Sarlat the geographical centre of Périgord-Quercy, is by far the most important tourist site in the region Over a million visitors discover or re discover this medieval jewel every year. This town of 10,000 inhabitants today occupies top spot in terms of tourists and culture. Although this is basically a cultural town, industry is also represented, mainly by food processing firms, many of which produce foie gras. This foie gras, one of the most highly rated in France has contributed to the great culinary reputation of the Périgord in general and the town in particular.

Although it has one of the largest medieval urban areas (13th to 16th centuries) in the world, Sarlat cannot claim a very distant past. The initial Sarlat abbey was most probably founded between 820 and 840 AD by Duke Pepin of Aquitaine. Saint Bernard stopped off in Sarlat in 1147 during his journey through the South of France to spread the gospel to the many Cathars. The plague was predominant at the time. He gave the sick consecrated bread to eat and healed them. This event, this miracle even was commemorated by the building of the strange graveyard lantern which, still today, remains one of the towns symbols.

Lost in the heart of the distant Périgord, Sarlat could have sunk into oblivion if it was not for the Malraux Act of 4th August 1962. Perhaps the minister of culture (Andre Malraux) recalled having taken to the macquis (The name given to some French Resistance groups during World War Two) in the heart of the Sarlat woodlands, when he signed the act of renovation and restoration. The works carried out from 1964 onward have revealed a veritable treasure trove of Medieval and Renaissance art to the public. Tourists and film directors then took charge of bringing this corner of the Earth “which is the closest things to heaven” according to Henry Miller, to the attention of the whole world. The 1978 film version of “Les Miserable” was filmed extensively in Sarlat, but also in nearby Domme, with the stunning Beynac Castle standing in for the famous Toulon Jail. Sarlat’s wonderful architecture and medieval style buildings and stone roofs have made a backdrop for a score of other top motion pictures since, which has added to it’s fame an it’s fortune.

A warren of alleyways, virtually unchanged since the middle ages, lined with warm ochre stone houses, each with its own distinctive facade and ornately sculptured window embrasures, set off by the stone roofs and turrets, make Sarlat a must for any tourist visiting the Dordogne. Sarlat’s Saturday market is excellent, teaming with life, an unforgetable experience from the street artists that throng there, to the wonderful fresh local produce. Sarlat comes to life in summer with its Drama Festival and Film Festival as well as non-stop street shows in the old quarter. Sarlat is an artists paradise with many small galeries including the famous “Herdin”, student of Salvador Dali. Out of season there is also a well packed programme of cultural events, concerts, drama, films (often in the original language), a visit at Christmas is like stepping into a Fairy Tale, with piped christmas carols and Santas scaling buildings everywhere, there truly is something for everyone.

Sarlat Tourist Office

3 Rue Tourny – BP 114
F-24203 Sarlat Cedex

Tél. 33 (0) 5.53.31.45.45
Fax. 33 (0) 5.53.59.19.44
Web http://www.-sarlat-tourisme.com
Email info@sarlat-tourisme.com

⇒To contact the services (direct phone line and e-mail)
General information – 33 (0) 5 53 31 45 45 – info
Holiday rentals booking service – 33 (0) 5 53 31 45 40 – locations
Individual packages booking service – 33 (0) 5 53 31 45 43 – sejoursindividuels
Group packages (seminars..) booking service – 33 (0) 5 53 31 45 42 – sejoursgroupes
Guided tours of the Medieval city ,conferences – 33 (0) 5 53 31 45 42 – visitesguidees
Walking paths – 33 (0) 5 53 31 45 45 – rando

Abjat Sur Bandiat Tourism Office: Le Bourg, 24300, Abjat Sur Bandiat
Tel: 05 53 56 80 08 Fax: 05 53 56 77 97

Beaumont Du Perigord Tourism Office: Place Centrale, 24440, Beaumont Du Perigord
Tel: 05 53 22 39 12 Fax: 05 53 22 05 35

Belves Tourism Office: 1 Rue des Filhols, 24170, Belves
Tel: 05 53 29 10 20

• Bergerac Tourism Office: 97 Rue Neuve d’Argenson, 24100, Bergerac
  Tel: 05 53 57 03 11 Fax: 05 53 61 11 04
  
• Beynac et Cazenac Tourism Office: La Balme, 24220, Beynac et Cazenac. Includes the communes Carsac-Aillac, La roque Cageac, St Andre–Atlas, St Vincent de Cosses, Vezac et Vitrac).
  Tel: 05 53 29 43 08 Fax: 05 53 29 43 08
  
• Bourdeilles Tourism Office: Place des Tilleuls, 24310, Bourdeilles
  Tel: 05 53 03 42 96 Fax: 05 53 54 56 27
  
• Brantome Tourism Office: Abbaye, 24310, Brantome
  Tel: 05 53 05 80 52 Fax: 05 53 05 80 52
  
• Canton de Mareuil Tourism Office: 12 rue Pierre Degail, 24340, Mareuil Sur Belle
  Tel: 05 53 60 99 85 Fax: 05 53 60 31 97
  
• Carlux et Fenelon Tourism Office: Rouffillac, 24370, Carlux
  Tel: 05 53 59 10 70 Fax: 05 53 59 10 70
  
• Creysse Tourism Office: Port de Creysse – Belle Riva, 24100, Creysse
  Tel: 05 53 23 20 45 Fax: 05 53 23 20 45
  
• Daglan Tourism Office: Le Bourg, 24250, Daglan
  Tel: 05 53 29 88 84 Fax: 05 53 29 88 84
  
• Domme Tourism Office: Plae de la Halle, 24250, Domme
  Tel: 05 53 31 71 00 Fax: 05 53 31 71 09
  
• Excideuil Tourism Office: 1 Place du Chateau, 24160, Excideuil
  Tel: 0872 689 556 Fax: 05 53 52 29 79
  
• Eymet Tourism Office: Place de la Bastide, 24500, Eymet.
  Tel: 05 53 23 74 95 Fax: 05 53 23 74 95
  
• Grolejac Tourism Office: Mairie, 24250, Grolejac
  Tel: 05 53 28 11 06 Fax: 05 53 29 39 74
  
• Hautefort Tourism Office: Place du Marquis, J.F. de Hautefort, 24390, Hautefort
  Tel: 05 53 50 40 27 Fax: 05 53 51 99 73
  
• Issigeac Tourism Office: Place du Chateau, 24560, Issigeac
  Tel: 05 53 58 79 62 Fax: 05 53 58 79 62
  
• Javerlhac La Chapelle Tourism Office: Mairie, 24300, Javerlhac La Chapelle
  Tel: 05 53 56 30 18
  
• La Roche Chalais Tourism Office: 9 Place du Puits qui Chante, 24490, La Roche Chalais
  Tel: 05 53 90 18 95
• La Roque Gageac Tourism Office: Le Bourg, 24250, La Roque Gageac
  Tel: 05 53 29 17 01
• Lalinde Tourism Office: Jardin Public, 24150, Lalinde
  Tel: 05 53 61 08 55 Fax: 05 53 61 00 64
• Lanouaille Tourism Office: Place Marechal Bugeaud, 24270, Lanouaille
  Tel: 05 53 62 17 82 Fax: 05 53 62 18 00
• Le Bugue Sur Vezere Tourism Office: Porte de la Vezere, 24260, Le Bugue Sur Vezere
  Tel: 05 53 07 20 48 Fax: 05 53 54 92 30
• Le Buisson De Cadouin Tourism Office: Pavillion de l’Office de Tourisme, Place du General de Galle, 24480, Le Buisson De Cadouin
  Tel: 05 53 22 06 09 Fax: 05 53 22 06 09
• Les Eyzies De Tayac Tourism Office: 19 Avenue de la Prehistoire, 24620, Les Eyzies De Tayac
  Tel: 05 53 06 90 79 Fax: 05 53 06 90 79
• Limeuil Tourism Office: Le Bourg, 24510, Limeuil
  Tel: 05 53 63 38 90 Fax: 05 53 63 30 31
• Monpazier Tourism Office: Place des Cornieres, 24540, Monpazier
  Tel: 05 53 22 68 59 Fax: 05 53 74 30 08
• Montagrier Tourism Office: Moulin du Pont, 24350, Montagrier
  Tel: 05 53 91 35 11 Fax: 05 53 91 35 11
• Montpon Menesterol Tourism Office: Place Clemenceau, 24700, Montpon Menesterol
  Tel: 05 53 82 23 77 Fax: 05 53 81 86 74
• Mussidan Tourism Office: Place de la Republique, 24400, Mussidan
  Tel: 05 53 81 73 87
• Neuvic Sur l’Isle Tourism Office: Place de la Mairie, 24190, Neuvic Sur l’Isle
  Tel: 05 53 81 52 11 Fax: 05 53 80 18 54
• Nontron Tourism Office: Chateau, Avenue du General Leclerc, 24300, Nontron
  Tel: 05 53 56 25 50 Fax: 05 53 60 34 13
• Pays de Jumilhac Tourism Office: Bd du Gal de Gaulles, 24630, Jumilhac le Grand.
  Tel: 05 53 52 55 43 Fax: 05 53 62 59 43
• Pays de Villamblard Tourism Office: Chateau Barriere, 24140, Villamblard
  Tel: 05 53 82 26 28 Fax: 05 53 82 26 28
• Perigueux Tourism Office: 26 Place Francheville, 24000, Perigueux.
  Tel: 05 53 53 10 63 Fax: 05 53 09 02 50
• Piegut Pluviers Tourism Office: 1 Place de l’Eglise, 24360, Piegut Pluviers.
  Tel: 05 53 60 74 75 Fax: 05 53 56 88 30
• Riberac Tourism Office: Place Charles de Gaulle, 24600, Riberac.
  Tel: 05 53 90 03 10 Fax: 05 53 91 35 13
• Rouffignac Tourism Office: Place de la Mairie, 24580, Rouffignac St Cernin de Reilhac.
  Tel: 05 53 05 39 03
• Salignac-Eyvigues Tourism Office: At 24590, Salignac-Eyvigues.
  Tel: 05 53 28 81 93 Fax: 05 53 28 85 26
• Sarlat Tourism Office: Ancien Eveche, Rue Tournay, 24200, Sarlat la Caneda.
  Tel: 05 53 31 45 45 Fax: 05 53 59 19 44
• Saussignac Tourism Office: Le Chateau, 24240, Saussignac.
  Tel: 05 53 22 49 11
• Sigoules Tourism Office: Place de l’Eglise, 24240, Sigoules.
  Tel: 05 53 58 48 16 Fax: 05 53 73 02 39
• Siorac en Perigord: Mairie, Place de Siorac, 24270, Siorac en Perigord.
  Tel: 05 53 31 63 51
• Sorges Tourism Office: At Ecomusee de la Truffe, 24420, Sorges.
  Tel: 045 53 46 71 43 Fax: 05 53 46 71 43
• St Astier Tourism Office: Place de la Republique, 24110, Saint Astier.
  Tel: 05 53 54 13 85 Fax: 05 53 08 77 85
• St Aulaye Sur Dronne Tourism Office: Place Pasteur, 24410, Saint Aulaye.
  Tel: 05 53 90 63 74
• St Cyprien en Perigord Tourism Office: Place Charles de Gaulle, 24220, Saint Cyprien.
  Tel: 05 53 30 36 09 Fax: 05 53 28 55 05
• St Jean de Cole Tourism Office: Rue du Chateau, 24800, Saint Jean de Cole.
  Tel: 05 53 62 14 15 Fax: 05 53 62 14 15
• St Pardoux La Riviere Tourism Office: Rue Puits de la Barre, St Pardoux La Riviere.
  Tel: 05 53 56 79 30 / 05 53 56 70 22
• Ste Alvere Tourism Office: At Service Municipal du Tourisme Ste Alvere, 2 rue Jules Ferry, 24510, Ste Alvere.
  Tel: 05 53 73 55 85 Fax: 05 53 73 55 99
• Terrasson Lavilledieu Tourism Office: Rue Jean Rouby, 24120, Terrasson Lavilledieu.
  Tel: 05 53 50 37 56 Fax: 05 53 50 86 82
• Thenon Tourism Office: 27 Avenue de la IVe Republique, 24210, Thenon.
  Tel: 05 53 06 35 10
• Thiviers Tourism Office: Place du Marechal Foch, 24800, Thiviers.
  Tel: 05 53 55 12 50 Fax: 05 53 55 12 50
• Tocane St Apre: Tourist office at Tocane St Apre.
  Tel: 05 53 91 35 11
• Tremolat Tourism Office: Ilot St Nicholas Bourg, 24510, Tremolat.
  Tel: 05 53 22 89 33 Fax: 05 53 22 82 71
• Varaignes Tourism Office: Chateau de Varaignes, 24360, Varaignes.
  Tel: 05 53 56 35 76 Fax: 05 53 56 35 76
• Vergt Tourism Office: 17 Place Charles Mangold, 24380, Vergt.
  Tel: 05 53 03 45 10
• Verteillac Tourism Office: Avenue d’Aquitaine, 24320, Verteillac.
  Tel: 05 53 90 37 78
• Villars Tourism Office: At Bourg, 24530, Villars.
  Tel: 05 53 03 50 79 Fax: 05 53 03 50 79
• Villefranche de Lonchat Tourism Office: Le Bourg, 24610, Villefranche de Lonchat.
  Tel: 05 53 73 29 62 Fax: 05 53 73 29 62
• Villefranche du Perigord Tourism Office: Rue Notre Dame, 24550, Villefranche du Perigord.
  Tel: 05 53 29 98 37 Fax: 05 53 30 40 12
• Vitrac Tourism Office: At 24200, Vitrac.
  Tel: 05 53 28 57 80

The attractive village of St Cyprien is full of history: witness the narrow streets winding up to the 12th-century belltower-keep, part of the abbey church with its famed (and officially listed) organ-chest.

The town’s history is tied into that of the abbey. Around 620 AD, a hermit named Cyprien settled in a cave that overlooked the Dordogne valley. Others gathered around him and a monastic community grew up. Barbarian invasions in the mid-9th century made the monks build defensive ramparts, of which the belltower-keep survives.

In 1076 the monastery, now an Augustine body, was doing so well that Bertrand de Got, archbishop of Bordeaux and later Pope Clement V, took it under his wing.

In the Hundred Years’ War, St Cyprien suffered from its exposed border position between Eleanor’s Aquitaine and the Kingdom of France.

In 1568, during the Wars of Religion, Calvinist troops burned the priory to the ground, but the monastery was rebuilt in 1685. Declared a “national asset”, in April 1791 it was sold to the town for 8,125 francs and renamed “Temple of Reason dedicated to the Supreme Being”.

In 1871 the state tobacco monopoly knocked down the cloister, closed off the inner doors, and turned the place into a warehouse.

Every summer the St Cyprien tourist office receives over 10,000 visitors. Located in the village centre, it is open all year round.Place Charles de Gaulle 24220 Saint Cyprien

Opening hours

1 November to 28 Febuary
Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 12:30, 3 to 6pm Except wednesday afternoon

1 March to 31 October
Monday to Saturday 9:30 to 12:30, 3 to 6pm Sunday 10 to 12am

15 May to 30 September
Monday to Friday 9:30 to 12:30, 3 to 6pm Sunday 10 to 12am

Belves is a lovely and lively medieval town, it stands on a rocky spur above the Nauze valley on the skirts of the Bessede forest with a typical bastide layout and centre, and a preserved 15th century covered market hall. The town is well worth a visit.

History

Two hundred and fifty years BC it was inhabited by a celtic tribe the Bellovaques, who gave the city its name. The 11th century AD made it a fortified city because of its strategic position. In its most ancient part you find the castrum (fortified village) with its old keep (the “Tour de l’Auditeur”, 11th century), the Hôtel Bontemps (12th century, with its renaissance front), the ramparts, which used to encircle the city with a fortified gate and a tower later to be raised into a belfry (15th century). It towers above the Place d’Armes, nowadays used as a market-place every Saturday morning, with its five hundred years old 23 pillars and the pillori-irons to which the prisoners used to be chained.

In the hollow of the medieval ditch you can see the entrance to the troglodytic caves, once inhabited (from the 13th to the 18th centuries; guided visits all the year round, upon prior reservation). Strolling along the streets and alleys with their poetical names the “rue du Bout du Monde” (end of the world), the “Rue de l’Oiseau qui Chante (the singing bird), you will meet some more architectural treasures, the castle, the former Couvent des Frères Prêcheurs (monastery of the preaching priest)

About

In the centre of the town you can visit some troglodyte dwellings that date from around the 13th century. In the town you can also see the medieval belfry and walls, a 14th century castle, and the city hall. Belves is famous as being the ‘town of seven bell towers’. You will enjoy a pleasant afternoon wandering the streets and alleys of Belves – note that it is listed as ‘one of the most beautiful villages in France’.

The main sights

The old town, called Le Castrum, originates from the 11/12th century and was originally surrounded by ramparts. These were 15 metres high under the hospital! Some of the ramparts are still visible – wander down the rue du Petit Sol and the rue de l’oiseau qui chante (street of the bird that sings!).

The Belfry was built in the 11th century and was originally a defensive tower overhanging a deep moat in which people lived in caves. At the bottom of the moat the troglodytes grew their vegetables. The visit to the “Habitations troglodytiques” is very interesting.

The entrance to the troglodyte dwelling is by the fortified gate in the corner of the square. In the 11th century this had a drawbridge and was the only entrance to the Castrum.

Also from the 11th century is the ‘Tourd de l’Auditeur’. The entrance is high up as guards used to enter by ladder and then pull this up to prevent intruders.

The other main building of the middle ages is ‘La Tour du Guet’, the watch tower which is out of town on the corner of the rue du Bout du Monde (End of the World Street ) and the Pelevade street (named after a menhir which once stood here). The watch tower overlooks the valley and so could warn when the enemy approached.

Moving into the 13th century there is the monastery of the ‘Freres Precheurs’, now the townhall of Belves, and the church of Moncuq whose choir and chapels are 13th century though much of the rest is 15th century.

The chateau on the edge of town was started in the 14th century and altered during the Renaissance and afterwards.

In the 15th and 16th century the covered market was built. Note the pilori chain on one of the pillars. This was put round the neck of wrong-doers and they were held there for two or three days.

The Maison des Consuls which houses the tourist office is also 15th century and was for meetings of the consellors. The ground floor was a guard-room.

One of the highlights of Belves is its position on a rock outcrop, overhanging the valley of the river Nauze, and the views across open countryside from the town. Don’t ignore the surrounding countryside wnen you visit Belves – there is a great deal to explore in the surrounding small villages.

OFFICE DE TOURISME DU PAYS DE BELVES
1, Rue des Filhols
24170 BELVES
TEL/FAX : 33-553-29-10-20
belves@perigord.com

http://www.perigord.com/belves

Atelier Musee des Tisserands et de la Charentaise
Contained within the Castle of Varaignes, this working weaving museum and the museum of the Bandiat – Tardoire valleys offers a glimpse of local life in the 19th century. Located at Varaignes.Tel: 05 53 56 35 76

Ateliers Musee
A mineral and gem stone museum found at the foot of the Castelnaud Castle. Located in Vezac.
Tel: 05 53 28 35 78

• Chateau de Beynac et Cazenac
  The Beynac and Cazenac Castle occupies a dominant position on the rocky cliffs overlooking the Dordogne river. Reconstructed by Lord Beynac it’s architecture dates from the 13th century.
  Tel: 05 53 29 50 40
• Chateau de Biron
  The Biron Castle dates from the 12th century. It was one of the 4 Perigord baronies and owned by the Gontaut-Biron family for 8 centuries. Located in Biron near Monpazier.
  Tel: 05 53 63 13 39
• Chateau de Bourdeilles
  Features a fortress from the 13th – 15th centuries. Offers an interesting collection of cupboards, carpets, wardrobes from the 16th and 17th centuries. Open throughout the year. Located near Brantome.
  Tel: 05 53 03 73 36
• Chateau de Bruzac
  The ruins of the Bruzac Castle can be found between st Pierre de Cole and St Jean
  Tel: 05 53 03 70 74
• Chateau de Castelnaud
  This reconstructed castle overlooks the Dordogne and faces the Chateau Marqueyssac. Built in the 12th century the Castle experienced British rule from 1259 -1273. See website for more details (in French).
  Tel: 05 53 31 30 00
  
• Chateau de Chabans
  The Chabans Castle has been owned by some of the most prominent families of Dordogne. The castle dates back to the 15th century. It played a role in the Resistance movement when Jacques Chaban-Delmas took his “nom de guerre” from the castle.
  Tel: 05 53 51 70 60
• Chateau de Duras
  Castle dated from the middle age offers an architecture mixing middle-age and the 18th century. Located in Duras, Lot et Garonne (47).
  Tel: 05 53 83 77 32
• Chateau de Fenelon
  At Ste. Mondain between Sarlat and Soillac (24). An opportunity to visit a furnished Chateaux with it’s antique furniture and historical architecture. Pets are not permitted.
  Tel: 05 53 29 81 45 Fax: 05 53 29 88 99
• Chateau de Fratteau
  The Fratteau Castle dominates domain of the new prison. Built in the 12th and 17th century it has preserved chimneys from the 15th and 16th century. Now also home to potters. Located at the exit of Neuvic sur l’Isle.
  Tel: 05 53 81 11 02
• Chateau de Hautefort
  A classical castle built in the 9th century on a rocky spur. It once belonged to the viscounts of Limoges and features the Long Tower, The Palm Tower and The Prison Tower. Located in Hautefort. See website for more details.
  Tel: 05 53 50 51 23
• Chateau de Jumilhac le Grand
  The castle was originally built in the 13th century and used to act as a line of defence during many incursions. Well known for its unique roofs that were built around the 1600’s. Located at Jumilhac Le Grand.
  Tel: 05 53 52 42 97
• Chateau de L’Herm
  The Herm Castle was built at the end of the 15th century but was abandoned. Today it is going through a period of restauration. See website for details. Located at Rouffignac Saint Cernin de Reilhac.
  Tel: 05 53 05 46 61
• Chateau de Lanquis
  A combination of architectural styles from palatial renaissance to a medieval fort created this elegant chateau. Well know for its chimneys. Open all year except from 15 January to 15 February.
  Tel: 05 53 63 65 00
• Chateau de Mareuil
  The Mareuil Castle formed one of the four baronies of Perigord. Owned by the Talleyrand family, it comprised an effective defensive system. A visit to the castle takes one back to the 100 year war and is an excellent tribute to Napoleon. At Mareuil.
  Tel: 05 53 60 99 85
• Chateau de Monbazillac
  This 26th century chateau is home to a museum dedicated to wine-making, arts and local traditions, 17th century perigord furniture and protestanism. The 4 ha parc is open to the public. Open throughout the year. Call for times.
  Tel: 05 53 63 65 00
• Chateau de Montfort
  The Montfort castle has been razed to the ground 4 times. Once in 1254 by Simon of Montfort, once during the 100 year war, once under Louis the 11th and finally under Henry the 4th. Restauration work has been underway since the 19th century.
  Tel: 05 53 28 57 80
• Chateau de Neuvic
  The Neuvic Castle was built in 1520 along the banks of the Isle. The architecture shows the transiton from Medieval Time to the Renaissance. Located at Neuvic sur l’Isle.
  Tel: 05 53 80 86 65
• Chateau de Puyferrat
  The Puyferrat Castle was built in the 16th century and features a totally covered walkway that offers a panoramic view onto the neighbouring countryside. A chapel that hosts the family vault was built in 1825. Located near St Astier.
  Tel: 05 53 07 86 26
• Chateau de Puyguilhem
  The Puyguilhem Castle was built during the First Renaissance and is a fine example of a Francoise 1st castle. Located near the village of Villars.
• Chateau de Puymartin
  The Puymartin Castle is be found between Sarlat and Les Eyzies. Occupied by the English in 1358 the castle has managed to preserve its furniture, carpets, paintings and other works for over 5 centuries. Tel: 05 53 59 29 97
• Chateau de Sanxet
  Located 3km west of Monbazillac, they offer a prestige car museum. They also rent rooms for receptions.
  Tel: 05 53 58 37 46
• Chateau de Sauveboeuf
  16th Century castle, classified as a national monument. Displays a Louis the 18th style. Located in Aubas near Montignac.
  Tel: 05 53 51 89 46
• Chateau des Bernadiers
  Built on the side of a rocky slope around a high tower with views dominating Nizonne. This castle was no stranger to the 100 year war. The counts d’Aydie increased the castle and built terraces. Located at Champeaux et la Chapelle Pommier.
  Tel: 05 53 60 38 59
• Chateau des Bories
  Constructed on the banks of a river, the Bories Castle is an example of pure classical Perigourdian architecture. The castle dates from the 15th century. Located at Antonne et Trigonant near Perigueux. Tel: 05 53 06 00 01
• Chateau des Milandes
  At Castlenaud-la-Chapelle. A French chateau located in the heart of the Dordogne countryside with an exhibition relating to the life of Josephine Baker. There is also wildlife to discover on the castle grounds. 
  Tel: 05 53 59 31 21 Fax: 05 53 29 17 33
• Chateau et Jardins de Losse
  At Thonac (24). An opportunity to discover this 15th century castle and gardens of Losse.Take a tour around the moat and renaissance hall, which exhibit fine 16th & 17th century tapestries.
  Tel: 05 53 50 80 08 Fax: 05 53 50 80 08
• Chateau l’Eveque
  Located on the D939 north of Perigueux. The Bishops Castle was where Saint Vincent de Paul was ordained priest in the 1600’s.
  Tel: 05 53 04 66 84
• Chateau Saint Michel de Montaigne
  The Montaigne Castle dates back to the 15th century. This is where Saint Michael wrote his famous essays from. Located at Saint Michel de Montaigne.
  Tel: 05 53 58 63 69 Fax: 05 53 58 63 93
• Chateau Varaignes
  It’s facade boasts a mix of Medieval and Renaissance styles from the 13th and 16th century. The village bought the castle in 1965 and won an award for the restoration of the castel. Located in Varaignes.
  Tel: 05 53 56 35 76
• Cloiture des Recollets
  The House of Wine on Quai Salvette in Bergerac. This 17th century “Cloiture” exhibits the historical link between Bergerac wine and the history of Bergerac. Open June to September.
  Tel: 05 53 63 57 55
• Eco-musee de la Noix
  Walnut farm and museum located in the heart of the Perigord noir region. Documentary film in English shown. There is also a shop selling the local farm produce from walnut cakes to walnut wine.
  Tel: 05 53 59 69 63 Fax: 05 53 28 59 34
• Ecomusee de la Truffe
  Contains plenty of information regarding truffles. Located at Sorges.
  Tel: 05 53 05 90 11
• Institute du Tabac
  A tobacco research institute that has an extensive collection of different types of tobacco products. The institute opens its doors to the public in the summer. Located at Domaine de la Tour on route de Sainte-Alvére in Bergerac.
  Tel: 05 53 63 66 00
• Le Musee Costi
  A collection of works by the Greek sculptor Constantin Papachristopolous. Exhibited in a 12th century crypt in the Saint Jacques presbytery in Bergerac. Ask at the Mayor’s office for more details.
  Tel: 05 53 74 66 66.
• Le Musee du Perigord
  On Cours Tourny, Perigueux. An interesting presentation of fine arts and french archeology. There is also a zoological section. 
  Tel: 05 53 06 40 70 Fax: 05 53 06 40 71
• Le Musee du Thot
  The Thot Museum comprises an animal park and an exhibition centre. In the park one can see species of animal that closely resemble those that historically could be found there. Located at Thonac.
  Tel: 05 53 50 70 44
• Musee Atelier du Trompe-L’Oeil et du Decor Paint
  The Trompe-L’Oeil and Decorative Paint Museum is unique in Europe. It is possible to see demonstrations of work in progress. Located at 5 rue Emile Combes in Perigueux.
  Tel: 05 53 09 84 40
• Musee d’Histoire Locale
  The local history museum in Villefranche de Lonchat contains portraits, costumes and more. Located at Villefranche de Lonchat near Saint Michel de Montaigne. 
  Tel: 05 53 81 21 39
• Musee de Cognac
  A museum dedicated to manufacturing Cognac. The process is clearly explained and the tools clearly displayed. Located in St Aulaye.
  Tel: 05 53 90 81 33
• Musee de l’Or
  Located in the basement of the Castle of Jumilhac le Grand. The museum takes one back to Gaul times when gold was mined in the region.
  Tel: 05 53 52 55 43
• Musee de la Carte Postale Ancienne du Perigord
  The Historical Postcards Museum of Perigord offers more than 33 000 exhibits. Founded by Henry Brives. Located at Saint Pardoux la Riviere.
  Tel: 05 53 60 76 10
• Musee de la Ferblanterie
  Offers more than 1000 white & galvanised iron exhibits dating from the 18th century till today. At La Tour Blanche near Riberac.
  Tel: 05 53 91 11 98
• Musee de la Medicine
  This medical museum in Hautefort, is housed in what was known as a poorhouse that housed local destitutes. The building was finished in 1740 and now hosts the tourist office, a weavers workshop and the medicam museum. See website for more details. 
  Tel: 05 53 50 40 27
• Musee de la Paleontologie et de la Vie Sauvage
  Includes 3000 articles of paleonthology covering 700 million years. The Musee de la Vie Sauvage boasts more than 1000 stuffed exhibits. Open June to September. Located at 9 rue de la Republic in La Bugue sur Vezere. 
  Tel: 05 53 08 28 10
• Musee de la Pierre Taillee
  This sculptured stone museum displays stomes from the Paleothique and Neolithique periods. 
  Tel: 05 53 60 99 85
• Musee de la Prehistoire.
  Offres visitors an original projection room amongst the rocks. Offer various examples of sculptured rocks and Magdalenian art. Located at Teyjat. 
  Tel: 05 53 56 30 29
   
• Musee des Arts et Traditions Populaires
  The Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions in Mussidan assembled this collection of artifacts from yesteryear including furniture and other objects. 
  Tel: 05 53 81 23 55
• Musee des Records 
  situated in the “salle polyvalent”, it offers a light hearted history of the songs that featured for the town’s annual August festival. Located at La Tour Blanche near Riberac. 
  Tel: 05 53 91 11 98
• Musee des Rois d’Araucanie
  The Museum of the King of Araucanie celebrates Antoine de Tounens who left for Patagonia in 1860 where he declared himself king. He was expelled by the Chilean police in 1860. Medals and official documentation are on show. Located in Chourgnac near Sorge 
  Tel: 05 53 51 12 76
• Musee du Foie Gras
  Discover how geese and ducks are raised, how “Foie Gras” is processed and learn about how to prepare it. At place de Marechal Foch, Thiviers, Dordogne (24).
  Tel: 05 53 55 12 50
• Musee du Suaire
  The relic of St Suaire is to be found in the Cadouin Abbey. Built in 1115, the abbey has recently been declared a world heritage site. Located in Cadouin.
  Tel: 05 53 63 36 28
• Musee du Tabac
  A tobacco museum located at Place du Feu in Bergerac. Displays a large selection of tobacco paraphernalia. Open in season. 
  Tel: 05 53 63 04 13
• Musee du Ver a Soie
  An interesting and educational silkworm museum. Located at Saint Just near Riberac. 
  Tel: 05 53 90 73 60
• Musee du Vin de la Tonnellerie et de la Batellerie
  A museum dedicated to the making of wine barrels and related objects. Located at 5 rue des Conferences in Bergerac.
  Tel: 05 53 57 80 92
• Musee Eugene le Roy
  To be found in the old Saint Jean l’Evangeliste Hospital. It is dedicated to the writings of Eugene Le Roy who died in the city in 1907. Displays his writings, photos, clothing and other souvenirs. Located in Montignac.
  Tel: 05 53 51 82 60
• Musee Fossiles
  The Fossil Museum features a 5.5m high and 11m long metalique sculpture of a Tyrannosaurus-Rex amongst other exhibits. Located in Peyzac le Moustier near Montignac.
  Tel: 05 53 50 81 02
• Musee Gallo Romain Vesunna
  At Rue 26eme RI, Perigueux. Conceived by Jean Nouvel, this museum presents one of the most significant archeological remains in Aquitaine. 
  Tel: 05 53 53 00 92
• Musee Militaire du Perigord
  The Perigord Military Museum is at 32 Rue des Farges, Perigueux. Presents over 13000 pieces on French military history. 
  Tel: 05 53 53 47 36
• Musee Napoleon
  An opportunity to visit the Museum of Napoleon and to view his family history. Situated within the grounds of Chateau de la Pommerie in the heart of Cendrieux, Dordogne (24). 
  Tel: 05 53 03 24 03 Fax: 05 53 03 22 39
• Musee National de Prehistoire
  Offers an extremelly comprehensive and chronologically ordered exhibition covering the Paleolithic period. Located at Les Eyzies.
  Tel: 05 53 06 45 45 Fax: 05 53 06 45 55

Bergerac is found on the northern bank of the Dordogne River, in the western part of the Dordogne department. It is among the largest towns in the region .

The highlight of a trip to Bergerac is the old town – the area immediately north of the river, signposted ‘vieille ville’. This part of the town has some lovely streets and squares to explore, and a variety of boutique type shops.

There are also several restaurants in ‘old-town’ Bergerac among the attractive medieval half-timbered streets, and some open-air cafes where you can pass a very pleasant hour just watching people going about their business.

Visit the Maison de Vins de Bergerac in the heart of the old town. It is a beautiful old cloister dating back to the 12th century. If you are a wine enthusiast there is an exhibition showing the history of Bergerac wines and its 13 appellations. During the summer there are occasional concerts which take place in the cloister. It is a lovely setting for them and worth going if you get the chance. In December there is usually a small but good quality Christmas Market here with products from local artisans, very useful if you are doing some Christmas shopping.

The National Tobacco Museum is based here in Bergerac, and is apparently very interesting. (Tobacco is still an important crop in the region, that you will probably see growing in the fields.)

Up from the old town, there is a newer, more modern part to Bergerac, with more conventional streets and a larger range of ‘modern’ shops.

The market, held on a Saturday, is at the higher end of the town.

After exploring Bergerac you can take an organised boat trip (bagarre) up the river (start from the car-park at the bottom end of the old-town) to see the town and the nearby countryside from a different perspective. (But be warned – several people we know have done this and said it was a waste of time because the boat didn’t go far enough – I recommend you wait, and take a boat trip from one of the bases further upstream).

Museums

Maison des Vins – as mentioned above this is housed in an ancient cloister (which you can enter without entering the exhibition), there is an exhibition of the history of Bergerac wines.
Musee d’Interet National du Tabac (Tobacco museum) – history social and cultural of tobacco.
Musee Costi – sculptures

Tourist Office
97, rue Neuve d’Argenson
24100 Bergerac
33-553.57.03.11
33-553.61.11.04
www.bergerac-tourisme.com

“Arcacia”
This house has a patio with a spectacular view of the famous Les Eyzies rocks. It consist of, a kitchen / dinning room with a double bed in a loft above. A sitting room with couch-bed plus 2 single beds in the loft above. A bathroom with shower / bath wash basin and washing machine. Separate toilet.

Price 2009 taxes included

per week for 4/5 people

1st March / 21 June = 460 €
21 June / 31 August = 480 €
1 September / 30 October = 460 €

Don’t just visit the Dordogne …. Experience the Dordogne.

ENJOY the site, and hopefully soon you to will experience the REAL Dordogne.

Ferme de Fonluc is situated in the hart of the Vezere Valley in Tayac, just 10 minutes walk from Les Eyzies de Tayac. We have the Vezere river running through our land, and stunning views of the Limestone rock faces riddled with Prehistoric dwellings.

Ferme de Fonluc is an ideal place to spend your vacation, a beautiful Perigordine’s farmhouse nestled away in the Vezere Valley surrounded
by lush fields and woodland with spectacular views of the limestone cliffs that are riddled with prehistoric dwellings and the Vezere river running through it. Being just 10 minutes walk from Les Eyzies, it is an ideal place to experience the Prehistoric Capitol, but to escape the very busy tourist villages / attractions.

Horse riding in the Dordogne is an absolute unique experience, nowhere else in the world can you visibly travel through more than 250000 years of history, from neanderthal dwellings, through Cro-Magnon settlements to Medieval towns and villages, all within a day. The Vezere valley in the hart of the Perigord Noir is with it’s more than 250 UNESCO sites of interest the undisputed Prehistoric Capital of the World. Most of these sites are only accessible on foot or horseback. Vezere Valley, Lascaux, La Madeleine, Commarque, Font de Gaume, these are just a very small list of the treasures on our doorstep.
Ferme de Fonluc guarantees you horse riding trips and multi day treks that you will never forget, you will get to see the real Dordogne, and see places in the Prehistoric Capital of the World that tourists never get to see.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y6BNqd0emX8 

For more info visit : www.fonluc.com  and / or www.dordogneonhorse.com