Beynac-et-Cazenac

Castelnaud-la-Chapelle in the Périgord Noir is known for its castle perched high above the Dordogne. The Château de Castelnaud was repeatedly held by the English during the Hundred Years' War, facing the French-held Château de Beynac. The complex, temporarily in ruins, was restored from the 1960s and now hosts the Musée de la Guerre au Moyen Âge with weapons, armour, and recreated siege engines. The village, with its stone houses and narrow alleys, nestles against the castle rock. It's best to combine your visit with Beynac on the opposite river bank. During the off-season, it is significantly quieter than in summer.

La Roque-Gageac lies approximately 10 kilometers south of Sarlat on the Dordogne and is one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France. Its houses, made of golden-yellow limestone, line up in a narrow strip between the river and the cliff face; down by the bank stand the old houses of the Gabarriers, the river boatmen.High in the cliff above the village lies the Fort troglodytique, a 12th-century fortification built into the rock, to which a wooden staircase with 140 steps leads up. On the slope grows a narrow exotic garden with palms, papyrus, cycads, and oleander, laid out by Gérard Dorin. The row of houses is best viewed from a Gabarre, the boat trip also tells the story of the place.

Domme, a 13th-century bastide, perches on a rocky plateau with expansive views over the Dordogne Valley. Its golden stone houses define the town's character, which you can explore through its narrow streets and the central Place de la Halle, where the Porte des Tours features historical Templar graffiti. A highlight is the Grottes de Domme, a cave system beneath the town, accessible by elevator. The Belvédère de la Barre offers panoramic views of the river's meanders and surrounding villages. Visit Domme in the early morning or late afternoon to savour its special atmosphere in peace.

Sarlat-la-Canéda, the capital of the Périgord Noir, captivates with its exceptionally well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture. Here you'll find an abundance of golden stone buildings, winding alleys, and charming squares that reflect the region's history. Highlights include the Place de la Liberté with its bustling market activity, especially on Saturdays, and the impressive Cathédrale Saint-Sacerdos. Explore the narrow passages leading to hidden courtyards, and discover historic buildings such as the birthplace of Étienne de La Boétie. The city is also a hub for regional gastronomy, renowned for truffles, foie gras, and walnuts, which you can find in the local markets. To experience the authentic atmosphere without large crowds, a visit during the off-season is recommended, ideally in spring or autumn. For a comprehensive impression of the old town, you should take your time to appreciate the architectural details and sample the local specialties.

The Dordogne, historically known as Périgord, is located in southwest France. The region is renowned for prehistoric cave art, medieval castles overlooking the river valley, villages of pale limestone, and a cuisine featuring duck, truffles, and walnuts.