Visit Dordogne & Périgord, Castles, Gastronomy and Prehistoric sites

Historic Allure and Exquisite Flavors

Often overlooked in favor of more famous French regions, the Périgord and Dordogne reveal a captivating allure for those in search of culture and quiet luxury. With our bespoke journeys, explore a land where medieval castles rise above river valleys, and where history is savored alongside some of France’s most exquisite gastronomy. This verdant region, known for its peaceful countryside, is ideal for leisurely walks, scenic bike rides, and serene kayak excursions, inviting travelers to slow down and connect with its timeless beauty.

Michelin starred restaurants

615

Castles

2,000+

Figures in Lascaux caves

10,000kgs

Truffles per year

Meet Dordogne

Home to the legendary Lascaux Caves, the Dordogne region stands as one of the world’s premier destinations for exploring prehistoric art and ancient culture. This area is equally celebrated for its authentic gastronomy, where specialties like artisanal goat cheese, duck, and foie gras offer a true taste of French terroir. As a cultural heartland of southwestern France, the Dordogne beckons discerning travelers with its rich heritage and natural beauty.

Starting from Sarlat, journey along scenic roads that meander through picturesque villages, past iconic prehistoric sites—including the unmissable Grotte de Lascaux—and toward grand medieval fortresses that dot the landscape like sentinels of history.

Discovering the Enchanting Rivers and Landscapes

With an abundance of pristine rivers, the Dordogne and Périgord regions offer a paradise for travelers seeking water-based adventures. Whether it’s a serene day spent canoeing down calm waters, a leisurely ride on a traditional barge, fishing along the riverbanks, or simply taking a refreshing swim, these rivers provide countless ways to connect with the natural beauty of the area.

The Dordogne River, which winds gracefully through the region, holds the unique honor of being the only river in France designated as part of UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves—a testament to its exceptional ecological richness. This remarkable natural setting, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, offers a peaceful retreat for those in search of tranquility and inspiration. From the Vézère and Isle to the Dronne and Auvézère, the choices are plentiful; each river invites you to discover its own character and charm.

Renowned as one of France’s premier regions for canoeing and kayaking, Dordogne offers unparalleled sights just a paddle away. Kayak along the scenic Périgord Noir between Montignac-Lascaux and Les Eyzies de Tayac, where stunning landscapes reveal themselves around each bend. Drift past towering limestone cliffs, ancient castles, prehistoric cave villages, and landmarks of early human history, immersing yourself in a journey along the same river routes that once guided our ancestors. This is a rare opportunity to unwind and appreciate a landscape of timeless beauty, all at your own pace.

Following The Tracks of Cavemen

Périgord is a prehistorical treasure, home to Europe’s densest concentration of ancient sites where early humanity left its mark through stunning cave art, engravings, and sculptures. The world-famous Lascaux caves, masterpieces from the Paleolithic era, transport visitors to a time when majestic Ice Age animals roamed these lands. Their intricate depictions are breathtaking reminders of human creativity and our timeless bond with nature. In the Vézère Valley—a UNESCO World Heritage site—layers of human history stretch back nearly 450,000 years. Here, ancient peoples found shelter in the limestone cliffs sculpted by the Dordogne and Vézère rivers, living, creating, and worshipping. Every cave and site carries the echoes of their lives, allowing visitors to experience an unbroken link to our distant past. This region invites discovery beyond Lascaux and Les Eyzies, offering glimpses into a world where the wild beauty of nature met the early spark of civilization. Walking these storied landscapes, one gains a sense of timelessness and awe—a rare chance to journey into humanity’s origins and witness the legacies that shaped us all. Discover more about Périgord’s heritage revival in collaboration with the Metropolitan Museum here.

Inspecting The Four Périgords

Périgord is divided into four distinct areas, each with a name that reflects its unique landscape, history, and character. In the southeast lies Black Périgord, renowned for its dramatic medieval castles, dark-stone villages, and thick oak forests that create an almost mystical atmosphere. This area, beloved by locals and travelers alike, feels shrouded in ancient secrets, with deep, forested landscapes that give Black Périgord an air of mystery and timeless beauty. To the north, Green Périgord takes its name from its lush, verdant scenery. With numerous rivers, lakes, ponds, and expansive forests, this region flourishes in a humid climate that blankets the landscape in endless shades of green. It’s a paradise for nature lovers, offering an idyllic setting of water and greenery that feels fresh and vibrant year-round. At the heart of the region is White Périgord, known as the administrative and economic hub of Périgord. Here, light-colored limestone buildings and pale stone cliffs lend an overall impression of brightness. The white tones of the architecture and rocky cliffs define this area, giving it a calm, elegant appearance that reflects its central role.

Finally, Purple Périgord in the southwest is famous for the renowned Bergerac vineyards, which cover the landscape in rich, purple hues come autumn. This area, steeped in wine tradition, is also marked by the historic English and French fortresses that recall the fierce conflicts of the Hundred Years’ War. With its blend of vineyards and history, Purple Périgord offers a landscape where the past meets the fruitful present. Each of these areas invites travelers to explore a different facet of Périgord’s rich heritage, from ancient castles and lush forests to limestone cliffs and famed vineyards—a region where every corner tells its own story.

Savoring the Culinary Riches of Périgord and Dordogne

For lovers of fine cuisine and wine, the Périgord and Dordogne regions are culinary treasures. Here, local specialties invite you to indulge in an unforgettable gastronomic experience: savor rich duck or goose foie gras, a delicate black truffle omelette, confit d’oie, and the region’s famed walnut tart.

Thanks to expansive oak woodlands, Périgord truffles flourish here, lending their distinctive aroma to regional dishes. Don’t miss the chance to sample the chestnuts and walnuts, both recognized with AOC labels, as well as the renowned strawberries of Périgord, each celebrated for its exceptional quality. The vineyards of the Dordogne produce a range of distinguished wines, from the robust Bergerac and Pécharmant to the sweet elegance of Monbazillac. Though less famous than Bordeaux, these wines stand as rich complements to any meal and reveal the depth of southwestern French viticulture.

Wandering Around Open-air Markets

On Saturday mornings, the market in the charmingly provincial town of Périgueux is more than just a shopping experience; it’s a window into Périgord’s soul. The town, with its roots in Roman times, comes alive as local producers proudly display the region’s bounty. Walking through the stalls, you’ll encounter vibrant seasonal produce, hand-crafted cheeses, freshly baked breads, and culinary treasures like the celebrated black truffle—an earthy delicacy that has earned Périgord its place on the global gourmet map.

For any food lover, this market offers the rare pleasure of tasting the land’s heritage in every bite. Local vendors, many from generations of farmers and artisans, eagerly share their best offerings—from rich foie gras to bottles of deep, full-bodied Bergerac wine, and the velvety, nutty Cabécou goat cheese that’s as much a symbol of the region as its medieval châteaux.

For those wishing to deepen their experience, a private food tour led by a regional expert is the ultimate way to discover Périgord’s flavors. Imagine being guided through hidden culinary gems, meeting producers in their ateliers, and learning the stories behind each product. This isn’t just a tasting tour; it’s a journey into the region’s culinary heart, where each flavor tells a story of tradition, passion, and a profound respect for the land. A visit to Périgord is, quite simply, an immersion into the tastes and tales that define France’s rich gastronomic heritage.

A complete tour of the region will have you wind through a hilly and undulating landscape: a perfect mirror of quintessential France, with its soft green meadows and vineyards hugging romantic châteaux, farms, and bastides (fortified hilltop villages). To the East, ancient caves and rock shelters conceal Europe’s best treasure trove of prehistoric art. We invite you to reach out and let us craft a journey that unveils these hidden wonders, tailored to your desires and curiosity.