Best things to do in Dordogne

The Dordogne is a sliver of idyllic scenery packed with depth, history, colours and flavours. Prehistoric cave-dwellers, mediaeval nobles, and a long lineage of no-nonsense bon vivants have woven a rich tapestry of tales, testaments and landscapes that epitomizes one of France’s most bucolic regions.  

Bordered by the Auvergne mountains to the east and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Dordogne is made up of undulating countryside, forests, and rivers, which makes for delightfully photogenic scenery. 

Dordogne is actually a département in south-west France and part of the wider Périgord region which abounds with rivers, the four biggest being the Dordogne (the fifth longest river in France), the Vézère, the Dronne and the Isle. The region is divided up into four parts, each named after a colour: Périgord Noir (black), Périgord Blanc (white), Périgord Vert (green), and Périgord Pourpre (purple).  

It’s a foodie’s paradise, where good living is taken seriously. Cast the scales aside and feast on some of the most decadent dishes that France has to offer; this is the land of truffles, foie gras, slow-cooked duck and melt-in-the-mouth potatoes cooked in goose dripping. 

 

Intro

About the Region

About the Region

Périgueux – this old Roman town is the capital of the Dordogne and instantly recognisable by thecluster of domed roofs on St Front cathedral which is vaguely reminiscent of the Sacré Coeur in Paris. 

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Food and Drink in Dordogne

Food and Drink in Dordogne

The food here is rich, nourishing and indulgent and largely inspired by two essential ingredients - duck and fat!

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Best things to do in Dordogne

Best things to do in Dordogne

Wherever you go in the Dordogne, you’ll never be far from a river, making it ideal for cycling,horseriding and leisurely water sports.

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What's On in Dordogne - Dates for the Diary

What's On in Dordogne - Dates for the Diary

Many towns and villages in the region hold their own in the summer, such asLanquais, Monpazier, Salignac-Evyvigues, Issigeac and Belves.

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Good to know

Good to know

The Périgord region is divided into four areas, each named after a colour.

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Repères

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  • Charentes ou Dordogne

    Charentes ou Dordogne

    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...

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  • Dordogne ou Perigord

    Dordogne ou Perigord

    A candy pink castle for a sweet stay in France! Enjoy all the elegance and grandeur of a castle without the stuffiness at this refreshingly vibrant chateau.

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  • Chateau Heart of Dordogne

    Chateau Heart of Dordogne

    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!

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  • Spirit of Dordogne

    Spirit of Dordogne

    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.

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  • Dream of Dordogne

    Dream of Dordogne

    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.

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