The Dordogne - the Land of a Thousand and One Châteaux

Why the Dordogne?

There are many sights to see along the banks of the Dordogne and surrounding hills which visitors can enjoy.

Two hours’ drive from Bordeaux on the southwestern coast, the Lascaux caves with their swirling and rugged depictions of ancient warriors, creatures like the woolly mammoths and tribal life continue to fascinate holiday makers. Also, one can visit the troglodyte houses around Rocamadour in the same area – these are cliffside dwellings carved out of the stone. As a result, the surrounding Vézère Valley has become a treasure trove of museums and archaeological sites where visitors can marvel at palaeolithic artwork.

Millenia later, the romans had a potent influence. Following Julius Ceaser’s invasion circa 50 BCE, various settlements sprang up with aqueducts, roads and villas some of which are still visible. Interestingly, the region of Aquitaine encompassing Bordeaux is famous for producing wine amphorae; many wineries use these nowadays as containers and simultaneously as a tribute to this cultural heritage.   

Romanticised as the Land of a Thousand and One Châteaux, the Dordogne lives up to this epithet. There are various castles along the river which feature in our touring recommendations and are well-preserved souvenirs from medieval France. For example, we suggest stopping off along the way on our Bordeaux Vineyards and Dordogne Castles rail-drive tour at the Chateau de Vayres, built under the Kings of Navarre in the 14^th and 13^th centuries.

Although, some were built more recently during the Renaissance from the 16^th century for decoration rather than fortification. The Chateau de Monbazillac is one such case, located in Bergerac and boasting an enormous wine cellar.

For immersing yourself in this beautifal area of southwestern France, we recommend the following touring holidays.

8-night Bordeaux vineyards and Dordogne castles rail-drive tour

This holiday combines a scenic train journey with the flexibility of a hire car, allowing you to leisurely explore the Bordeaux vineyards before continuing to the Dordogne region. Your stay includes three nights at each of two charming hotels, providing ample time to discover the majestic castles along the Dordogne River, spanning both medieval and Renaissance periods, as well as the picturesque market towns and fascinating prehistoric sites that define the area. We recommend these hotels for this itinerary:

Les Sources de Caudalie, Bordeaux-Martillac

Les Sources de Caudalie, located near Martillac, is an exceptional five-star hotel offering a unique blend of luxury and regional charm. Guests can indulge in its three outstanding restaurants, which feature an extensive selection of fine Bordeaux wines, and relax in the renowned vinotherapy spa. The spa utilizes the celebrated Caudalie products, offering treatments such as wine barrel baths and premier cru facials. Surrounded by picturesque countryside perfect for walking, the hotel is just 10 miles from Bordeaux. For a day trip, you can rent a car to visit the Dune de Pilat, Europe’s largest sand dune, located near Arcachon.

Hotel des Vigiers, Monestier

An ideal base for exploring the Dordogne and relaxation, notable not least of all for it’s 27-hole gold course, driving range, spa and swimming pool. Whether opting for accommodation in the logis or chateau rooms, guests at this ‘Petit Versailles’ will be struck by the opulence and range of facilities available. 

8-night Gastronomic tour of Aquitaine, Dordogne and Tarn fly-drive

Embark on a culinary journey through the southwestern regions of Aquitaine, Dordogne, and Tarn, each celebrated for its unique specialties that capture the essence of its character and culture. This tour includes stays at carefully selected hotels renowned for their excellent restaurants, with opportunities to explore nearby local markets and vineyards, immersing yourself in the rich gastronomic traditions of the region. We recommend these hotels for this itinerary:

Hotel Chais Monnet & Spa, Cognac

This exceptional five-star hotel seamlessly blends cutting-edge modernity with the rich traditions of the region and its winemaking heritage. Set within the historic Chais, the original winery of the House of Monnet established in 1838 and symbolized by a salamander, the hotel features 92 stylish rooms, a gourmet restaurant, a brasserie, a jazz bar, and a spa with an indoor pool. Located in the heart of the charming town of Cognac, it is within walking distance of the renowned cognac houses and the town center, known for its elegant pale, grey-blond stone buildings.

Chateau de Salettes, Tarn Valley

The enchanting Château des Salettes, nestled in the picturesque Tarn Valley, is a stunning four-star hotel dating back to the 13th century. Surrounded by rolling countryside and the Gaillac vineyards, it lies close to Albi and Cordes-sur-Ciel. While the château's exterior exudes historic charm, its 19 bedrooms feature a sleek, contemporary design. Guests can savour al fresco dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant, enjoying breathtaking views over the hotel's vineyards.

Chartreuse de Bignac, Dordogne

Boutique, picturesque four-star hotel about 15 minutes’ drive south-east of Bergerac. This is an authentic Perigord (an older name for a medieval province encompassing the Dordogne) building from the 17^th century complete with a park of 12 hectares, outdoor swimming pool, a pond where guests can fish and easy access to the caves at Lascaux and Chateau de Monbazillac.

7 nights in the Dordogne by train holiday

This luxury rail holiday takes you to the heart of the Dordogne, where you’ll spend seven nights in a charming Périgord village. From this idyllic base, you can explore the region’s golden-stone villages, bustling market towns, renowned gastronomy, fascinating prehistoric sites, and tranquil, flowing rivers. Traveling via Eurostar and TGV in a single day, you’ll pick up a hire car upon arrival and stay in an elegant country manor house hotel, blending comfort with authentic charm. The hotel we recommend for this itinerary is:

Le Vieux Logis, Tremolat

A manor house dating back a few hundred years, this very pretty 4-star Relais & and Châteaux hotel is steeped in tradition. It emanates a homely atmosphere, with cozy lounges, open fireplaces, a Michelin restaurant built up out of what used to be a tobacco drying house and beautiful formal gardens.

Final Thoughts

Being a veritable cultural crossroads at the heart of Europe – France shares borders with Spain, Monaco, Italy, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Andorra and Switzerland – the Dordogne has absorbed a lot of this fascinating history. We cannot recommend it enough as a region worth visiting. Get in touch with us if you wish to learn more!