Sarlat-la-Canéda
The most famous town in the region and one of the most renowned and popular in France. It is also one of the most attractive. Often referred to simply as Sarlat, the town is actually twinned with its less famous neighbour and is more correctly known as Sarlat le Caneda.
Sarlat is located in the region known as Périgord Noir. Destined to be besieged by tourists at almost any time of year Sarlat is a beautiful, well restored town a few kilometres north of the River Dordogne. The old town, dating from medieval and renaissance times, is a pleasure to visit, especially during spring and autumn, or in the early morning. If you can catch the morning sun on the yellow sandstone buildings, all the better.
Sarlat is located in the region known as Périgord Noir. Destined to be besieged by tourists at almost any time of year Sarlat is a beautiful, well restored town a few kilometres north of the River Dordogne. The old town, dating from medieval and renaissance times, is a pleasure to visit, especially during spring and autumn, or in the early morning. If you can catch the morning sun on the yellow sandstone buildings, all the better.
Beynac
Beynac is one of the most beautiful villages in France and lies on the banks of the River Dordogne, south-west of Sarlat. Opposite Beynac castle, on the opposite bank of the river, is its traditional enemy, Castelnaud castle.
The pretty village of Beynac spreads along the north bank of the River Dordogne, and above it is Beynac Castle. The narrow streets are lined with white and yellow stone buildings in traditional Dordogne style.
The pretty village of Beynac spreads along the north bank of the River Dordogne, and above it is Beynac Castle. The narrow streets are lined with white and yellow stone buildings in traditional Dordogne style.
Rocamadour
The medieval town of Rocamadour, a vertiginous city dominating the Alzou canyon, is a wonder of balance.
Impressive is the view of the town, in fact a small village with a global reputation, from l'Hospitalet! Built in successive layers on the cliff, it clings 120 metres above a ravine through which the Alzou flows. Its houses, roofs and churches seem to be part of the rock.
What genius conceived and built Rocamadour? Perhaps your visit will reveal the answer. Rocamadour was already admired in the Middle Ages. In the 12th century, pilgrims from all over Europe came here to pray. The village housed the relics of Saint Amadour (the famous hermit who found solitude in Rocamadour). It was also the revered shrine of the Black Madonna.
Impressive is the view of the town, in fact a small village with a global reputation, from l'Hospitalet! Built in successive layers on the cliff, it clings 120 metres above a ravine through which the Alzou flows. Its houses, roofs and churches seem to be part of the rock.
What genius conceived and built Rocamadour? Perhaps your visit will reveal the answer. Rocamadour was already admired in the Middle Ages. In the 12th century, pilgrims from all over Europe came here to pray. The village housed the relics of Saint Amadour (the famous hermit who found solitude in Rocamadour). It was also the revered shrine of the Black Madonna.
Domme
Imagine a picturesque village, perched high on a rock, with narrow, cobbled streets winding between old half-timbered houses. This is Domme, one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’. The village exudes a medieval atmosphere, with an impressive fortress and a past dating back to the 13th century.
Stroll along the old city walls and enjoy the breathtaking views over the Dordogne valley. Explore the underground caves, where stalactites and stalagmites form a fairytale spectacle. Or wander through the cosy streets, where you will find numerous shops, cafés and restaurants.
La Roque-Gageac
With its brown tiles, typical roofs, old-world charm and breathtaking scenery, a stroll through the village of La Roque-Gageac is an invitation to daydream...
In front of the 14th-century church of La Roque-Gageac, take time to admire its typical bell tower and its Périgord lauze roof. From the church's small courtyard, take out your camera to capture the exotic garden: palms, banana trees, fig trees, cacti and even bamboo grow in this natural solarium!
Continue your walk by stopping off in front of the Manoir de Tarde, which dominates the heart of the village. Further afield, don't miss a visit to the Fort de La Roque-Gageac. This ancient fortress, built in the 12th century, overlooks the River Dordogne and offers an exceptional panoramic view of the valley.
In front of the 14th-century church of La Roque-Gageac, take time to admire its typical bell tower and its Périgord lauze roof. From the church's small courtyard, take out your camera to capture the exotic garden: palms, banana trees, fig trees, cacti and even bamboo grow in this natural solarium!
Continue your walk by stopping off in front of the Manoir de Tarde, which dominates the heart of the village. Further afield, don't miss a visit to the Fort de La Roque-Gageac. This ancient fortress, built in the 12th century, overlooks the River Dordogne and offers an exceptional panoramic view of the valley.