Dordogne

The Essential

The Dordogne, an area recognisable by its golden stone and where the good life reigns supreme, is divided into four parts, each encompassing a different side of Périgord: Périgord Blanc (the so-called White Périgord), predominantly limestone, corresponds to the Périgueux region; Périgord Vert (Green), around Nontron, borders Limousin; Périgord Pourpre (Purple) boasts Bergerac wine cellars and the superb bastide of Monpazier. But the best known has to be Périgord Noir (Black), which reaches around the valleys of the River Dordogne and River Vézère. From Sarlat, the delightful capital of Périgord Noir, you can stroll about small roads lined by charming villages (La Roque-Gageac, Domme), prehistoric sites (Lascaux, Les Eyzies), medieval fortresses (Castelnaud, Beynac-et-Cazenac).
Plus, foodies will be pleased to hear that the Dordogne is renowned as much for its gastronomy as its landscapes, with truffles and foie gras gracing local menus.