Whether your passion is prehistoric sites, medieval history, gourmet food and wine or active days outdoors, the Dordogne has something for everyone. Do as much or as little as you like.
- MarketsFresh local produce and delicacies, almost every day somewhere nearby.
- Châteaux and gardensMagnificent castles, enchanting gardens and medieval villages.
- On the waterCanoeing, kayaking or a gabarre cruise on the Dordogne.
- Walking and cyclingWell-marked trails right on your doorstep.
- PrehistoryWorld-famous caves and sites with ancient art.
- Wine and foodVineyards, tastings and marchés gourmands under the stars.
Your gîte has guides and recommendations, and the team at the Belvès Office de Tourisme is always happy to help.
Beautiful villages
The Dordogne is renowned for its historic villages and towns, many officially among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, and all within easy reach of La Banne.
Sarlat-la-Canéda is a must-see, with its maze of cobbled alleyways and lively atmosphere. The bastide of Monpazier is perfectly preserved and full of character. Limeuil sits at the confluence of the Dordogne and the Vézère, and Beynac-et-Cazenac, crowned by its château, offers breathtaking views.
Closer still are Bergerac, Le Bugue, Beaumont-du-Périgord and Saint-Cyprien. La Roque-Gageac is built dramatically into the cliffside, and Domme offers an unparalleled panorama over the valley.
The Dordogne river
With its dramatic gorges, towering cliffs and tree-lined banks, the Dordogne offers endless adventure and relaxation. Canoe and kayak centres line the river, with routes for every level; one of our favourites is the Base Municipale at Castelnaud-la-Chapelle.
For a slower pace, take a gabarre, the traditional flat-bottomed boat, from Beynac or La Roque-Gageac. Natural river beaches are perfect for a picnic or a swim, and fly fishing is popular too.
Châteaux and gardens
Château de Beynac is a striking medieval fortress high above the valley. Château des Milandes is famous for Josephine Baker, the American jazz singer and Resistance heroine, and for its falconry displays. Near Monpazier, Château de Biron spans centuries of architecture; the ruins of Commarque reveal a prehistoric and medieval past, and Castelnaud brings history to life with its collection of medieval weaponry.
Garden lovers are spoilt for choice: the clipped box hedges of the Jardins de Marqueyssac, the formal gardens of Eyrignac and the peaceful water gardens at Carsac.
Nearby markets
Almost every town and village has its own market day, with fresh produce, regional delicacies, flowers, crafts and local wines.
- Belvès, Saturday, a short drive or a scenic walk away
- Sarlat, Saturday, with a wide selection and a lively atmosphere
- Saint-Cyprien, Sunday, one of the best-loved in the Dordogne
- Le Bugue, Tuesday
- Monpazier, Thursday, with a flower and plant fair in May
Prehistoric sites and caves
The most famous of all is Lascaux IV in Montignac, an outstanding museum that brings the cave art to life with stunning replicas. Closer to home, troglodyte dwellings lie hidden beneath the main square of Belvès.
The Gouffre de Proumeyssac, the "Cathedral of Crystal", dazzles with its vast cavern in Audrix. Les Grottes de Maxange in Le Buisson-de-Cadouin are famous for rare crystal formations, the Roc de Cazelle lies in Les Eyzies, the prehistoric capital of France, and La Roque Saint-Christophe is an extraordinary cliffside settlement above the Vézère.
Hot air ballooning
Drift with the wind above lush landscapes and magnificent châteaux. Choose a scenic group flight or a private one for a special occasion.
Popular operators include Périgord Dordogne Montgolfières in Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Montgolfière et Châteaux in Beynac-et-Cazenac and Montgolfières du Périgord in La Roque-Gageac.
Marchés gourmands
Throughout the summer, trestle tables fill the squares and halles of the bastide villages for an evening of delicious food, local wine and live entertainment. Pick dishes from the stalls, sample local wines or bring your own bottle, and mingle with locals and fellow holidaymakers. The Belvès marché gourmand on Wednesday evenings is not to be missed.
Horse riding
Close to Belvès, Bos Cheval Rouge offers lessons, short rides and full-day outings. Equi'Périgord lies between Les Eyzies and Saint-Cyprien, and Les Cavaliers de la Vézère in Sergeac, near Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, rides through some of the Dordogne's most enchanting landscapes.
Wine and cuisine
Château de Monbazillac near Bergerac is famous for its sweet dessert wines. Other favourites include Domaine de la Tuque near Biron, Domaine de la Voie Blanche near Saint-Cyprien, Domaine du Haut Pécharmant near Bergerac, Domaine du Petit Batou in Boisse, Vignoble des Verdots in Conne-de-Labarde, Domaine l'Ancienne Cure in Colombier and Le Vin de Domme.
Hidden Gems Winery Tours and Dordogne Vineyard Tours collect you and drop you off, and both also host tastings right here at Domaine de La Banne. For cooking, Cook Dordogne in Saint-Cyprien offers demonstrations and full or half-day courses.
