THE DORDOGNE VALLEY - A REMARKABLE JOURNEY
From the arid Causses plateaux to the wooded hills of Xaintrie, explore the wonders of the Dordogne Valley remarkable landscapes, exceptional historic heritage, a land rich in gastronomic traditions, numerous outdoor activities, a festival culture, etc.
AN IDYLLIC SETTING
The Dordogne Valley is full of picturesque roads surrounded by remarkable scenery, beautiful rivers, and hiking trails, such as the Santiago de Compostela pilgrim route. An idyllic setting for a wide range of leisure and outdoor activities such as canoeing, swimming in the river, walks, etc.
HISTORIC HERITAGE
History has been made here for thousands of years… traces still remain of the first humans, including magnificent examples of cave art and prehistoric drawings. Over the centuries, an exceptional heritage has accumulated: castles, churches, buildings, mediæval villages etc. Six of the most beautiful villages in France are located on the banks of the river: Autoire, Carennac, Loubressac, Turenne, Collonges-la-Rouge, and Curemonte - near the Gouffre de Padirac, the holy city of Rocamadour, and the Causses du Quercy Regional Nature Park.
GASTRONOMY AND LOCAL PRODUCTS
GThe Dordogne Valley is known for its superb cuisine - gourmet experiences are a way of life here, thanks to the region’s dedicated farmers, producers and chefs. On market days, the villages present a lively, colourful spectacle… The pleasures of table d’hôte dining, authentic farmhouse inns, and starred cuisine: savour delicious strawberries, Quercy melon, walnuts from Périgord, ceps, truffles, foie gras, confit, farmhouse lamb from Quercy, and goat’s cheese from Rocamadour, washed down with Glanes wine or a glass of Amadour…
THE LYRIC ARTS, JAZZ, THEATRE, ETC.
Depending on the timing of your visit, you will also have the opportunity to enjoy one of the many festivals, real celebrations of art and culture, that often take place in extraordinary settings. Amongst the best known are the Rocamadour Festival of Sacred Music, Souillac en Jazz, Saint-Céré Opera Festival, Collonges-la-Rouge Theatre Festival, etc,