Just 2.5 hours' drive from Bordeaux lies one of the most atmospheric corners of France — the medieval town of Sarlat, in the Périgord, at the very heart of the Dordogne.
This is a route I love especially — it is wonderfully many-sided and always leaves a strong impression.
First of all, this is one of the great gastronomic regions of France. Here culinary traditions are preserved in their most authentic form: duck, foie gras, walnut delicacies and, in winter, the famous black truffle, considered one of the finest in the world.
Secondly, the Dordogne is a region of living history. Little villages ranked among the most beautiful in France, medieval castles on cliffs and in the valleys, where every stone holds the memory of knights, fortresses and the Hundred Years' War.
And finally, a very special part of the route — the Lascaux cave, a unique monument of prehistoric art. Its cave paintings, created more than 18,000 years ago, are called the "Sistine Chapel" of the Palaeolithic. It is an encounter with the very origins of human creativity, and it is profoundly moving.
The Dordogne cannot be put into words — it must be lived, seen and felt for yourself.
Day 1 — Medieval villages and the Dordogne valley
A journey into one of the most picturesque regions of France.
- The legendary villages of Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac, set on the cliffs above the Dordogne river.
- If you wish, a ride on a traditional gabare boat with views of the castles and cliffs.
- Lunch in the gastronomic Périgord.
- Discovering Sarlat-la-Canéda, a medieval town with remarkably preserved architecture.
- Overnight in the Sarlat area.
Day 2 — Castles and the history of the Périgord
The journey through historic Dordogne continues.
- A visit to Castelnaud castle, one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in the region.
- The gardens and château de Marqueyssac, panoramic views and little villages.
- Gastronomic stops and prehistoric sites.
- A visit to the Lascaux cave.
- Return to Bordeaux in the evening.