Summary
Location Map: Where Is the Dordogne and Why Go?
The Dordogne département (24) is located in the Aquitaine region of southwestern France. The region is often referred to as the Périgord, a name that predates the French Revolution. The remarkable beauty of the Dordogne features rivers carving through limestone, creating breathtaking cliffs and extensive caves housing ancient art.
Moreover, the Dordogne is known for its exquisite cuisine, particularly truffles and foie gras, making it a culinary hotspot. Duck and goose are prevalent in local dishes, showcasing unique cooking methods.
While the area boasts numerous châteaux, it remains less crowded than the famous castles of the Loire Valley.
Getting Your Bearings in the Périgord
The Dordogne region comprises four distinct areas, with primary market towns marked by orange dots on the maps:
- The Périgord Verte (green), known for its lush hills surrounding Nontron and a network of rivers.
- The Périgord Blanc (white) features exposed limestone, utilized as a building material.
- The Périgord Pourpre (purple) is a notable wine region, producing wines named after towns like Bergerac and Monbazilac.
- The Périgord Noir (black) attracts many travelers for its prehistoric painted caves and rich flora, especially walnuts and black truffles. Les-Eyzies-de-Tayac is home to the National Museum of Prehistory, focusing on the area’s ancient heritage.
Exploring the Périgord Noir
If you appreciate history, ancient castles, and natural beauty, exploring the Périgord Noir may require more than a week. Renting a vacation home allows you to fully immerse in the region and explore its numerous attractions.
Furthermore, a car is essential for navigating this picturesque countryside, despite the availability of train stations in Les Eyzies and Sarlat. The proximity of Sarlat, Les Eyzies, and Montignac forms a “golden triangle” where historical sites are abundant.
Recommendations for a Short Trip
Les Eyzies – Visit the National Museum of Prehistory, enjoy lunch at the Cro-Magnon Hotel, and explore the Font de Gaume cave.
Beynac – Cap Blanc – Castelnaud – Discover the stunning views from the Château de Beynac, admire the carved horses of Cap Blanc, and learn about siege machinery at Château de Castelnaud.
Village Troglodytique de la Madeleine and Roque St-Christophe – Visit this ancient settlement dating back 50,000 years.
Don’t forget to allocate time for Lascaux!
Sarlat: Your Base in the Périgord
Sarlat, established in the eighth century, features beautifully restored 17th- and 18th-century architecture, attracting visitors from around the globe. Positioned in the heart of the Périgord Noir, it serves as an excellent base for exploration.
Although Sarlat is a bustling tourist town, filled with shops selling gourmet products like foie gras, the culinary delights and charming scenery make it a worthwhile stop. Experience the vibrant Saturday morning market, which is a must-see event.
Located 550 km from Paris, Sarlat has various dining options and is accessible via the Paris-Souillac-Sarlat and Toulouse-Souillac-Sarlat train lines. The journey from Paris takes approximately six and a half hours.
Beynac, Château de Beynac, and Castelnaud: Castles for a Day
Beynac is a delightful town, and the Château de Beynac offers a captivating glimpse into history with its recent restoration. The chateau opens daily for visitors during the season.
Additionally, the Château de Castelnaud is a fascinating destination, providing insight into medieval warfare. It features a comprehensive museum and interactive programs for kids, enhancing the educational experience.
Recommended Prehistoric Sites
The Périgord Noir is rich in prehistoric sites, with numerous caves within a short distance of Sarlat. Here are some highlights:
- Lascaux II – While access to the original Lascaux cave is restricted, a nearby replica offers a fantastic recreation of the stunning cave paintings.
- Cap Blanc – Visit this site to witness a remarkable frieze featuring life-sized horses carved from rock.
- Font de Gaume – Explore cave paintings that date back approximately 12,000 years.
- La Roque Saint Christophe – This impressive natural fortress offers breathtaking views and educational trails for families.
Resources for Visiting
The compact nature of the Dordogne, particularly the Périgord Noir, allows travelers to uncover hidden gems simply by exploring. While a map may be beneficial for short visits, spontaneity often leads to the most memorable experiences.
To enhance your exploration, consider obtaining a copy of The Paths of Prehistory in Périgord. This informative book provides insights into the region’s history, alongside vivid photographs and accurate maps.
