Moss 436037 Unsplash.jpgBefore we get to the list of bars we recommend you check out, make sure that you absolutely visit a village fête near you in the summer months.
You can be guaranteed the full French experience as local villagers celebrate their village with a makeshift bar invariably serving beer and punch.
After a few of these refreshments you might find yourself grooving to the band or even some accordion music…You only live once!
And now to those bar recommendations:
1556208909 791740233.jpgMartel – Le Petit Moulin
Also a restaurant, this full bar is definitely pitched to the wine aficionado. With an extensive list of local (particular organic) wines to try and a very knowledgeable owner to guide your choices.
Floirac (near Carennac) – Le Pourquoi Pas
Outside of Belgium, we would wager you would be hard pressed to find a bar in the Dordogne Valley that literally has every type of Belgian (and then some) beers you can imagine. Top boutique beers can also be complimented with an extensive crepe menu if you are feeling peckish- their over speciality.
Montvalent – La Guinguette du Vieux Chêne
This bar hosts a large dance floor and often has live music in the weekends. Adjoining is also a restaurant. If you are canoeing anywhere north of Carennac to Souillac-sur-Dordogne, you can pull up your canoe for a quick drink in the daytime too as this bar borders the Dordogne river.
Saint- Céré – Le Grand Café
The place to be in Saint-Céré where you can watch people go by, over a quiet drink at lunch or in the evening.
Bretenoux – Café de la Poste
The atmospheric heart of the village of Bretenoux. Full of locals, including young footballers or rugby players who often go here to see live matches when they are on. The restaurant here is really good value for money too.
1556541773 1244562075.jpg
Argentat – La Vache qui Fume
At the chapelle Saint Géraud. Set in the middle of the countryside, with a nice atmosphere and live music.
Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne – Le Café des Voyageurs
A great place to meet up with friends. Live music in season.
Monceaux-sur-Dordogne – Bistrot de Pays Chez Maryse
A popular meeting point for fisherman and locals, Maryse is a famous local character.
Brive – Café de Paris
Friendly atmosphere, great place to party. The place to be during/after rugby matches.
Brive – Un Singe en Hiver
A trendy tapas bar for getting together all year round in an original setting with a warm atmosphere. Concerts in summer.
Malemort near Brive: Cartouche & Cravate
Missing the pub? Then head to Cartouche & Cravate. Artisanal beer, pub food and great atmosphere.
Sérandon – Chez Lisa
Traditional cuisine and wood-fired pizzas at the heart of the village. Theme nights and concerts in a friendly, family atmosphere.
Liginiac – Le Maury
Open from early May to late September, restaurant located on the lakefront with a shaded terrace and breathtaking views of the sunsets. In July and August, cocktail bar, Le Petit Canada with outdoor terrace, right on the water’s edge.
Ussel – Côté Lac
A friendly place where you can come and relax with a drink with friends or family, right on the water’s edge.
Capture Decran 2025 09 14 A 14.48.25
6951 Distillerie De L Ort We Are Travellers Expireson 2027 05 09Monpazier – L’Ecureuil café
Restaurant, bistro/wine bar and tea room in the heart of the listed village.
Monpazier – Bistrot 2
Traditional restaurant with bistro and wine bar, serving local produce.
Molières – Le Poquelin
Bar and restaurant open all year round on the village square. Evening events and concerts organised throughout the year.
Beaumont-du-Périgord – Le Jean Bistrot
A friendly bistro serving market cuisine and local Périgord produce, accompanied by fine organic and natural wines.
The Dordogne Valley also offers the chance to taste beers and spirits right at the source. From characterful micro-breweries to high-end distilleries, you’ll find plenty of producers opening their doors for a sip of something special.
