Places of interest
The Dordogne offers a great selection of interesting places
to visit and variety of events to entertain the visitor.
Brantome
A beautiful town surrounded by the River Dronne and known as the Venice of the Perigord, You can explore museums, caves, the Abbey and also climb to the top of the oldest Clock Tower in France, Enjoy a boat trip down the River Dronne, or hire a canoe. If that sounds to energetic you have a choice of some superb restaurants and there are several picnic spots along the riverbanks.
Brantome
Bourdeilles
This sleepy little riverside village looks like the medieval era never left. The
town's major attraction is its chateau, a complex of two buildings,
one a thirteenth-century fortress, the other a residence inspired
by the Medici family. Inside, the chateau houses an impressive
collection of furniture bequeathed to the state by the former
tenants. There are several lovely places to eat or drink,
or simply picnic by the riverside. We strongly recommend taking
a canoe trip from Brantome, the scenery is stunning and it
is really good fun.
Bourdeilles
Chalus
Chalus is famous for the Chateau where Richard the Lion Heart met his demise. In the summer time there are many pageants and a street market every Friday.The Chateau of Chalus-Chabrol is open from 1st April-30th September.
www.chateaudechalus.com
St-Jean-de-ColeSt-Jean-de-Cole is one of the loveliest villages in the Dordogne. Its main square is surrounded by half-timbered houses, a covered marketplace, a 12th-century church and the Chateau de la Marthonie
St Jean de Cole
Perigueux
This is the capital of Perigord, and is located on the Isle River. The town is divided into three sections, the Cite (old Roman influence), Le Puy St-Front (the medieval section), and the more modern part of town. History buffs will want to visit the Musee de Perigord, in Puy St-Front. This museum is built on the site of a Augustinian monastery, and houses an impressive collection of prehistoric relics, sculptures, and Gallo-Roman mosaics. Many of the artefacts were found locally, which is rich in prehistoric remains. There are many charming narrow streets with shops, restaurants and bars.
Sarlat
The capital of Perigord Noir with elegant merchants houses and pretty cottages streets in mellow, honey-coloured stone. The Saturday market is reputed to be the largest in France where you can sample local produced Fois Gras, truffles and cheeses.
Aubeterre sur Dronne
A listed riverside village built in the shape of amphitheatre this former stronghold is classified as one of France's prettiest villages. The charming square with bustling cafes and restaurants, quaint shops and ancient buildings, riverside beach and leisure facilities make this an attractive place to visit.
Angouleme
The fortified citadel town of Angouleme boasts a long history and is home to the national comic strip centre, fine arts museum and a local archaeology museum.
This town's old quarter is based around the hilltop cathedral, with superb views from the ramparts, and old streets full of interesting buildings and shops. There is also a golf course and recreational lake with sailing and swimming, and on the outskirts of the town there is a new state of the art outdoor and indoor swimming pool with an ice- rink.
Cognac
Situated on the banks of the river Charente this town is home to the famous Martell and Hennessy distilleries. A day out visiting and sampling the produce can be combined with shopping, interesting eating places, and a river boat trips.
Les Eyzies
An interesting mixture of caves, prehistoric sites and museum, these can be enjoyed with the riverside restaurants and markets.
Oradour Sur Glane
The site of a Second World War massacre, this village has been left as it stood
after the tragic events of June 1944. It is a moving experience
walking through the village of the martyrs.
Other Attractions
Atlantic beaches - 2 hours
Futurescope at Poitiers - 2 hours
La Rochelle - 2 hours
Bordeaux - 2 hours
Festivals and Concerts
The summer months bring numerous musical events to the area, from the classical at Piegut to Friday Night Jazz at the Castle of Montbrun.
There are several festivals in the surrounding towns and villages throughout
July and August, most of which include fairground pastimes
and firework displays.
We have our own 2 day event in late August in St Barthelemy
which features local food and wines, dining and fireworks.
In the cities of Limoges and Angouleme the major theatres present their programmes of comedy, music, dance and drama throughout the year.
In Perigeaux there is an annual international summer mime festival, with players performing in the medieval city streets as well as in the theatre.
On a more light-hearted note the French National Conker Championships is held at the nearby village of Abjat.
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