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Map Of France Dordogne
Introduction
Located in southwestern France, Dordogne is a region known for its scenic countryside, medieval castles, and prehistoric caves. With so much to explore, it’s hard to know where to start. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.
Top Attractions
Lascaux Caves
One of the most famous attractions in Dordogne is the Lascaux Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These prehistoric caves contain some of the earliest known examples of art, including animal paintings and engravings. Although the original caves are closed to the public, a replica cave, Lascaux IV, offers visitors the chance to experience the artwork up close.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda is a charming medieval town that’s well worth a visit. With its narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful stone buildings, and bustling markets, it’s a great place to wander and soak up the atmosphere. Don’t miss the Saturday morning market, where you’ll find fresh produce, local crafts, and delicious snacks.
Château de Beynac
The Château de Beynac is one of the most impressive castles in Dordogne, perched high on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s been used as a filming location for several movies, including “Chocolat” and “Les Visiteurs.” The castle is open to visitors, and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Hidden Gems
Le Gouffre de Padirac
Le Gouffre de Padirac is a natural wonder that’s not to be missed. This underground cave system features an enormous chasm that’s over 100 meters deep, as well as a crystal-clear underground river. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river and explore the caves on foot.
Château de Puymartin
The Château de Puymartin is a lesser-known castle that’s worth seeking out. Dating back to the 13th century, it’s been beautifully restored and offers a glimpse into the lives of the nobility in medieval times. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghost of a lady in white, so keep your eyes peeled!
Les Jardins de Marqueyssac
Les Jardins de Marqueyssac is a stunning garden that’s perched high on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River. With over 150,000 boxwood trees trimmed into elaborate shapes, it’s a sight to behold. Don’t miss the panoramic views from the Belvedere, a viewpoint that’s 130 meters above the river.
Food Scene
Dordogne is known for its delicious cuisine, which features plenty of local produce like foie gras, truffles, and walnuts. Some must-try dishes include confit de canard (duck cooked in its own fat), magret de canard (duck breast), and tarte aux noix (walnut tart). Wash it all down with a glass of local wine, such as Bergerac or Monbazillac.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Dordogne can be a pricey destination, especially during peak season. To save money, consider visiting in the shoulder season (May or September), when the weather is still mild but the crowds have thinned out. You can also save money by staying in a gîte (a self-catered vacation rental) or camping.
Outdoor Adventures
Dordogne is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, canoeing, and more. The Dordogne River is a popular spot for canoeing, with several rental companies offering trips of varying lengths. The countryside is also crisscrossed with hiking and cycling trails, offering stunning views of the landscape.
Family-Friendly Activities
With its castles, caves, and medieval towns, Dordogne is a great destination for families. Kids will love exploring the prehistoric caves at Lascaux and Le Gouffre de Padirac, as well as visiting the treetop adventure parks in the region. Many of the castles also offer special activities for kids, such as treasure hunts and knight-themed workshops.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider visiting the Château de Bonaguil. This castle is located outside of the main tourist areas, and offers a glimpse into the more rural side of Dordogne. Alternatively, head to the Grotte de Rouffignac, a lesser-known cave system that’s home to some of the most impressive prehistoric art in the region.
Natural Wonders
Dordogne is home to some stunning natural landscapes, from the rolling hills and valleys to the dramatic cliffs and gorges. One of the most impressive natural wonders is the Gorges du Verdon, a deep canyon that’s often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” The canyon is popular with hikers and kayakers, and offers some truly breathtaking views.
Vibrant Nightlife
Dordogne may be known for its quaint villages and medieval castles, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a vibrant nightlife scene. Sarlat-la-Canéda is a great place to start, with plenty of bars and restaurants that stay open late. For something a little more lively, head to Bergerac, which has a thriving bar scene and plenty of live music.
Local Markets
Dordogne is famous for its markets, which are a great place to stock up on fresh produce, local crafts, and souvenirs. Some of the best markets include the Saturday market in Sarlat-la-Canéda, the Sunday market in Issigeac, and the Wednesday market in Bergerac. Don’t miss the chance to try some of the local delicacies, such as foie gras and truffles.
Beaches and Mountains
Although Dordogne is primarily known for its countryside and medieval towns, it’s also home to some stunning beaches and mountains. The Atlantic coast is just a few hours’ drive away, with plenty of beaches to choose from. Alternatively, head to the Pyrenees mountains, which offer some incredible hiking and skiing opportunities.
Cultural Immersion
Dordogne is a region with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visit the Musée National de Préhistoire in Les Eyzies to learn more about the region’s prehistoric past, or explore some of the many châteaux and castles that dot the countryside. Don’t forget to sample some of the local cuisine and wine!
Art and Music Scene
Dordogne has a thriving arts and music scene, with plenty of galleries, festivals, and concerts to choose from. Sarlat-la-Canéda is home to several galleries that showcase the work of local artists, while Bergerac hosts a jazz festival every summer. Don’t miss the chance to attend a classical concert in one of the region’s beautiful churches or châteaux.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore Dordogne is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Join a guided tour of Sarlat-la-Canéda to learn more about the town’s history and architecture, or head out into the countryside to explore some of the region’s many hiking trails. Alternatively, join a food tour to sample some of the delicious local cuisine.
Architectural Marvels
Dordogne is home to some of the most impressive architecture in France, from medieval castles and châteaux to beautiful churches and cathedrals. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Cathedral Saint-Front in Périgueux, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s considered one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Europe. The Château de Castelnaud is another must-see, with its impressive collection of medieval weapons and armor.
Historical Sites
Dordogne is a region with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. The town of Les Eyzies is home to several prehistoric sites, including the famous La Roque Saint-Christophe, a cliffside fortress that was inhabited by humans for over 55,000 years. Meanwhile, the Château de Hautefort is a stunning example of Renaissance architecture, with beautifully landscaped gardens to match.
Biking Routes
Dordogne is a great destination for cyclists, with plenty of scenic routes to explore. The Vézère Valley