux has a daily indoor market, while Brantôme holds a weekly market and a summer night market. The town of Le Bugue is known for its lively Tuesday market, offering fresh produce and local treats like chestnut cake.
Travelers have many lodging choices. La Chartreuse des Ormeaux offers large self-catering villas on a private estate. Maison Les Grands Chênes is a bed and breakfast set inside a protected oak forest. Le Moulin de l’Abbaye, located in Brantôme, is a historic hotel with several dining options, including a Michelin-starred restaurant by the river.
Altogether, the Dordogne offers visitors a rich and relaxing way to experience the real character of France.