Dordogne
The Dordogne region, tucked into the southwest of France, is rich with prehistoric sites, medieval towns, and dramatic countryside. Visitors are often drawn to the Vézère Valley, where caves like Lascaux and Font-de-Gaume showcase remarkable Ice Age art. Hilltop villages such as Domme, Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac offer panoramic views over the river and are best explored slowly, on foot. Castles are scattered throughout the region—Château de Castelnaud and Château de Beynac both provide insight into the area’s medieval past and its role during the Hundred Years’ War.
Cultural life in the Dordogne tends to be seasonal but strong, with open-air concerts, theatre performances, and local festivals taking over town squares in the warmer months. Sarlat-la-Canéda, with its honey-coloured stone buildings and cobbled lanes, plays host to theatre festivals and traditional markets. The pace is gentle, but the region is far from sleepy—river kayaking, hot air ballooning, and cycling are popular ways to explore the landscape. The Dordogne’s strong ties to its past are part of what make it such a compelling destination, whether you’re following ancient pilgrim routes or stepping into Renaissance-era gardens.
Food in the Dordogne is steeped in regional identity. Known for truffles, duck confit, foie gras, walnuts, and earthy seasonal fare, the cuisine here reflects both rural tradition and a deep respect for local produce. Weekly markets—especially in towns like Issigeac and Périgueux—are central to life, and offer everything from cheeses to handmade pâtés. Wine from nearby Bergerac complements meals beautifully, while smaller producers offer tastings that are often more personal and relaxed than those in the more famous wine regions. Cooking courses and farm visits are also easy to arrange, giving visitors a direct connection to the flavours of the region.
Highlights of The Dordogne
Our Favourite Hotels in The Dordogne
Moulin de L’Abbaye
Situated on the banks of the River Dronne in the heart of Brantôme, the most picturesque of Dordogne towns, the Moulin de L’Abbaye is a charming and friendly ivy-clad hotel divided into three separate buildings. The mill itself provided the town with flour, wool and electricity and now houses the comfortable lounge bar and restaurant situated on the river’s edge with a tree-shaded terrace.
The 20 rooms are beautifully furnished and decorated in a classical and cosy French style and are also located in an annexe opposite, as well as in a 13th century townhouse which is the former home of the town’s abbot and is on the other side of the river, a five-minute walk. No lift.
Chateau de la Treyne
Dating back to the 14th century, the Château de la Treyne overhangs a quiet stretch of the Dordogne River close to Souillac, a 30-minute drive from the picturesque town of Sarlat.
This is the most spectacular château-hotel in the Dordogne and a stay here is a sublime experience thanks to the splendid setting, sumptuous furnishings, delicious cuisine. A drive through 300 acres of parkland brings you to the beautiful Baroque gardens, home to the tennis court and outdoor heated swimming pool. Inside, you’ll find intimate salons, 17 sumptuous bedrooms and a wood-panelled dining room (one Michelin star)leading to a majestic terrace which overlooks the river.
Chateau des Vigiers
Located a little over an hour east of Bordeaux, the Château des Vigiers is just 20 minutes from Bergerac’s airport and an ideal base for exploring the region’s famous vineyards.
The château dates back to the 12th century and is surrounded by its own expansive vineyards, rolling parkland and a spectacular 27-hole golf course. The 25 rooms in the castle are all individually furnished in a classical style that reflects the history and character of the surroundings. Guests are invited to relax in the many comfortable lounges or cosy bar and can enjoy a game in the billiards room. There is a gastronomic restaurant in the château serving fine dishes in an elegant dining room and a brasserie, located in the former barrel store, which serves more informal meals. Both have terraces for outside dining. There is a small wellness centre, a tennis court and an outdoor swimming pool. Hotel open 29 March – 10 November.
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