Dordogne Valley

One of the most extraordinary places to experience that history is Rocamadour. Clinging to the side of a limestone cliff, this sacred city has attracted pilgrims for centuries.
Approaching Rocamadour for the first time is unforgettable. Houses, chapels and sanctuaries appear stacked on each other, suspended between the canyon below and the plateau above. Rocamadour is one of France’s most important historic and spiritual sites, drawing visitors from around the world.

No exploration of the Dordogne Valley’s heritage would be complete without a visit to Sarlat-la-Canéda. Widely regarded as one of France’s finest medieval towns, Sarlat captivates visitors with its honey-coloured stone buildings, picturesque narrow lanes and remarkably well-preserved historic centre.
Rich in character and atmosphere, the town offers a wonderful glimpse into the past, while its vibrant markets and lively streets make it one of the Dordogne Valley’s most popular destinations.

Further downstream, Monpazier offers a different perspective on medieval life. Founded in 1284, this beautifully preserved bastide town is one of the finest examples of medieval urban planning in France.
Its elegant arcaded square, geometric street layout and golden stone buildings reveal the ambition and sophistication of the era. Monpazier is also the perfect introduction to the network of bastide towns that developed throughout the region during the Middle Ages.

Another village with a unique story is Turenne. Once the capital of a powerful viscounty that enjoyed considerable independence from the French monarchy, the village rises along a hillside crowned by the remains of its castle. Its noble residences, winding lanes and panoramic views make it one of the most atmospheric villages in the Dordogne Valley.

Collonges-la-Rouge is instantly recognisable for its striking red sandstone architecture. The village appears to glow in shades of crimson and purple, particularly in the evening light.
Its towers, turrets and Renaissance mansions reflect centuries of prosperity and craftsmanship, while its role in creating the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” label has helped inspire heritage preservation across the country.

Stretching along the banks of the Dordogne River, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne enjoys an idyllic setting that perfectly captures the charm of the Dordogne Valley. Here, you can combine both leisure activities and heritage in one place: take a swim in the river, enjoy a traditional gabarre boat trip, then stroll straight into the beautiful medieval town centre to explore its rich history and remarkable architecture, all on foot.

Weekly markets continue a tradition that stretches back centuries. In small villages and bigger towns, farmers, cheesemakers, bakers and local producers fill their stalls with quality products that change with the seasons.

The market in Brive is one of the most famous. The atmosphere is particularly vibrant on Saturday mornings, when the town comes alive with traders and shoppers near the historic centre.

Périgueux offers another excellent market experience. The capital of the Dordogne département combines a rich gastronomic tradition with a lively urban atmosphere, making it one of the region’s most rewarding destinations for food lovers.

Further east, Terrasson provides a more intimate market experience where local products remain firmly rooted in regional traditions.

Sarlat’s famous market deserves a special mention for its setting, occupying streets and squares surrounded by beautifully preserved medieval architecture.

The ingredients that define the Dordogne Valley are among the most celebrated in French cuisine. Walnuts have been cultivated here for centuries and remain a cornerstone of local gastronomy. Truffles attract chefs and food enthusiasts from around the world. Rocamadour goat’s cheese, with its distinctive flavour and protected designation, reflects generations of agricultural expertise. Duck, foie gras, lamb, strawberries, ceps mushrooms and melons all contribute to a culinary identity deeply rooted in local traditions.

The Dordogne Valley also rewards those who enjoy discovering what is poured into the glass.

The vineyards of the region produce a wide range of wines, from elegant reds and crisp whites to celebrated sweet wines. Many estates welcome visitors, offering opportunities to meet producers and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s winemaking heritage.