Wherever you go in the Dordogne, you’ll never be far from a river, making it ideal for cycling,horseriding and leisurely water sports. You’ll have no difficulty finding somewhere to hire a kayak or a paddle board. These activities are popular and well catered for and are a great way to village hop and take in the stunning riverside scenery.
Caves, caverns and castles are in plentiful supply, and are not only interesting and intriguing but also offer a deliciously cool break from the beating summer sun. To get you started, here are just some of the sights worth seeing :
Grotte de Lascaux – a must if you’re visiting the region. These prehistoric caves whose walls areadorned with intricate artwork were discovered in the 1940s. They became so popular among visitors that the original caves were closed for preservation purposes and a replica version was built. In summer, tickets must be bought 3-4 days in advance. A new multimedia centre adds a high-tech slant to the experience.
Grotte du Grand Roc – inside this underground cavern is an amazing display of natural stalactites and stalagmites. It’s a good idea to take a warm top with you as it’s quite chilly inside !
Jardins de Marqueyssac – this stunning garden is in the grounds of an 18th-century chateau, featuring imaginatively sheared hedges and shrubs. Three pathways culminate in panoramic views from a vantage point over the river.
Prehisto Parc in Les Eyzies – the Dordogne’s prehistoric heritage is heavily present throughout the region, but if your children seem less than enthusiastic about visiting yet another old relic then this is the place to go! Wandering around this five-hectare park dotted with life-size and startlingly realistic recreations of people and animals that seem to have been fast-forwarded from Neanderthal times is sure to capture their interest.
Beynac castle and village – this fortified castle is perched atop a cliff, towering over the ochre stonehouses that unfold down the hillside to the Dordogne river. Visit the original keep, admire 15th-century frescoes, and prepare to be amazed by the 360° views of the Vézère valley. The lively village of Beynac is also one of France’s Most Beautiful Villages; it’s picturesque by day and magical by night.
Losse castle – on the banks of the Vézère river between Lascaux and Les Eyzies, this enchantingRenaissance castle comes with fairytale turrets, beautifully furnished rooms and impeccably sculpted gardens.
Ségur-le-Château – a delightfully rickety little town set on a bend in the Auvézère river which oozes mediaeval charm. Its charming mottled stone and half-timbered houses with turrets were once inhabited by nobles. In the summer months, buy delicious traditional fare from locals at the night market and settle down to eat it at long trestle tables set up to do just that. A great way to spend the evening basking in the essence of rural France.
Sélection
Built on a hillock overlooking the Gers countryside, Château Pure Gers is a very beautiful, luxury property available to rent for holidays which are peaceful but no less lively. The luxury fittings, swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, air-condtioning and lift, ensure that you experience the utmost comfort in a region with strong character, geographically and historically rich, offering you a wide range of activities.
Discover
Un Château en Armagnac is a luxurious and highly original chateau, nestling between the vineyards in the gentle hills of Gascony. Originally a defensive structure, this 12th century castle was rebuilt in the 14th century and underwent successive modifications and extensions, resulting in the building
Discover
Located on the borders of the Périgord region between Charentes and Dordogne, this part-mediaeval, part-classical chateau adjoins the village in a superb natural and architectural setting. Benefiting from absolute privacy behind its high walls, it overlooks a variety of hilly and wooded landscapes. With its origins dating back to the 12th century...
Discover
The chateau for rent Pure Luxury Dordogne is the epitome of a luxury countryside property. This luxury holiday rental in the Périgord features a large and fully restored main building, and is the essence of elegant French rustic charm.
Discover
Bask in the substance of five centuries of history at Un Château sur la Garonne. This prestigious castle property with views of the Garonne river sets the scene for a memorable stay in an exceptional location.
Discover
This alluring chateau rental in France's Dordogne region is infused with history and promises an enchanting setting for your holiday. Chateau Heart of Dordogne is listed as a historical monument and comes with an illustrious past - you will even have the opportunity to sit in Napoleon Bonaparte's chair!
Discover
Chateau Heart of Gascony is for anyone who has ever dreamed of renting a castle in France. This 14th-century chateau is everything a castle should be, combining historical features such as turrets, towers and grand fireplaces with modern-day luxury so that guests can live like royalty.
Discover
This exquisite castle is the stuff that dreams are made of. Enjoy a slice of the ultimate French lifestyle at this impeccably preserved luxury chateau among fine furnishings, turreted towers and a carefully curated interior that will make you feel right at home. Not to mention stunning views and a riverside location - perfect for exploring the Dordogne.
Discover
Dream of Dordogne is a luxury chateau for rent in France. This beautiful property in the Dordogne embodies French art de vivre and can accommodate up to twenty-two people. Be inspired by the style, the sophistication and the large spaces inside, and by the gardens and the heated salted pool outside.
Discover
