Explore
Which part of the Dordogne suits you?
The Dordogne is larger and more varied than most people expect. The river valley in the south is busy and dramatic, the north is green and quiet, the south-west is wine country. Choosing the right area matters more than choosing the right house.
River, cliffs and castles
Dordogne Valley
The stretch of river most people picture - limestone cliffs, riverside villages and castles facing each other across the water.
- First visits
- Families who want variety close by
- Short breaks
Fully explored in this prototype
Sarlat, oak woods and prehistory
Périgord Noir
Named for its dark oak and chestnut woods. Home to Sarlat and the Vézère valley, with its concentration of prehistoric sites.
- History and prehistory
- Food and markets
- Touring by car
Bergerac and the vineyards
Périgord Pourpre
The south-west, named for its wine. Bergerac, vineyards and fortified bastide towns give it a softer, more agricultural feel.
- Food and wine
- Couples
- Slower holidays
Périgueux and pale limestone
Périgord Blanc
The centre of the department, named for its pale limestone. Périgueux, the departmental capital, sits at its heart.
- A central base
- Town life
- Mixed itineraries
Green, quiet and northern
Périgord Vert
The green north, with rivers, woodland and part of the Périgord-Limousin regional nature park. Generally quieter than the south.
- Walking
- Cycling
- Quiet holidays