The Périgord in 10 must-see places
What if this year you went on holiday to the Dordogne, also known as the Périgord? Whether you already know the region or not, you will be surprised! It is full of historical and natural treasures.
But have you ever thought of cycling through the Périgord? Cycling is undoubtedly the ideal way to take time to soak up the local heritage and enjoy the rich gastronomy without feeling guilty.
If you don’t know where to start, we have selected for you the 10 must-see places in and around the Dordogne.
1. The Lascaux cave (Montignac)
It doesn’t even need to be introduced anymore! The famous cave with its prehistoric paintings and engravings is no longer open to the public in order to preserve the works. But don’t worry: you can visit the two life-size reconstructions, Lascaux II and Lascaux IV, the latter offering an even more faithful reproduction than the original.
2. Rocamadour
This is an unusual village! Built into the side of the cliff in medieval times, Rocamadour is still a major pilgrimage site today.
3. National Museum of Prehistory (Les Eyzies)
Around Les Eyzies there are many caves and other prehistoric sites. It is therefore not surprising that the village has been chosen to house the National Museum of Prehistory. This place will delight enthusiasts of this historical period.
4. The Padirac Chasm
This impressive chasm plunges you into a magical atmosphere with its play of light and spectacular walls. A boat ride on the underground river adds even more magic to this visit.
5. Sarlat-la-Canéda
This charming town in the Périgord Noir attracts many tourists every year with its medieval appearance. A walk in the old town of Sarlat will take you back in time and allow you to admire the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Don’t be afraid to get lost in the maze of narrow streets to get a feel for this picturesque town.
6. The Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
It is not the only beautiful medieval castle in the region, and its rival, the castle of Beynac, is not going to say otherwise! The visit to Castelnaud castle is however very lively with many animations and the dominant position of the castle will offer you a splendid view.
7. Collonges-la-Rouge
We had to choose among the countless “Most Beautiful Villages of France” in the region, but it has to be said that Collonges-la-Rouge has something unique with its red stone houses (the village lives up to its name). It is not without reason that it is the birthplace of the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France!
8. The Marqueyssac gardens (Vézac)
Listed as one of France’s remarkable gardens, the magnificent romantic and picturesque gardens of Marqueyssac will delight young and old alike. Even today, the hundred-year-old box trees in this 22-hectare park are pruned by hand.
9. The Milandes Castle
A beautiful castle to visit to discover the eventful life of Josephine Baker, this extraordinary woman who entered the Pantheon at the end of 2021. She lived in this castle with her 12 adopted children in the 1950s, before having to sell it in 1964 due to financial problems.
10. The Fortified House of Reignac
An unusual place to end this list on a high note? The Maison Forte de Reignac is a castle-cliff which, as its name suggests, seems to melt into the rock. The most curious can visit the rooms of this intriguing building.
This list was not easy to make because the Périgord is full of other remarkable sites! Discover our cycling tour in the Périgord for even more surprising places: we organise it, you discover it!