Jun 25th - Sarlat-la-Canéda

 As we’re without car, and trains and buses around here are practically non-existent (apart from school services), we decided to do a mini-tour today taking in the Dordogne river and a few of the local villages. 

Our first stop was to the beautiful village of Domme, set on the top of a hill overlooking the Dordogne river and known as one of the many ‘bastides’ in the area.  These ‘bastides’, built in the 1200’s, are fortified towns that were built in a strict grid layout and centred on a main square, and were used as defensive positions during the 100 years war between the French and English.  Apart from the beautiful village itself the views of the Dordogne from the ramparts were just spectacular and we both decided that they alone were worth the cost of the trip!

Our next stop was to La Roque-Gageac.  This is another lovely medieval village and situated at the foot of, and built into, limestone cliffs overlooking the Dordogne. It was here that we took off on our journey up and down the river.  Although the boat trip itself was a bit ‘daggy’, ‘interesting’ audio guide, and pretend old fashioned ‘touristy’ boat, the views were great and it was a surprise to see the number of chateaux situated along the river. 

Our last stop was to another hill-top village, Beynac, overlooking the Dordogne but this time itself being overlooked by a magnificent castle.  Built in the 12th century, the village and castle both have stunning views of the surrounding landscape and which includes four other local chateaux. 

Having had a great sightseeing day, the scenery and villages have been brilliant, I can understand the attraction of the Dordogne and we’ve both got it down on our ‘plan to come back’ list!


Comments

  1. Lyn WalpoleJune 26, 2023 at 9:53 PM

    Le Tour must be as impressed as you because it keeps returning to the Dordogne

    ReplyDelete

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