Dordogne - More Information

We are in the Dordogne area of France and the capital Perigueux is only a 35 minutes drive. This is an ancient city steeped in history. Similarly Angouleme the capital of Charante has its history within its old walled city. Within these walls they hold a grand prix for vintage cars every September.

There is local shopping in Verteillac and supermarkets in Riberac and Villebois Lavalette both opn on Sunday mornings. Beware of bank holidays of which there are many when the shops close at midday. There is now a McDonalds in Riberac next to LeClercs supermarket. 

There are many restaurants in the area with good local ones in Verteillac and Cherval. There is also a mobile fish and chip shop - British owned that visits specific 'set' locations daily which are all fairly local to La Sauvanie. 

If we head south east beyond Perigueux to the Lot & Dordogne valley.Places we are yet to visit are Sarlat, Chateau de Castelnaud, Beynac - ideal for canoeing, La Roque Gageac, Saint Cyprien and the Lot cliffs , chateaux and castles.

Atlantic Coast

One of our favourite trips are to the vineyards near Bergerac 45 minutes away especially understanding the history and naturally the tasting of the cru wines. The Bordeaux wines are a little further afield and Saint Emilion is worth a visit but be warned it gets very busy with parking which can be difficult so arrive early. 

We are about 2 hours from the Atlantic coast. If we take  our grand children we go to quieter beaches near Royan.  Being a surfer, as are my sons, the beaches at the Cote Sauvage, north of Royan, are our favourite beaches. When they were young we had many holidays to these beaches with fond memories walking through the forest to the beach. At the end of perfect day we head to the fish restaurants of Royan and La Palmere. You can rent surf boards and boogie boards from the local shops or at the beach.

At Cognac there are the brandy distilleries of the famous houses - Hennessey and Martell to name two. Well worth a visit to hear the history and sample the brandy. The price you pay relates to the vintage you sample. Take someone who does not drink. 

Airports

A car is needed and these can be hired locally or at the airports. Though Bordeaux is the nearest city airport just under 2 hours away Paris is 5 hours away. There are closer regional airports in Bergerac, Limoges and Tours all accessed with Ryanair.