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Périgueux is the 'capital' or principle town of the region. Built in the fertile
valley of the River Isle it is an ancient town with a long history that can be
traced in its architecture and its two distinctive districts. It has become
famous around the world not just because of its history but
for the gastronomic
specialities, with truffle and foie gras, honey and liqueurs being the prize
jewels.
There is much to see and do, such as the
Cathedral, the National and Roman Museums, the medieval quarter, as well as the busy twice-weekly markets.
Bergerac is situated on the Dordogne river. It was a prosperous town in the middle
ages and although it lost a lot of its population in the 17th Century,
the town later revived its
fortunes thanks to wine-shipping and tobacco-growing.
The medieval town is now
surrounded by a thriving modern town which come the summer is vibrant with
festivals, art, music, theatre and gastronomy
Sarlat is officially the most
attractive medieval town in France! It has preserved its ancient towns and cobbled side
streets and despite not being on a
waterway is a must to visit. It has grown up
around an Benedictine monastery founded in the 9th century and unlike many
other towns
is not based upon a hilltop but is built in a bowl-like dip in the
landscape.
As such it was reliant upon ramparts for protection during the
course of its history and parts of which can still be seen.
Without a major
industrial area the town has been preserved maintaining its character,
buildings and calm way of life with many quiet alleyways,
a good market and
selection of shops and restaurants.
The Dordogne is one of the most beautiful and unspoilt parts of south west France.
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