Surroundings / Region
The Dordogne Périgord, which is part of the Aquitaine region in southwestern France, is one of the largest and most picturesque departments in France and possesses a huge number of protected historical buildings. The Dordogne Périgord is divided into four colors according to the diversity of its landscapes: Périgord Vert, Périgord Blanc, Périgord Pourpre and Périgord Noir. The Périgord Noir (“black” as in dense oak and chestnut forests), which includes Sarlat-la-Canéda, is one of the most attractive parts of the Dordogne. This area, known for its gastronomy, relaxed way of life and internationally known cultural sites, is the perfect destination for a short or longer vacation. Here you will discover unspoiled nature, vast landscapes and an abundance of magical sights. Among them are:
- prehistoric sites and caves: La Roque-Gageac, La Rocque-Saint-Christophe, Grottes du Roc de Cazelle, Grotte de Villars, Grottes de Lascaux, Musée Nationale de la Prehistoire in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac
- Medieval and Renaissance castles: Château des Milandes, Château de Castelnaud, Château de Beynac, Château de Commarque, Château de Hautefort
- medieval villages of character, full of art and history: Sarlat, Domme, Rocamadour, Village de la Madeleine
- stunning gardens: Parc de Marqueyssac, les Jardins D’eau, Eyrignac et ses Jardins
Sarlat and its surroundings have something to offer you in every season of the year. Thanks to the Malraux law, Sarlat preserves the authenticity of its picturesque alleys and the beauty of its monuments. The town has no less than 65 monuments and protected buildings listed in the national inventory, including Manoir de Gisson.
Sarlat is the ideal place to discover gastronomy: in the paradise of truffles, foie gras, mushrooms, sweets, pies, and fine delicacies, all found in the beautiful market of Sarlat. There is also a lot to do for sports enthusiasts. There are wonderful mountain bike trails that crisscross Sarlat, tennis courts can be rented in the center of Sarlat or you can choose to go canoeing, rock climbing or horseback riding.
The Monkey Forest adventure park (10 minutes away at Carsac-Aillac), the Prehisto dinosaur park (50 minutes away at Lacave en Quercy) and the monkey park (60 minutes away at Rocamadour) are just some of the outings that will delight the whole family.
