The Dordogne, a jewel of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is a true open-air museum. It is full of historic and natural sites of rare richness, mainly located in Périgord Noir, a region renowned for its picturesque landscapes and exceptional heritage.
A History Dating Back to the Origins of Humanity
The Paleolithic Era: A Millennial Human Presence
Human traces in Périgord date back over 400,000 years, a glacial period when reindeer and mammoths roamed the region. These majestic animals are immortalized in the cave paintings and engravings of famous caves like Rouffignac and Lascaux. Prehistoric humans, living at the foot of limestone cliffs, left remarkable vestiges in the Vézère and Dordogne valleys, which today form an invaluable collection of prehistoric sites.
The Middle Ages: The Golden Age of Castles
With over 1,000 castles, manor houses, and stately homes, Dordogne is a paradise for lovers of medieval architecture. Most of these monuments are strategically located along the Dordogne, Vézère, and Isle valleys, offering exceptional panoramas and an immersion into the region’s tumultuous history.
The Treasures of Périgord: An Exceptional Journey
Périgord is undoubtedly one of the French departments offering the greatest number of riches.
- Medieval Castles: Dominating the Dordogne and Vézère valleys, these imposing fortresses bear witness to the region’s tumultuous history.
- Prehistoric Sites: The Lascaux and Rouffignac caves, world-famous, reveal cave paintings dating back more than 17,000 years.
- Troglodytic Habitats: Immerse yourself in the world of the first human dwellings nestled in the rock.
- Picturesque Villages: The Périgord Noir is home to several villages ranked among the most beautiful in France, offering postcard-perfect scenery.
- Enchanting Gardens: These landscape masterpieces invite relaxation and wonder.
Between castles, abbeys, bastides, priories, deposits, and troglodytic sites, caves, sinkholes, gardens, and museums, there is no shortage of reasons to stay in the region. Each valley, village, and monument is an invitation to discovery.
Where to Stay for Exploration?
To fully enjoy your stay, choose a gîte or bed and breakfast near major sites, such as those located in Archignac, at Mons et Merveilles. These charming accommodations, ideally situated near Sarlat-la-Canéda, allow easy and quick access to must-see sites.
Among them, the Lascaux Caves in Montignac, famous for their prehistoric frescoes, are a true treasure of human history. The Château de Beynac, perched on a hill, offers breathtaking views of the Dordogne valley. The picturesque village of La Roque-Gageac charms with its stone houses and hanging gardens, while Sarlat-la-Canéda fascinates with its medieval charm and gastronomy. The Marqueyssac Gardens, suspended between sky and earth, offer spectacular views of the valley. The Gouffre de Padirac is a must for speleology enthusiasts, with its underground rivers and rock formations. Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, the capital of prehistory, is full of caves and rock shelters. Finally, the Château de Castelnaud, a living museum dedicated to the art of medieval warfare, completes this rich historical heritage. These sites, combining nature, history, and heritage, make Dordogne a region not to be missed.
A Region of Infinite Riches
These sites are just a glimpse of the many wonders that Périgord Noir has to offer. Between historical heritage, charming villages, and breathtaking natural landscapes, Dordogne is a must-visit destination for discovery enthusiasts.
Périgord Noir is a destination where past and present blend harmoniously. Between the traces of the first humans, medieval castles, and picturesque villages, Dordogne invites you on a timeless journey. One thing is certain: every visitor will leave enchanted by this exceptional region. Pack your bags and set out to discover this magical region that promises a journey through time.
For your holidays in Aquitaine choose the Dordogne, choose the Périgord!
🏡 Cottage and Bed & Breafast Dordogne, Périgord - Holiday rentals
Charming Cottage and Bed and breakfast with swimming-pool in Archignac, Dordogne, Périgord, New Aquitaine
What are the places to see in the Dordogne?
The places to see in the Dordogne are mainly the places located in the Périgord and more precisely in the Black Périgord (Périgord noir). The black Périgord (Périgord noir) is undoubtedly one of the French departments with the greatest number of exceptional riches: Castles, Abbeys, Bastides, Priories, Deposits and troglodyte sites, Caves and Chasms, Gardens and Museums.
What are the tourist places to see in the Périgord?
The medieval castles on the banks of the Dordogne and the Vézère, the world famous Palaeolithic sites such as the caves of Lascaux and Rouffignac, the troglodyte dwellings, the countless religious buildings, the splendid gardens and the most beautiful villages in France.
Which cottage or bed and breakfast to choose near the places and sites to see?
A cottage or bed and breakfast located in the town of Archignac, in Mons and Merveilles, because these accommodations are at the center of some of the most exceptional places and sites to visit.
What are the main sites to visit in the Périgord Noir near the cottage and guest rooms of Mons & Merveilles?
- Lascaux Caves: These famous prehistoric caves located in Montignac were discovered in 1940 and contain cave paintings dating back more than 17,000 years.
- Beynac Castle: Perched on a hill, this medieval castle offers a panoramic view of the Dordogne Valley and has been used as a filming location for many movies.
- La Roque-Gageac: This charming village located on the banks of the Dordogne River is famous for its stone houses, hanging gardens, and breathtaking view of the river.
- Sarlat-la-Canéda: This well-preserved medieval town is famous for its cobbled streets, golden stone houses, and many gourmet restaurants.
- Marqueyssac Gardens: These French-style gardens, located near La Roque-Gageac, offer spectacular views of the Dordogne Valley and feature winding paths, terraces, and boxwood sculptures.
- Padirac Cave: This impressive cave located in the Regional Natural Park of Causses du Quercy is accessible by a large staircase and features underground rivers and rock formations.
- Les Eyzies-de-Tayac: This village is known as the capital of prehistory, with many caves and rock shelters that were inhabited by prehistoric people for thousands of years.
- Castelnaud Castle: This medieval castle, located on a hill overlooking the Dordogne Valley, now houses a museum of medieval warfare.
These are just some of the many magical places to see in the Périgord Noir, but it gives you an idea of the richness of this region.
