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Press kit Summary

A shared heritage Places you really shouldn’t miss Town and city sketches A taste of the Valley Arts and crafts Go with the flow Come into the garden Airs above Family matters Sweet dreams Festivals and fun in the area Contact Page 4

The Dordogne Valley - a shared heritage Page 5

As you step out of the new Brive­ The rich historical and architectural heritage Dordogne Valley airport, you are on the of places such as Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, The Dordogne Valley : threshold of an area to which Time has Souillac and Beynac bears this out. UNESCO Biosphere Reserve been kind: its rich traditions and heritage In 2012, the Dordogne basin (24 000 accumulated over millennia - scenic, Geographically speaking, this area, km2 spread over 6 départements and architectural, historic, cultural and tilted down from east to west, effects 3 regions) was designated a Biosphere gastronomic - are still very much present the transition from the , Reserve by UNESCO. This recognises not and alive. Neanderthal and Cro-Magnon the highlands formed of ancient rocks only the natural wealth of biodiversity Man, the first to leave us his paintings, both constituting the heart of , to the within the area and the primordial occupied this land. lower- lying regions leading to the ocean. role played in this by the Dordogne This means that there is a wide variety of river and its tributaries, but also the The airport lies on the boundary between landscapes, from the steep, narrow valleys efforts made by local communities to two of France’s twelve regions, namely of the granite uplands, through limestone preserve it and to promote sustainable and Nouvelle-, plateaux with their wide, flat horizons development. The Dordogne Valley now and more specifically, between three gashed by deep valleys lined with tall cliffs, being a part of a world-wide network of départements, , and Dordogne. to fertile, verdant river plains. Biosphere Reserves, it is hoped that this Despite these apparent divisions, they international recognition will stimulate have a great deal in common, notably the The Lot, Corrèze and Dordogne have more awareness of the natural environment, river Dordogne which flows between and in common than just geography: they share inspiring imaginative, environmentally- through them, like a blue-green ribbon a great deal of their history and traditions friendly solutions to the problems of binding them together in its loops on its - linguistic, cultural and culinary - too. territorial management, development and way down to the estuary. This Naturally, there are also many differences, energy needs. waterway, from earliest times until the such as architectural ones governed by 19th C., was a vital trade artery, as were all the materials available locally, but, after all, navigable rivers, and the busy river traffic variety is the spice of life, is it not? brought prosperity to many a settlement established on the banks.

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This area has never been heavily Not everything that is grown here is Here, you have a marvellous opportunity industrialised, which explains why it boasts intended as food, however: there are to recharge your batteries, whether this so much unspoilt countryside, and so many some beautiful and fascinating gardens to involves walking, riding, cycling, , beautifully-preserved towns and villages visit, such as the Jardins de l’imaginaire climbing, caving and other strenuous including several of the Most Beautiful in Terrasson. Gardens are just one of the activities, or whether your ideal break Villages in France. various attractions that can be enjoyed by consists of sitting on a shady hotel terrace all the family: there are also wildlife parks, overlooking a lovely landscape wrth a glass Another excellent reason for visiting this unusual museums, boat trips and canoeing of something cool and delicious to hand (or part of the country is the delicious food ... and a whole lot more! both!). People here are very conscious of and wine available everywhere: there is the benefrts of their unhurried local lifestyle, a very strong tradition of producing (and Culture, the arts in ail their variety and enjoy sharing it with visrtors, who are enjoying!) all kinds of delightful things to and crafts ancient and modern are also considered as welcome guests. eat and drink Lively local markets, food very much on the menu: guided , fairs and festivals, restaurants ranging from museums and galleries, handicraft fairs and And that’s an invitation you can’t Farm or Village inns to Michelin-starred workshops open to the public are to be possibly refuse! establishments all contribute to the vigour found all over the area.The performance of this tradition, for the greater pleasure of arts are well catered for by a host of locals and guests alike. lively, friendly festivals which feature high quality artistes and provide something for everyone, with the emphasis always on excellence.

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Places you really shouldn’t miss Page 8

This part of France has retained a Following the Dordogne downstream, you very strong identity, and many people come to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, which owes LE BEAULIEU in Beaulieu/Dordogne here, whilst enjoying ail the benefits of its existence to an abbey founded in the ldeally located in a peaceful, rustic setting, the modernity, nevertheless have a lifestyle 9th C. by one of the Turenne family, rulers hotel “Le Beaulieu” features bright, spacious, which takes account of the changing of much of this area for centuries. Beaulieu personalised rooms and suites brimming seasons and the cycles of Nature. This means ‘beautiful place’, and it is certainly with charm, elegance and modem comforts sense of continuity, of being in touch with aptly named. Charming old houses encircle with free WiFi. The gourmet restaurant La the essentials of life, exerts a powerful the former abbey precincts: ail that now Table de Catherine finds inspiration in the charm over visitors, many of whom return remains is the church itself and the chapter outstanding products that Périgord has again and again.The places mentioned here room, but it’s certainly worth stopping to offer. The Chef, Charly Boyon, serves are ail particularly attractive; but the list is to see. The 12th C. Romanesque church up bountiful fare that is both traditional by no means exhaustive: corne and decide has an exquisitely carved tympanum, and original, crafted from fresh seasonal on your own favourite! depicting the Last Judgement, over the vegetables. south doorway, considered a masterpiece www.hotelbeaulieudordogne.com Let’s begin with the little town of - of its time. If you turn up at the right time sur-Dordogne in an idyllic setting on the of year, you may find yourself in the middle LES FLOTS BLEUS in Beaulieu/Dordogne Dordogne, where the river forrrs a wider of a strawberry festival, adding extra savour In an absolutely idyllic setting on the banks flood plain than in its higher reaches. to your visit. of the Dordogne, this Logis de France Nature There were Iron Age settlements nearby, Silence hotel offers snug and comfortable but Argentat really got ‘on the map’ in the Further south, on the other side of the ‘nests’ with terraces providing lovely views. 10th C., when it was recorded as a walled Dordogne, lies the iconic Gouffre de Foie gras, cepes, strawberries and local wines town centred on a priory. Prosperity came , a truly spectacular natural chasm figure on the menu. from the river trade, which developed which forms a gaping 75m deep hole in the www.hotel-flotsbleus.com particularly in the 18th and 19th C., with ground. Open to the public since 1899, the the transport of wood destined for wine visit includes a short trip on a punt along barrels and vine stakes in the the underground river which formed the vineyards, and the evidence of former whole system, and a walking tour of the wealth is still visible. A replica courpet, the vast internal caverns (the second largest traditional flat-bottomed­ cargo boat, can open to the public in Europe), which are be seen tied up at one of the quaysides. geologically interesting, with beautiful, unusual concretions. www.gouffre-de-padirac.com

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A short drive from Padirac, modern-day Going back northwards across the river A short distance away to the west on the visitors, like the countless hundreds of Dordogne, the charming small town of banks of the river Dordogne, the town of thousands of pilgrims who came this way Martel, once an important market town and Souillac provides plenty of interest, including in the past, find themselves looking over administrative centre, awaits you. The a beautiful 12th C. Romanesque abbey the edge of a narrow canyon that suddenly mediaeval heart of Martel, with vestiges of church, the old quarter containing some opens up in the Causse to reveal the the 12th C. town wall, a large fortified church lovely mediaeval houses, and a Museum of little village of , clinging by its rebuilt in the 14th C. and the covered market Automata, which possesses a fascinating fingertips to the side of a sheer cliff. It has place with its set of old grain measures, is very collection of mechanical toys and automata been a magnet for devotees of the Black well preserved. from the 18th and 19th C., many of which Virgin and St. Amadour since the 12th C, can be seen working. when it began to grow into one of the A busy, bustling market is still held here on major pilgrim destinations in France. Many Wednesday and Saturday mornings, bursting en route for in with delicious local produce, including in passed this way, and although most wintertime that highly prized commodity, the LE PAVILLON ST MARTIN in Souillac people now come for the beauty and black . A hotel? No, more of a superior guest- interest of the site itself (designated a house where a warm, sincere welcome “Grand Site”, one of the major attractions awaits you just a short walk from the in the Occitanie region), the pilgrimage still draws the faithful. Once seen, never market and lovely old abbey church. forgotten sums this place up perfectly. LE RELAIS SAINTE ANNE in Martel www.hotel-saint-martin-souillac.com This luxurious, elegant 3 stars hotel and restaurant “with charm” is hidden in surprisingly large, mature grounds right LA DEVlNlE in Martel in the well-preserved mediaeval town of Character house beautifully decorated LE BEAU SITE in Rocamadour Martel. Food - sourced from the market built on the ancient walls of the city of Set in the heart of the mediaeval village, only a few minutes’ walk away - is available Martel with 17th and 19th C. architecture, this hotel enjoys unrivalled views of the all day, served on the terrace, in your room, parquet floor and stone staircase. shrines and of the Alzou valley. or by the pool; and evening dinner can be www.la-devinie.com www.bestwestern-beausite.com enjoyed beside a log fire or out on the terrace. Go on: spoil yourself. www.relais-sainte-anne.com

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Further downriver, set a few kilometres north North of Sarlat lies Terrasson, a charming old Following the route used since time of the Dordogne itself, you’ll find Sarlat, town whose origins are very ancient, although immemorial from the Atlantic eastwards to known as the Pearl of Perigord Noir. It is indeed what we see now began to develop after a central France, you come to Brive-la-Gaillarde a little gem: the essentially 13th to 16th C. Benedictine abbey was founded in the 6th on the river Corrèze. The old centre, which old quarters are a concentrate of beautifully- C. on the impressive cliffs above the Vézère originally developed around St Martin’s restored buildings from that era. Indeed, valley. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, all church, is now largely pedestrianised, nowhere else in Europe has so many old that remains of the monastery is the church, providing a very pleasant environment. There houses to the square metre. It’s a lively place, reconstructed in the 19th C. There are some are plenty of interesting old buildings to see, with a renowned twice-weekly market that lovely, very old houses in the narrow streets, including the Labenche Renaissance town draws visitors from far and wide, to browse plus a 12th C. bridge, which was built on the house, now a museum; shops to dawdle past around the stalls laden with local produce and monks’ initiative. You can still cross it today, and an excellent market,where all our many to enjoy the street entertainment on offer. although you no longer have to pay! local specialities have pride of place. You can’t beat it - so join them!

LE PLAZA MADELEINE in Sarlat L’HOSTELLERIE DE L’IMAGINAIRE LA TABLE D’OLIVIER This luxurious hôtel (4 stars), in an elegant in Terrasson - 4 stars in Brive-ta-Gaillarde building just outside the line of the old This hotel and restaurant on the hills ln the historical centre of Brive, “La Table town wall, offers a relaxed atmosphere and above Terrasson is in a fine 17th C. d’Olivier’’, the Michelin-starred restaurant many facilities - heated pool, jacuzzi, sauna, residence located right next to the of Brive has become the gastronomic hammam - to cosset you and make your Jardins de l’Imaginaire. Very comfortable ‘place to be’. With a priveliged choice of stay even more enjoyable. bedrooms await you after a meal in the fresh ingredients and the local farmers, the www.plaza-madeleine.com Michelin-starred restaurant, where refined, Chef Pierre NEVEU offers you a refined contemporary cuisine, based on the very kitchen, audacious and creative from CHÂTEAU DE LISSAC best that the region has to offer, is served. starter to dessert with flowery notes. Overlooking the Causse lake, this www.les-imaginaires.fr château with its historic architecture is a harmonious marriage of ancient and modern set in beautiful grounds.The 5 guest rooms, of an extreme refinement, are imbued with an atmosphere of quiet serenity.They are an invitation to relax completely and enjoy the feeling of being a very special guest in a very special place ... www.chateaudelissac.com

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Collonges-la-Rouge THE MOST BEAUTIFUL VILLAGES in the Corrèze has impeccable credentials: in the past, it became CHÂTEAU DE MARSAC IN FRANCE the favourite place for nobles and officers in Other must-sees in this area include several from the nearby court of the Viscounts of A red sandstone building, situated on a villages belonging to the select group known Turenne to build their fine residences, which hillside 4km from Collonges-la-Rouge, as Les Plus Beaux Villages de France. This resemble small châteaux. Add to this the local the Château de Marsac is surrounded Charles association was founded in 1982 by dark red sandstone of which all the buildings by 11 hectares of woodland, meadows Ceyrac, who was then Mayor of Collonges- are constructed and you have a village which and orchards with breath-taking views la-Rouge in the Corrèze. The purpose of really stands out from the crowd. Fine local over the villages of the Dordogne Valley. the group is to preserve and enhance the craftwork and local products are available in The four extremely spacious bedrooms heritage of member villages in order to the little shops around the village. are decorated in contemporary style. make them better known, so that they can Reiki and Refloxology are on offer attract more visitors and develop their local Turenne isn’t far from Collonges, but they for the well-being of visitors and economy, thus helping to keep them alive and could hardly look more different. Turenne is there are relaxing areas around the viable. There are currently 157 villages, located built on a conical hill crowned by mediaeval swimming pool and orchard where the all over France, belonging to the Association. towers, vestiges of the mighty castle of the owner grows her own organic herbs, Membership is not granted lightly: candidates Viscounts of Turenne, who ruled this area for vegetables and fruit. must satisfy very strict criteria relating to nearly ten centuries. Steep lanes lead down www.chateaudemarsac.com their population, the quality and state of to the village houses built, like the castle, from grey-white limestone. Their quality reflects the conservation of their heritage, and the efforts LE CLOS MARNIS in Turenne made by the village council to ensure that it is social status of the original owners. There are A fine group of buildings erected in appreciated and cared for. wonderful views from the hilltop: you can see why feudal lords chose this spot. 1771 by the Guild of White Penitents (so called for the white cloaks and The most beautiful villages in the area: Saint Robert Collonges-la-Rouge, Turenne, , This charming medieval village is hoods they wore when doing charitable Saint-Robert, , , , built on a ridge on the border between the works). The 5 cosy bedrooms have Corrèze and the Dordogne. 12C fortified Beynac, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud- a view of either the castle or the Romanesque church. Fine aristocratic houses, la-Chapelle, Domme, , , village. Table d’hôte meals available on superb views of the Yssandonnais hills. Belvès, Saint-Amand de Coly, Saint-Léon- reservation. sur-Vézère closmarnis.online.fr

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Curemonte, built on a ridge between two Limeuil is situated where the Rivers Dordogne watercourses, really began to develop during and Vézère meet. It lived through the horrors of LA BRUYLE the 11th C. when it came into the possession Viking invasions and the Hundred Years’ War but in Saint-Michel-de-Bannières of the Viscounts of Turenne. This lovely village today only three fortified gates are left to bear A warm welcome in a B&B full of boasts three châteaux, tightly grouped around witness to those times. A bustling river port of character with interiors beautifully the attractive covered market place and 12th old, the medieval village with its stone-built, dark- C. church, with other fine old noble residences tiled houses so typical of Périgord Noir is now a blending the charm of the past and encircling the central hub. Two other churches charming, refreshing place in which to stop. modern comfort. stand outside the main village: the 11th C. www.labruyle.com Romanesque La Combe (one of the oldest in Far from about 20 kilometres of Sarlat, close to the ) and the 12th C. St. Genest, now a , Saint-Amand-de-Coly stands comfortably museum of sacred art. between two small wooded valleys. Its 12C abbey is considered as the most beautiful Monpazier is labelled a “Grand site national”, South of the Dordogne river, in the Lot, lies fortified church of Périgord and keeps a it has no less than 32 listed buildings and is Autoire, tucked into a deep gorge carved out watchful eye on the typical houses made of regarded as the prime example of a “bastide” by the Autoire stream. In the 15th and 16th Sarlat’s stones and “lauze” tiled roofs in a well- among the 300 in South-western France. C., this sheltered situation attracted wealthy matched contrast of ochre and grey colours. Monpazier has had countless awards to salute, residents who had the fine houses built which but also to protect, the outstanding heritage of now make the reputation of the village. There is Halfway between Lascaux and , this fortified village that was founded by Edward also an impressive fountain. The church, 11th C. Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, a former flourishing port I of England in 1284. Romanesque in origin with later alterations, has on the River Vézère is situated in countryside been beautifully restored. that is typical of the Périgord. The village is well Belvès is a medieval town perched on a rocky guarded by its castles – the Manoir de la Salle at spur above the Nauze Valley in Périgord Noir. Loubressac, just downriver, is perched high on the entrance to the village, Château de Clérans It boasts 7 bell towers and although it endured the edge of the plateau where it falls away to above the river and Château de Chabans, jewel invasions and wars, it has miraculously managed the valley. In the past, the village was fortified - of the Côte de Jor – and is proud to host to preserve superb relics of its built heritage. remains of one of the gates still exist - clustering the Music Festival of the Périgord Noir in its for protection beside a small castle (now a beautiful 12C Romanesque church. private house) which served as a look-out post for the nearby fortress of Castelnau- . You can see why, when you stand at the magnificent viewpoint overlooking the countryside for miles around. The stone-built village houses are decked out with lovely flower displays in summer.

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Carennac, in a perfect setting further down on High above the valley a little way downriver, the Dordogne, has its origins in a Benedictine the majestic mediaeval fortress of Beynac LA TERRASSE in foundation, and the old priory gate still stands guard proudly, looking almost as Overlooking the river Dordogne, this opens on to the riverside road. Within the though it grew out of the cliffs themselves. beautifully-restored château (3 stars) enclosure lie the 11th-12th C. church with its Once in the possession of Richard the offers comfortable rooms in total beautifully-carved tympanum, the cloister and Lionheart (in whose time some of it was the Dean’s residence, an elegant Renaissance built), visitors are now assured of a friendly harmony with the noble spirit of the building now an exhibition space. Stone-built welcome! The narrow lanes of this charming place. traditional style houses line the quiet lanes old village climb steeply up from the riverside www.hotel-la-terrasse.com around this complex - ideal for a leisurely to the castle and church, turning into flights of stroll. steps as they go. LA BELLE ETOILE in La Roque Gageac This 3 stars hotel at the foot of the cliffs To the west, in the Dordogne département, Within 10 kilometers from Sarlat, Castelnaud- that rise above the village possesses all La Roque Gageac is built spectacularly into the la-Chapelle overhangs the confluence between ochre-coloured cliffs above the river. During Dordogne and Céou rivers in an exceptional the charm of an old residence and has the Hundred Years’ War, the Bishops of Sarlat landscape opposite the beautiful villages of been run by the same family for three had a residence and maintained a troglodytic Beynac-et-Cazenac and La Roque-Gageac. generations. A comfortable, restful place, fortress here, whose vestiges can still be Well known for its two castles - the medieval it forms an ideal base from which to seen. In more peaceful times, the village was castle superbly restored with its Museum of explore the beauties of the area. a thriving centre of river trade, and nowadays War in Middle Age and the Milandes castle, www.hotel-belle-etoile-dordogne.fr you can take a trip on a ‘gabarre’, a replica of former property of Joséphine Baker -, the village the flat-bottomed cargo boats of those days. itself and its typical Périgord architecture is also The favourable micro-climate enables exotic worth discovering. BALCON EN FORÊT in Beynac plants (palms, oleander, citrus..) to grow Bed and breakfast in a superb group outside along one of the old lanes part way Some ten kilometres south of Sarlat, Domme is of buildings typical of Perigord with 2 up the cliff. perched on a breathtakingly high cliff that allows hectares of grounds in a lovely setting it to enjoy an exceptional view of the Dordogne above the Dordogne, and standing on valley and the neighbouring Most Beautiful a lane leading to the centre of Beynac. Villages of La Roque-Gageac and Beynac- et-Cazenac. This creamy-stoned “bastide” or Very spacious suites, with fireplaces in fortified village boasts a successful combination the local style. of architectural, natural and gastronomic heritage www.guests.ladordogne.info typical of Périgord Noir.

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Town and city sketches Page 15

Brive- la-Gaillarde

Brive, a lively, forward-looking town of some 50,000 inhabitants is by far the largest LE COLLONGES EN CUISINE in the Corrèze. Set between two ridges in Brive-la-Gaillarde in Brive-la-Gaillarde providing great views over the closely- The Hotel Le Collonges offers 26 (Michelin Bib gourmand) packed slate roofs of the old town, Brive is contemporary and large rooms. It is Refined cooking with bold flavours and renowned for its excellent regional cuisine, located in the heart of the gaillarde mouthwatering presentation for this and rugby fans will certainly have heard of city between the Georges Brassens passionate, hardworking young chef, the local team’s prowess. A vital crossroads market and the shopping streets. This Nicolas Eche. Dining room “style bistrot”. and river-crossing since ancient times, the stone building, bordered by plane trees, Bon appétit! town has always been a centre of trade has a terrace, a bar, a reception area, www.encuisine.net and exchange, a role reinforced by the a breakfast room and a showroom arrival of the railway in the 19th C. meeting room. L’ATELIER DU MOUTIER www.hotel-collonges.com 16 rue Maillard - Brive-la-Gaillarde Located where four different rock types New establishment in the heart of the meet, a wide variety of produce is available CHEZ FRANCIS city Gaillarde. Nicolas Serres will satisfy thanks to the varying soils and Brive’s in Brive-la-Gaillarde your straws, with its market cuisine, markets are renowned for the variety and Only two steps away from the Brassens poducts from the market, and this, in a quality of produce on offer. In recent times, Market, this is a special restaurant where clean, chic and contemporary. as well as the shops and boutiques in the the walls are decorated with signatures well-restored mediaeval and Renaissance from famous writers and comedians quarters constructed around St. Martin’s who were present at the famous book church, rebuilt in the 13th C., modern out- fair ”Foire du Livre” in autumn.Tasting of-town shopping centres have developed, the flavours of the market in a bistro serving a wide area. Brive has a relaxed, atmosphere. pleasant atmosphere, and as well as its www.chezfrancis.fr historical and architectural heritage, has much to offer the visitor, including various festivals and events.

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Tulle

Tulle, the administrative capital of the The Musée des Armes provides an Corrèze, grew up around an abbey overview of the history of armaments in LES 7 in Tulle recorded in the 7th C. Elevated to the France and elsewhere, recalling this part of Excellent cuisine right in the city center. status of cathedral in the 14th C., its 12th our local heritage. A small city (fewer than The young chef Cyril Auboiroux cooks C. church was transformed as the town 17,000 inhabitants), Tulle has an attractive, seasonal and locally-sourced food, in a rapidly developed, and the 75m high bell- unspoilt atmosphere, which invites you to design dining room, authentic cuisine. tower still stands sentinel above it. The city stroll through the old streets (a bit of effort www.restaurant-les7.fr is confined in the deep, narrow valley of required for the steps) and explore to your the Corrèze river, with the result that the heart’s content. LE BOUCHE A OREILLE fascinating old quarters, rising steeply up in Tulle the slopes, are threaded with many flights In the old quarter of Trech, the talented of steps giving access to the different levels. chef Stéphane Houdayer performs They give the city its distinctive character, tasty and refined cuisine in a sober and along with the old wooden balconies elegant setting. still seen on some houses. It has long www.leboucheaoreille-tulle.com been famous for the manufacture of lace and accordions; and there was also an important arms factory here.

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Cahors

From the superb Mont St. Cyr viewpoint, Another reason for this spans the river on appears like a 3D map of itself, the western side of the city: the UNESCO LE TERMINUS in Cahors enfolded in a meander of the river Lot. World Heritage-listed Pont Valentré, This hotel with its beautifully executed Founded in Roman times, the mediaeval a beautiful, perfectly-preserved 14th C. décor in keeping with its period (c.1911) city was much smaller than the original, fortified bridge. Add in thecolourful has always belonged to the same family. only occupying the area around the twice-weekly market, one of the finest They have handed down the tradition of cathedral on the eastern side of the in the region, the charm of the main hospitality through the generations, along meander. Completely rebuilt in the 12th- boulevard with its shops and boutiques, with their passion for quality. 14th C, the old quarters still have their the flower displays, and you’ll begin to get www.balandre.com ancient street plan, and about 350 houses the picture of the county town of the Lot, remain intact from that period, which with its friendly atmosphere and sunny LE MAS D’AZEMAR in Mercures helps to explain why it’s a ‘City of Art and Southern joie de vivre. Just outside the city, the rooms in this History’, and has been designated as a lovely house set in a sweet-scented “Grand Site”: one of the major attractions rose garden are decorated with objects in the Occitanie Region. that the proprietors have hunted out at antique and second-hand fairs. www.lemasazemar.com

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Figeac

Figeac, also a ‘Town of Art and History’ The town was also home to Champollion, and “Grand Site Occitanie”, owes who cracked the code of hieroglyphics, LE RELAIS DE LA TOUR its existence to the foundation of a and there is now a museum dedicated In -le-Haut Benedictine abbey on the banks of to him and to the writing systems of A charming hotel in one of the Most the river Célé. Now the Lot’s second the world. Figeac is an invitation to stroll Beautiful Village in France. largest town, it grew rapidly as the abbey through a living history book which has www.lerelaisdelatour.fr prospered, and in the 13th and 14th adopted - and adapted - modernity C. was home to rich merchants whose without losing its delightful personality. HÔTEL “LE 14” in Figeac business took them throughout Europe ln the heart of the médieval city, a new and the Mediterranean. Their wealth built hotel - 3 stars - with spacious rooms, a some very fine town houses, and explains lovely terrasse for your breakfast... calm the lovely mediaeval aspect of Figeac’s and authentic. well conserved, semi-pedestrianised town www.le-quatorze.fr centre.

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Sarlat la Canéda

Set in the Cuze valley and surrounded by The old quarter is extraordinarily well- green hills (or pechs), the beautiful town of preserved, thanks to a law passed in 1962 LES JARDINS D’HARMONIE in Sarlat Sarlat, another worthy ‘Town of Art and under De Gaulle which led to the creation Right in the center of the old town, History’, also grew up beside a Benedictine of France’s first Conservation Sector here, the chef Marc Bidoyet cooks only fresh monastery probably founded in the 9th C. paving the way for extensive restoration. local produce, plus fish and seafood The settlement developed next to the It’s easy to imagine yourself back in the with the world flavour. lt’s a dream. monastic enclosure, and by the 13th C. past, especially after dusk, as you wander www.lesjardinsdharmonie.com was a thriving, bustling town peopled by along in the modern gas lamplight... merchants, shopkeepers and craftsmen. LE PRÉSIDIAL in Sarlat Naturally, the well-off members of the The building, in an idyllic setting in the bourgeoisie wanted their houses to reflect old town, was once the Law Courts, their wealth and status, and these elegant but there’s no argument about the buildings in honey-coloured stone - many quality of the food: the chef, Adrien of which received a Renaissance ‘makeover’ Verissimo, serves the classics of the in the 16th C. - still line the narrow, winding Périgord area, such as fresh ceps or streets. black in season, but with his own individual touch. www.lepresidial.fr

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Terrasson Lavilledieu

This little town, whose origins go back Les cluseaux are a real curiosity: they are beyond the Gallo-Roman period, is set underground shelters, whose history is LE MOULIN ROUGE in Terrasson in the Vézère valley (one of the major shrouded in mystery, but the fact that A short way outside the town centre, tributaries of the Dordogne) not far from most are equipped with a source of water this smart, modern complex with two Brive. It has always been an important river suggests that they might have been used single storey hotels - 3 stars -, two large crossing, where north-south and east-west as refuges in troubled times. Enjoy a stroll restaurants and conference facilities routes meet, and the Pont Vieux, which has through the gardens inspired by 17th and is ideal for both leisure and business spanned the river since the 12th C., bears 18th C. styles, and the contrasting Jardins purposes. witness to this long history of travel and de l’Imaginaire, which are a modern garden www.hotel-dordogne-perigord.com exchanges. If you climb up to the top of must-see. the Malpas cliff, you get a wonderful view LES AGAPES in Terrasson over the river, the roofs and old streets of Set in the old quarter of the town, close the town and the 15th C. St. Sour church. to the church, this restaurant with its ancient stone walls and shady terrace provides refined, delicious cuisine prepared from seasonal produce. www.lesagapesterrasson.fr

Town and city sketches Page 21 A taste of the Dordogne Valley Page 22

Few aspects of our local lifestyle are more Every Saturday morning, the dynamic town Unsurprisingly, delicious alcoholic drinks are important to both residents and visitors of Brive sees crowds of shoppers in search part of our culinary heritage; and if you’d like alike than the really good food and wine of the finest seasonal produce flocking to to know more (and taste some), you can’t available everywhere here. You can find the excellent Georges Brassens covered do better than to visit the Denoix Distillery, it in simple country inns or village bistros, market on the Place de la Guierle. There installed in the heart of Brive since 1839. brasseries, or establishments with Michelin are also traditional open food markets on Apéritifs and liqueurs based on walnuts and stars. But we’re not just talking about Tuesday and Thursday mornings, so there’s red fruits grown locally, macerated, distilled restaurants; it all starts literally at ground plenty of opportunity to see and sample and blended with fine Armagnac or Cognac level, in fields, orchards and vineyards, where our many and varied specialities at their are made, along with La Moutarde Violette de produce of the highest quality begins its life. best. Brive (a mild, tasty mustard flavoured with Many of our products have official quality grape must). The same equipment, methods, certification such as AOP or Label Rouge; If you want the fresh black truffle recipes and ingredients as in the 19th C. are and these are not awarded lightly. experience, you’ll have to come here still used - and the results are every bit as between December and March when good as then! They are all to be found on the numerous they ripen and the truffle markets in markets which flourish in this area. Towns , Martel, Brive, Sarlat and Terrasson and many villages have once or twice are crowded with producers, dealers, weekly markets throughout the year; whilst restaurateurs and visitors inhaling the CASTEL-NOVEL in summer, Local Farmers’ Markets, at inimitable aroma. near Brive-la-Gaillarde which only producers from the surrounding Luxury, beauty and refinement are all to communities can trade, spring up in many Lush green pastures and the famous be found in this splendid manor house places. chestnut-coloured Limousin cattle combine transformed into a 4 stars hotel. to produce excellent milk-fed, naturally- www.castelnovel.com raised veal (no cages). The tender, delicate pinkish-white meat has Label Rouge status; and ’s market is recognised for the consistently high quality of the meat sold here.

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VIN PAILLE As well as enjoying a good meal, you can This area is also home to Vin Paillé, a sweet visit the mill and find out about their farm CHATEAU CANTECOR near Rocamadour wine made by a small number of winemakers products. There is also a walnut oil mill to The perfect hideaway. This 12th C. château who keep this centuries-old tradition alive. visit near Terrasson: Le Moulin de Maneyrol with its lovely view over the Dordogne valley The bunches of grapes are hand-picked, laid in Pazayac, and, in Ste. Nathalène near Sarlat, on trays and allowed to dry naturally before was once a residence of the Marquise de there’s a 16th C. working water mill, both of being pressed. This concentrates the sugars Pompadour. Nowadays, its watch tower is and aromas, giving a white and a red wine that which produce high-quality, flavoursome oil a gîte ‘with charm’ for 2 or 3 people, and can be served chilled as an apéritif, or with foie in the time-honoured way. Tastes good…. in the grounds, perched four metres up in gras, cheeses and desserts. This wine has been and it’s healthy, too! the oak trees, there is the ultimate dream awarded in 2017 by an AOC Corrèze. cabin complete with pigeon-tower and private terrace. There’s plenty to do here, COTEAUX DE IGP WINES AOP PERIGORD WALNUTS with 5 hectares of woods and meadows, 2 This is another small vineyard area close to the These walnuts are produced in the swimming pools and a former bread-oven Dordogne river where commercial production Corrèze, the Lot and the Dordogne made into a barbecue. Your dream come has only relatively recently begun again after (Perigord is the old name of the true from 50€ per night per person. a long period of neglect. One of the smallest www.chateau-cantecor.com recognised vineyard areas in France, its eight Dordogne département).This nut growers work as a cooperative, producing originally came to the area with the easy-drinking reds and rosés with spicy, floral Romans, but has made itself thoroughly notes. at home here, and walnut groves are AU HASARD BALTHAZAR in Martel www.coteauxdeglanes.fr to be seen almost everywhere. Apart In the mediaeval heart of the town, from being sold in shell, walnuts are this restaurant serves high-quality local A very pleasant way of trying our traditional specialities - confit, cassoulet, foie gras - Ferme Auberge Farm Inn transformed into all kinds of delicious cuisine is to visit a or , prepared in their own conservation unit where you can enjoy a meal on a working farm, cakes, biscuits, confectionery (chocolate walnuts are seriously good) and oil. They and also available to buy in the associated prepared largely from their own produce. Near shop. “Acabatz d’intrar” written on the Moulin à l’Huile de Noix are also distilled into liqueurs and spirits, Martel, the run by the door (don’t stand out there, come Castagné family serves meals in a converted or macerated to make walnut wine, a in!) sums up the generous, welcoming hunting lodge, with a walnut-oil mill installed on pleasant apéritif. They garnish salads, philosophy that informs the food. the ground floor. Here, their walnuts are lightly accompany cheeses, and are very good www.lesbouriettes.fr toasted and milled to produce a limpid golden for you into the bargain. oil, excellent for making salad dressing. www.noixduperigord.com www.moulincastagne.com

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The Dordogne Valley itself is very fertile, with earth enriched by flood deposits AOP ROCAMADOUR GOAT’S LE CHATEAU DE LA GREZE over the millennia. Delicate white and CHEESE close to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne green asparagus spears appear in spring, First mentioned in the 15th C., this This 18th C. residence dedicated to the while sweet, succulent, sun-ripened small, flat disc of cheese is very mild and horse, the great passion of the France strawberries perfume our markets in their creamy when young, stronger and drier family, has everything you need to turn. Indeed, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne holds when allowed to mature. Delicious just keep you happy: grounds with ancient the Strawberry Festival every May, with with bread, it can be enjoyed warmed, trees, a swimming pool overlooking the a market, food stalls, a giant strawberry toasted, served with salads, walnuts… countryside… and 5 guest rooms “with tart and various activities to entertain however you like. charm”. Table d’hôte meals on request, visitors. And the Dordogne département is www.aop-rocamadour.com prepared from fresh farm produce. France’s biggest producer of strawberries, www.chateaudelagreze.com so there are plenty to go round.

When it comes to the crunch…. DU BERGER you can always console yourself with a just outside Rocamadour delicious biscuit or cake from Lou Cocal In this beautiful modern structure in artisan biscuit and cake bakers in Sarlat. wood, set amongst truffle oaks, the Their traditional recipes use walnuts and kitchen team provides authentic local chestnuts, and are as good as ever they cuisine using truly local produce sourced were. from nearby farms and businesses: lamb, duck, wine, beer, bread, vegetables… Just north of Rocamadour, you’ll find the Meat is grilled before your eyes in the Borie d’Imbert, a goat farm and dairy. You dining room on a huge barbecue, and can visit the goats in their large, bright, airy you can also enjoy your meal outside on stable (they’re very friendly!) and watch the terrace if you wish. the production of cheese from their milk www.rocduberger.fr through special windows in the dairy walls. www.laboriedimbert.com

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Many of the hillsides in the vicinity of the If you happen to be in the little town of Sarlat also has a very lively open market, river Dordogne are planted with orchards, Souillac on a Friday morning, you’ll have with centuries of tradition behind it. Every their trees laden with pink and white no trouble finding the market, as the stalls Wednesday and Saturday morning, the blossom in spring and the glowing colours occupy every available space in the old old market place and streets leading from of plums, cherries and apples in late streets around the lovely Romanesque it are crowded with stalls piled high with summer. Easy on the eye…and the palate. abbey church. All our local specialities and seasonal produce and local specialities (duck seasonal produce are to be seen there, and goose products well to the fore), and and the old quarter resounds to lively customers with loaded baskets flock to buy conversation and banter, as it must have the best. On Thursday evenings, 17.00 place done in days gone by. du 14 juillet, there’s an organic produce market: there are plenty of local certified THE LOUIS ROQUE DISTILLERY organic farmers to keep it well supplied. - a plum job Set up in Souillac in the 19th C., this LA SALAMANDRE DISTILLERY distillery has an unbroken tradition of - taste that fruit! producing fine fruit and nut spirits, liqueurs In Temniac, 4 kms from Sarlat, this traditional and aperitif wines based on local produce. family distillery produces fruit spirits, They’re open for visits: the tour includes liqueurs and aperitifs, plus jars of fruit in the cellars and production area, and an alcohol, from the the finest crops grown interesting collection of old stills and other in the region and picked at just the right distilling equipment, followed by a tasting. moment. The recipes and methods used Their flagship product isLa Vieille Prune: have been handed down in the family for a fine, smooth plum brandy with the years, and the results prove that the old- unmistakable taste of the fruit. timers certainly knew a thing or two… www.lavieilleprune.com www.distillerie-salamandre.com

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This part of the country has long been If you’re wondering why people round here famous for raising ducks and geese. The don’t all have terrible cholesterol problems, LE GRAND BLEU in Sarlat fattened birds (not force-fed, as such: the you have to take into account the walnuts This restaurant, about 10 minutes walk food goes into a storage pouch, the crop, and red wine regularly consumed (in from the old town centre, offers high- and they digest it as and when they want) moderation!), both of which have anti-aging class food based on seasonal locally give liver for foie gras, and meat for confit, and anti harmful cholesterol properties. It’s sourced produce. The chef, Maxime magret, etc. The birds aren’t made ill by le French Paradox…. Lebrun, takes as his inspiration the the fattening process: they’re naturally able traditional cuisine of the area, whilst to store fat in their liver as well as under The Black Truffle giving it his own personal touch. The the skin in preparation for long migrations. Sometimes called the ‘black diamond’ atmosphere in the dining room is Confit is an ancient method of preserving: because of its high value, the tuber simple, pleasant and convivial. the meat is salted, rinsed, and cooked very melanosporum is a mushroom which www.legrandbleu.eu gently in its own fat, nothing else, until grows underground on the rootlets of tender. It used to be stored tightly packed trees - usually oak trees, but not always. It in earthenware jars with the clarified fat likes alkaline soil, and the limestone rock poured over it, now it’s most often found of this area is its ideal terrain. As it isn’t in tins. The traditional accompaniment to visible, pigs were once used to hunt them grilled or oven-browned confit is a dish of out, as they have a very acute sense of pommes Sarladaises: potatoes sauteed in smell, and naturally root for them; but as the fat from the confit tin, with chopped pigs aren’t always the most amenable of garlic and parsley. creatures (given half a chance, they’ll snaffle the mushroom themselves), trained truffle hounds now usually do the job.

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Fairs, markets and food festivals

Foires grasses in Brive-la-Gaillarde Cheese Festival in Rocamadour Fête de la Noix in Thegra From November to March 9th June 2019 27th October 2019 Markets specialising in the sale of foie gras, The local AOC Rocamadour goat’s cheese Festival with the walnut in the starring rôle: truffles, goose and duck products is obviously to the fore, but there are many fresh, dried, in cakes, sweets and biscuits, as other fine cheeses of all kinds from the oil, distilled…. it’s crunch time! Truffle market in Terrasson region to be sampled, along with wines www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk Thursday mornings November to from the area and other products. February www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk Fête du Safran du in October 2019 Truffle markets in Sarlat Festival of regional cattle breeding in Two days dedicated to the precious red- Every Saturday December to March, Brive-la-Gaillarde gold spice obtained from the saffron crocus, rue Tourny August 2019 cultivated and used here for centuries. Specialised retail market, all truffles Presentation of cattle, goats, pigs, sheep, Market (foods and craftwork), saffron meal checked and calibrated. draught horses, poultry and birds. A real prepared by some of the Lot’s best chefs, Every Wednesday December to February, farm in the middle of the town with entertainment. 14.30 place de la Mairie. different animations. Horse drawn carriages Wholesale truffle market and pony riding. Sale and tasting of Truffle Fair in regional products, kitchen demonstrations. 14th December 2019 Truffle Festival and Foie Gras and Truffle Processions of confraternities. Make the acquaintance of the renowned Academy in Sarlat www.brive.net Tuber Melanosporum or black truffle, one The 3rd weekend of January sees of the most valuable fungi on the planet. Its renowned chefs from Sarlat and from Chestnut Festival in scent is like no other…. Michelin-starred restaurants in the area October 2019 www.foiretruffes.fr come together to give demonstrations of Market selling chestnuts in various forms and lessons in the preparation of these and products based on them. Traditional iconic specialities. The Academy gives young presentation and tasting of The Giant chefs the chance to be creative with these Chestnut on Sunday afternoon. LOCAL FARMERS’ MARKETS delicacies. www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk In summer, these markets are a great www.sarlat-tourisme.com opportunity to meet local farmers and find out about the rich and diverse Fest’Oie Goose Festival in Sarlat produce of the Dordogne valley, from 1st weekend of March each year fruit and vegetables to conserves, The goose comes to town in a big way. pâtés and jams. Only producers from Find out everything there is to know the surrounding area are allowed to from egg to feather… fun workshops for have stalls, and there is usually a festive children, gigantic meal based on specialities atmosphere, with the opportunity to this generous bird provides. stay and make a meal from the products www.sarlat-tourisme.com you have bought.

Strawberry Festival SUMMER MARKETS in Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne , Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Beynat, 12th May 2019 Chartrier-Ferrière, Monceaux-sur- Strawberry market, giant tart, food stalls, Dordogne, Saillac, Sainte-Féréole, hot-air ballooning etc. Carennac, Lacave, Miers, Souillac, La www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk Roque Gageac, Lachapelle-Auzac, Saint Genies, le Saillant.

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Arts and crafts Page 29

Not far north of Brive, near the mediaeval In the village of Collonges-la-Rouge, Le village of , Les Pans de Travassac Couteau de Corrèze, a handcrafted knife in RESTAURANT LE PERIGORD provides a fascinating insight into the the traditional local style, first reflected the in Donzenac extraction and preparation of roofing slate, light of day in 1995 when Eric Peyronnaud The young chef Johnny Thevenin uses the large deposits of which are found locally. set up his workshop here. The Corrèze best local products in his own style (foie gras, traditionally-raised milk-fed veal…) Exploited since the 16th C., this quarry was knife has its own registered trademark, and and serves some dishes on the slate! the only one to survive the collapse of the has an unusual design as regards both its Tel: 00 33 5 55 85 72 34 industry in the 20th C. and is now thriving, shape and its spring, formed like a sweet thanks to high demand linked to the chestnut leaf. Short guided tours of the LE CANTOU in Collonges-la-Rouge renovation of old buildings and for new workshop are provided free, so that you A village inn where you can eat outdoors builds as well. Over the centuries, towering can appreciate the craft of the knife-maker. beneath a trellis surrounded by the lovely 100m cliffs have been carved out, forming www.atelier-couteaux.com red sandstone buildings of Collonges. On a spectacular backdrop to the visit, during the menu: omelettes with chanterelles which you can find out all about the highly (a real local treat), beefsteaks and a skilled craft of the slate workers. choice of desserts (flognardes - fruit tarts www.lespansdetravassac.com with fruit in season), walnut cakes and home-made jams containing unusual combinations of fruits. Tel: 00 33 5 55 84 25 15 www.lecantou.fr

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It’s a pleasure to watch clay taking shape In the little town of Bretenoux on the LA BASTIDIE in Noailhac and life beneath the nimble fingers of , not far from its confluence with the Restaurant and little charming hotel set Laetitia Robert whose Meyssac workshop Dordogne, is the glass-blowing workshop in the medieval village of Noailhac. Chef is open to the public. This young artist of Olivier Mallemouche. Here, from air, earth Arnaud Sosta offers inventive cuisine objects, linked to the and fire he conjures up art pieces whose creates everyday and gourmet cooking based art of setting a table beautifully, plus a jewel colours would grace Ali Baba’s cavern. on fresh seasonal. Enjoy rt in the elegant whole range of vases, lamps, mirrors, His speciality is the insertion of drawings, and cosy dining room. chandeliers… and even more unusual… faces, calligraphy or abstract graffiti on a www.la-bastidie.fr Laetitia also produces to order épis de brilliantly coloured background in between faîtage or finials, which traditionally crown layers of clear glass. Clearly brilliant. L’AUBERGE DE LA FONTAINE the roofs of the fine residences and typical www.mallemouche.com in Autoire local houses in this area. This village inn, close to the old fountain www.poterie-meyssac.com from which it takes it name, is an 18th LES REMPARTS DE CASTELNAU C. building in the heart of one of the in Most Beautiful Villages in France, deep in Just below the castle of Castelnau, a a limestone gorge. Enjoy local cuisine lovely restaurant with a shady terrace with a deft, delicate touch of innovation and beautiful views over the Dordogne in the dining-room or out on the Valley. terrace in fine weather. Tel: 00 33 5 65 38 52 88 www.auberge-de-la-fontaine.com www.restaurantlesremparts.jimdo.com

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STAINED GLASS STUDIO L’HOSTELLERIE BELLE RIVE THE FARM INN AT THE WALNUT in Rocavitraux in Gagnac-sur-Cère OIL MILL in Martel The stained glass creation and On the banks of one of the Dordogne’s This walnut oil mill is run by the restoration studio founded by Chantal loveliest tributaries, this restaurant Castagné family, farmers and walnut- Jean in 1994 is in the «Maison de la serves the best of our local produce growers. This former hunting lodge has Pommette», a 13th C. mediaeval house prepared and served with all the been turned into a walnut oil mill which in Rocamadour. The studio is open to inspiration and inventiveness of a young functions in walnut season and when the public in the form of didactic visits and passionate chef. Enjoy it in the there are demonstrations for the public. from April to October. Chantal Jean also elegant yet cosy dining room, or on the A grindstone crushes the kernels and a offers holiday leisure courses in stained shady terrace when it’s fine. hydraulic press extracts the oil. This site glass making for beginners in the studio www.bellerive-dordogne-lot.com is designated ‘site du goût’ (site of taste). for adults and adolescents, adapted to For sale on site : walnut oil, a delicious your needs. hazelnut oil and the traditional walnut Tel: 00 33 5 65 33 73 10 wine of Quercy. [email protected] FERME DES ALIX Tel: 00 33 5 65 37 40 69 www. rocavitraux.pagesperso-orange.fr Lavender has been growing on the www.moulincastagne.com causse plateau around Rocamadour for centuries. La Ferme des Alix is an organic farm and essential oils distillery offering produce from the farm or from local producer: honey, chocolate, beauty products… Guided tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5.30. 46500 ROCAMADOUR - Les Alix 09 64 33 72 57 - 06 47 07 69 94 www.fermedesalix.fr

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Go with the flow Page 33

Imagine yourself floating gently down a river Continuing on towards Carennac, the The little mediaeval town of Souillac awaits in whose fresh, quiet waters are reflected Dordogne winds its way peacefully between you, whose old quarter and modern the blue of the sky, the green of the well-tended fields where you may find Museum of Automata provide plenty of vegetation on the banks and the balconies strawberries or asparagus, according to interest to tempt you to stop off for a while of old houses overhanging the waterside…. season. Tributaries such as the Cère and the here. This is the start of a canoeing trip which Bave flow in on the left bank, and the river takes you down the river Dordogne from splits into channels embracing verdant islands. Beyond this point, as you make your Argentat-sur-Dordogne to La Roque Gageac way down to La Roque Gageac, some and Beynac, with overnight stops on the The next stage of the journey takes you subtle differences begin to creep into way. Higher up the valley, the river runs down to Saint-Sozy. On the way, the the landscape: the hillsides clothed with fast and wild through steep gorges, but scenery changes, as the river begins to oak trees are interspersed with cliffs of a on this section it is much more calm and carve its way through the limestone plateau, honey-gold hue. These are crowned with mature, and suitable for those who have no creating spectacular cliffs on either side and a succession of castles, including Montfort, previous canoeing experience. meandering past proud rocky promontories. overlooking the enormous meander Don’t be surprised if you see a steam train (known as a cingle) of the same name, Setting off from Argentat-sur-Dordogne, puffing its way slowly along about 80m up on which has more walnut trees growing in it with all its long history linked to the river, the cliffs on the right bank: it’s a tourist train than in a squirrel’s wildest dreams.... the first stage of your trip takes you down that runs on the old line from Martel to St. to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, through a gentle, Denis-les-Martel. In La Roque Gageac and also in the village bucolic landscape. The valley here is quite of Beynac, a little further downstream, you open, with a fertile flood plain rising gently Then float gently on down to Souillac, past can take a rest from paddling but still stay towards green, wooded hills. There are more impressive cliffs. On the way, you pass on the water, by taking a round trip in a plenty of places where you can pull your the riverside village of Lacave, where the gabarre; a replica of the cargo boats that canoe out on to a little beach, to enjoy a entrance to an enormous cave (open to the once took goods down as far as Bordeaux. picnic, just relax or have a swim. public) opens in the hillside. Soon after this, a small tributary, the , flows in on the Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne is another place left, and where the waters meet, Belcastel whose rich history and heritage is closely castle stands sentinel atop the narrow allied to the river, including an old Penitents’ promontory, as it has for centuries. After Chapel on the riverside where the the next meander, you glide beneath the ‘gabariers’ or boatmen who once plied their white-walled Château de la Treyne on its bluff, trade on the Dordogne used to pray for a guarding the river passage. safe voyage.

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You can also follow the course of the river on foot or by bike, and there is ample USEFUL ADDRESSES GABARE BOAT TRIPS ON THE DORDOGNE opportunity for fishing en route: Professional service-providers offer one or From Spontour/ several day canoe trips: These excursions by traditional, flat-bottomed A reel experience boats provide a unique opportunity to explore the Dordogne Valley and its magnificent Fishing has long been one of France’s SAFARAID DORDOGNE CANOË NATURE gorges by retracing the lives of local “gabariers” favourite pastimes, and there’s no - intrepid boatmen who carried wood in Monceaux-sur-Dordogne, Beaulieu-sur- better place to indulge in it than along downstream to Bordeaux for use in the wine the Dordogne and its tributaries. The Dordogne, and Saint-Sozy and barrel-making industries. fact that the area has been designated www.safaraid.com Tourist Office Gorges de la Haute Dordogne as a Biosphere Reserve by Unesco www.cc-gorges-haute-dordogne.fr/gabare is an indication of the quality of the ESCAPADE NATURE PAYS D’ARGENTAT environment, and the variety of wildlife, in Argentat-sur-Dordogne From Argentat-sur-Dordogne and Beaulieu- www.escapadenatureargentat.com sur-Dordogne. including fish, bears this out. Indeed, the GABARE LA SPONTOURNOISE III AND waters of the Dordogne are now so clean ADELE ET CLARISSE PORT LOISIRS that wild salmon have been successfully Dordogne Valley Tourist Office reintroduced - but you’re not allowed to in Martel, Gluges/Creysse www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk fish for those! www.compagnie-sports-nature.com 05 55 91 09 94 [email protected] However, there are plenty of species COPEYRE CANOË Further downstream, there are excursions in which you can take, including shad, bleak, in Souillac similar boats from La Roque Gageac and Beynac, carp, barbel, pike, zander, perch… and www.copeyre.com taking you past some of the most impressive of many more. Fly-fishing is a very popular the many castles dotted along the river valley, and sport here, and enthusiasts even breed PÉRIGORD AVENTURE LOISIRS often giving you excellent glimpses of the local wildlife - herons, kingfishers, black kites amongst special coqs de pêche (fishing cocks), in Vitrac others. whose feathers are used as lures for trout www.perigordaventureloisirs.com and grayling. Holiday fishing licences are From La Roque Gageac easily obtained: details - and much other SAGA TEAM GABARRES LES CAMINADES information - given in a guide to angling in Carennac [email protected] available from all local Tourist Offices. You’ll www.canoe-dordogne-lot.com LES GABARRES NORBERT soon be hooked! www.norbert.fr From Beynac LES GABARRES DE BEYNAC Go with the flow www.gabarre-beynac.com Page 35

Come into the garden... Page 36

Much has been said elsewhere about the On the cliffs overlooking the Dordogne Eastwards up the valley, just beyond natural beauty of this area, but there are Valley about 10 kms from Sarlat lie the Souillac, the 14th and 17th C. Château de la also places where people have literally taken gardens of Marqueyssac. This were once Treyne still watches over the river. It is now matters into their own hands to enhance it the grounds of a small château, now seen a 4 star hotel with a Michelin restaurant, even further. All the great civilisations, from in its 18th C. form, and were laid out in and stands in a vast park planted with time immemorial, have created gardens as the 19th C. There are three main paths, all beautiful old ornamental trees of many part of their artistic and cultural expression, leading towards the belvédère, a magnificent different species. Pleasant paths wind in indeed as part of their daily lives, and that viewpoint overlooking the river, and on and out amongst the trees, making for tradition continues unabated. certain evenings in summer, the gardens some delightful walks. There is also a formal are illuminated by thousands of candles, French-style garden, and both the garden In Terrasson, Les Jardins de l’Imaginaire, with musical entertainment provided. and grounds are open to the public, even created by the Franco-American landscape Children are well catered for: amongst if you’re not staying or eating at the hotel. architect Kathryn Gustafson and her partner, other things, they can get safely lost in the Mind you, it’s not a bad place to do either… Philippe Marchand, are a contemporary boxwood labyrinth trimmed to look like the or why not both? evocation of fragments of the long history undulating hills of the area, and there’s an www.chateaudelatreyne.com of this partnership between Man and on-site restaurant, shop, etc. A good way of Nature, and make allusions to universal getting some gentle exercise to work off all myths about the natural world. As the name that good food you’ve been eating…. implies, the 13 garden rooms stimulate the www.marqueyssac.com imagination as well as the physical senses. There are water gardens, a rose garden, a fine display of fuchsias, literally thousands of trees and shrubs…no wonder that these gardens have received several official accolades, and the site itself, above the old town, is worth an accolade of its own. A unique and special place to visit. www.jardins-imaginaire.com

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Should you visit the city of Cahors, don’t Touring around this part of the country is In , just north west of Brive, stands miss the Secret Gardens: a series of 25 small one thing, but if you go to , about the Château de Castel Novel (now a four-star gardens, often tucked away in a courtyard 12 kms east of Collonges-la-Rouge, you hotel) where the famous French author, or in a corner, hence the name, all linked by can do a world tour just by walking round Colette (1873-1954), stayed on many a mediaeval theme, which corresponds to the Parc Botanique. These botanical gardens occasions between 1912-23. She grew the city’s rich heritage from that period. occupy 2 hectares, and as you follow the up with a great love of animals and plants, There’s le courtil, a mediaeval kitchen garden, marked path, you go past various beds, writing about them very observantly and l’herbularius, Brother Cadfael territory, each representing a climatic region within affectionately. Les Jardins de Colette, close to with medicinal plants commonly used at the world’s temperate z ones. Wander the château, are a contemporary evocation that time, vines representing the Black botanically from Canada to Patagonia, through plants of six different landscapes Wine of Cahors… A leaflet is available (in Siberia to New Zealand, from the jungles she knew and loved during her life. There English!) from the Tourist Office, showing of Asia to the deserts of America, all is an intricate labyrinth (lose the little dears the location of all the gardens, and the in the space of one afternoon (David for half an hour) in the shape of a butterfly, suggested itinerary is marked on the ground Attenborough would be proud of you). named Bel Gazou for her only daughter. by bronze plaques showing an acanthus leaf. There are some rather cute goats and There are guided tours, or you can walk sheep to keep the children interested. around as you please with an audio-guide A particularly good time to visit is in June, www.jardin-de-lostanges.com available in English. Be literary and botanical when the Cahors Juin Jardins festival takes all at once. place: gardens not normally accessible to At Sothys Contemporary Botanical Garden www.lesjardinsdecolette.com the public are open, there are installations in Auriac you step into an elegant and and decorations all over the place; and harmonious garden created by local there is also a national garden festival at cosmetics company Sothys, in 2007. that time, Its 4 hectares are divided into themed Rendez-vous Aux Jardins gardens and areas inspired by beauty and cosmetics. www.cahorsjuinjardins.blogspot.fr There are beautiful classic, French, Japanese and Rose gardens and a White, Egyptian, Perfume and Sun area. www.lesjardinssothys.com Come into the garden Page 38

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If you’d like to see the Dordogne Valley’s MONTGOLFIADES cliffs, wooded slopes and hilltop villages Rocamadour ROCAMADOUR AÉROSTAT from a very different angle, you could opt 29th and 30th September 2018 www.rocamadour.aerostat.free.fr for a pleasure flight in ahot-air balloon. Hot-air balloon festivals: the amazing sight of Gliding silently above the countryside gives dozens of balloons filling the air and taking MONTGOLFIÈRE DU PÉRIGORD you a real sense of the geography and part in races. Flights from Beynac and La Roque layout of the landscape, and the bird’s eye Gageac view reveals hidden gems that you’d never www.montgolfiere-du-perigord.com see from the ground. CORRÈZE MONTGOLFIÈRE To get yourself aloft, contact Frédéric (Two flight zones: Collonges-la-Rouge/ Curemonte/Turenne/Auriac/Brive/ Pompadour). Every day on reservation 1st April to early November. www.correze.montgolfiere.fr

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....and on the ground

If you prefer to remain firmly in contact COIROUX GOLF COURSE in Aubazine SOUILLAC GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB with Mother Earth, and particularly if you Parc du Coiroux - AUBAZINE in Lachapelle-Auzac are partial to a round of golf, this can also Tel: 00 33 5 55 27 25 66 Le Mas del Teil - 46200 LACHAPELLE be arranged with no trouble at all. The [email protected] AUZAC Coiroux course near Aubazine takes you 18 hole course. Tel: 00 33 5 65 27 56 00 over a gently undulating course, through Restaurant, terrace, 1 seminar room. 18 hole golf course varied types of woodland, from beech www.golf-coiroux.com Bar/brasserie/restaurant, seminar room and chestnut to birch and larch. Brive golf High standard holiday rental homes course in the Planchetorte valley has a Accommodation nearby: Hotel “de of various capacities set around the tree-lined watercourse running through it, charme” Château de Castel Novel perimeter of the course. On the first tee which provides a very interesting natural Very well situated just 1 0 minutes drive straight after breakfast. hazard. Souillac Golf and Country Club in from Brive-la-Gaillarde, Castel Novel - www.souillaccountryclub.com verdant, undulating countryside, is the Lot’s originally a feudal castle - is a magnificent only 18 hole course, providing challenges hotel set in 40 hectares of grounds. MONTAL GOLF COURSE for experienced golfers, but still giving Once the residence of a famous French in Saint-Jean-Lespinasse beginners a chance!. The Montal course authoress, Colette, it has become a 27 Marot Bas - 46400 SAINT JEAN near St. Céré has a beautiful 16th C. room hotel ‘with charm’, where luxury and LESPINASSE château as a backdrop on the hill above it - refinement are the key words.To cap it ail, Tel: 00 33 5 65 10 83 09 what more could you ask for? the restaurant now boasts one Michelin Fax: 00 33 5 65 38 07 16 star; thanks to the Chef Nicolas Soulié. 9 hole course. www.castelnovel.com Clubhouse (bar/restaurant) with pro shop. www.golf-montal.fr BRIVE-PLANCHETORTE GOLF COURSE in Brive-la-Gaillarde 3 star hotel and restaurant Les Trois Soleils Vallée de Planchetorte - 19100 BRIVE de Montal beside course. In a beautiful Tel: 00 33 5 55 87 57 57 setting near the magnificent Renaissance Fax: 00 33 5 55 87 48 28 Château de Montal, this very comfortable [email protected] hotel has another ace up its sleeve, or 18 hole municipal course. rather its chef’s toque: a gourmet restaurant Club house, bar/restaurant, pro shop. with one Michelin star. Feast your eyes and www.golfdebrive.com your palate all at the same time. www.3soleils.fr Accommodation nearby: Château de Lissac Tel: 00 33 5 65 10 16 16 5 wheatears Luxury B&B. Overlooking the Causse lake, this château with its historic architecture is a harmonious marriage of ancient and modern set in beautiful grounds. The 5 guest rooms, of an extreme refinement, are imbued with an atmosphere of quiet serenity. www.chateaudelissac.com

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The vast stretches of unspoiled countryside Changing track, Le Truffadou tourist train Not far away in Souillac, and still on a in this region are the perfect playground for takes you on a return trip from Martel to mechanical theme, there is the Musée de children and adults alike, with opportunities St. Denis-lès-Martel and back via several l’Automate, which has a large collection of for all kinds of outdoor activities - walking, short tunnels and a section of line cut into working automata, from the first type of swimming, cycling, boating, riding, etc. that can the cliffs high above the Dordogne Valley: mechanical toy made in the eighteenth be enjoyed by the whole family - and there are the views are superb. The train’s name century to the sophisticated, electrically- also man-made attractions, such as theme or comes from the fact that the line was controlled displays that used to grace the wildlife parks. Don’t expect Disneyland! - many once used to transport truffles from this windows of large department stores at of the attractions here are linked to the natural area to be marketed far and wide. Some Christmas time. The models are seen working, world, and often literally an integral part of it. departures have a steam locomotive pulling the sequence of displays controlled by an Here’s a selection to give you a few ideas. the old-fashioned carriages (covered but electronic brain. Unusual and amusing. open to the air); at other times it’s a diesel. www.musee-automate.fr Just south of , not far from Fascinating both for train buffs and for Rocamadour, you’ll find the Parc Animalier de general interest. Further up the valley, just outside Neuville Gramat. This large wildlife park on the Causse, www.trainduhautquercy.info near Argentat, you can take a walk with the with its vast enclosures, is home to many Three Little Pigs. A shady, flat 2km long path European mammalian and bird species, most of In Rocamadour itself, the Rocher des Aigles is takes you past all sorts of structures on the which once lived in this area but were hunted a bird sanctuary largely dedicated to birds ‘little pigs’ theme, including the houses of to extinction. The vegetation is left entirely in of prey from around the world, although the Three Little Pigs, a giant money box, and its natural state, and the animals live outdoors there are a few other species as well. There others. A lively and amusing way of bringing in herds or family groups as in the wild. There are demonstrations each day when they the nursery rhyme to life. is also a conservatory of endangered domestic allow birds to fly free before returning to www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk species, and you can get close up and personal their handlers. After the demonstration, with the (adorable) animals. you can see the spacious aviaries which www.gramat-parc-animalier.com obviously suit the birds, as most of the species reproduce regularly; and when Prehisto-Dino Parc in Lacave - discover the possible, young ones are released back into fascinating world of dinosaurs and the the wild. A really interesting visit. evolution of mankind with life-size models and www.rocherdesaigles.com scenes of prehistorical life. www.prehistodino.com La Forêt des Singes Also in Rocamadour, be ready for a Durandal in Rocamadour - the legend of the unique encounter: 130 monkeys (Barbary mythical sword Durandal lives on in this macaques) are roaming free in 50 acres of wonderful equestrian show. beautiful forest. www.parcdurandal.com www.la-foret-des-singes.com

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The Dordogne Valley Tourist Office in Rocamadour, Martel, Souillac and Saint­ Céré offers English treasure hunt to discover the city. lt’s free and the game is designed by age group for children from 4 to 12 years. www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk

Also in Meyssac (as well as Collonges-la- In July and August, in the streets and in Fortified by this, in summer you may well Rouge, Curemonte.Turenne, Souillac and the little squares of old Sarlat, there’s a find yourself being entertained in the streets Martel), on several occasions in July and lot going on. Not just the usual markets of the old town by itinerant performers, August there are Balades aux Flambeaux: or other regular activities, but street rather as in Sarlat. Don’t let the delicious evening walks through the mediaeval streets entertainment. Performers of all kinds - chocolate you’ve bought melt, though… with participants carrying flaming torches or jugglers, jesters, dancers, actors, musicians take it with you to enjoy on a boat trip luminous batons, and characters from fairy - pop up all over the place. Very reminiscent on the Vézère. The Terra sunt provides a tales and legends appearing and disappearing. of the , when Sarlat was a rich delightful, relaxing 40 minutes river cruise, These old villages are quite magical seen by town with a prosperous population, for giving lovely views of the old town and the torchlight. whom such entertainers would have been surrounding countryside, plus information www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk happy to perform. about local history and the once all- www.brive-tourisme.com important river trade. Tickets are sold at Another very interesting and unusual place the Tourist Office, a mere 20m from the Near Brive-la-Gaillarde, the la Fage chasm to visit is the Chocolaterie Bovetti in Terrasson, embarkation point. offers a cave visit with a difference for www.ot-terrasson.com children of 6 and over, the Escapade whose patron, or boss, Monsieur Bovetti, is Souterraine. The galleries 25m below ground a Master Chocolatier. As well as producing cycling are full of beautiful formations (stalactites, excellent chocolates (including a range of As previously mentioned, is an activity stalagmites, etc.); there is a caving circuit for organic products) from the finest cocoa that families can share, and a very good beginners, and a workshop on fossils. Plus beans, as you would expect, he has also set place to do it is on the ‘voie verte’ (green one of the largest bat colonies to be seen in up a Museum of Chocolate. Here, you can road) between Sarlat and Cazoulès. This Europe… what price Dracula? learn everything about chocolate, from the is a disused railway line running along the www.gouffre-de-la-fage.com production of cocoa beans to the finished Dordogne Valley, a section of which has been article. At the end of the visit, during which converted into a very safe, well-shaded track Also near Brive, in , there’s the ideal you see chocolate being made, children are with a good, smooth surface, ideal for anyone place for the kids (age 3 and over) to work invited to make a chocolate shape from a who is walking, riding a cycle or MBK, on off any surplus energy they have the Parc mould, and, of course, there is an (irresistible) roller skates, or for wheelchairs. It provides Wizz’titi This offers five different ‘adventure opportunity to do some tasting…. views of the valley and its villages, and there circuits’, a 100m long zip-wire, an aerial circuit www.bovetti.com aren’t any steep gradients, so it’s suitable for and a ‘barefoot path’ with various types of everyone. On your bike... surface to provide a range of sensations. www.sarlat-tourisme.com Should keep them happy for hours. www.wizztiti.fr

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Whether you’re on a long holiday, or just The accommodation should appeal to all NESTS FOR NATURE LOVERS taking a short break, a good night’s sleep in your senses: sight by the harmonious use Get really close to Nature in the Dordogne comfortable accommodation is an essential of colours, and lovely views; hearing by the Gorges. Set in beautiful oak and chestnut part of the experience. There is no shortage absence of intrusive noise, replaced by the woods, 5 tree-houses await you, each with a of hotels, bed and breakfast or other sounds of Nature; touch by the texture of terrace and lovely views over the Dordogne. establishments in this area which fit the bill; furnishing materials used; taste by the home Ideal for families, friends or couples wanting but if you’re in search of something just made produce and local specialities served; to be together, they are built in locally that little bit different, out of the ordinary, smell by the aroma of your hot coffee or sourced wood, and provide all the comfort or very, very special… here’s a few ideas to chocolate at breakfast, or the flowers in of a modern structure, including bathroom get you tucked up in the bed that’s perfect the vase on your table… Last, but certainly facilities in every cabin. Towels and organic for you… not least, your hosts are also sure to be hygiene products provided. Breakfast is charming themselves! delivered to the foot of your tree, to be pulled up by the earliest riser! You can also CHATEAU DE LA GREZE order food baskets for other meals: gourmet HOTELS AND B & B ‘DE CHARME’ Close to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne in the vegetarian, gourmet local food, or Some hotels and B & B have a special Dordogne Valley, this 18th C. manor house a special young person’s basket. Everything in charm all of their own, recognised in a wooded setting providing lovely views this exceptional environment invites you to by the award of ‘hôtel/Chambre has been transformed into a guest house relax and dream sweet dreams… d’hôte de Charme’ status. Charming with a real difference, in terms of the www.hetresouslecharme.com Hotels/B & B are judged on various comfort provided and the spaciousness criteria, whether they are es tablished of the accommodation. 5 individually- LA VILLA ROMAINE in a château, a fine old town house, a decorated guest rooms with private After the Roman conquest of , the manor or a country cottage: they will facilities. The owners, Anne and Philippe powerful amongst the invaders acquired be in a particularly attractive setting, France, are equally devoted to horses and large country estates, upon which they had and especial care will have been taken to local cuisine, which you can enjoy at their fine villas built, and this hotel is on the site of to use authentic, high-quality materials table d’hôte. one of these. The original owner would not such as wood and stone in their www.chateaudelagreze.com feel out of place here today, looking out from construction and decoration. the comfort of the hotel over the glorious, unspoiled countryside beside the Dordogne river only 7 kms from Sarlat. No need to be a Roman dignitary: all are welcome to enjoy the amenities and surroundings! www.lavillaromaine.com Sweet dreams Page 46

BALCON EN FÔRET CHAMBRES D’HÔTES LES INSTANTS MANOIR DE MALAGORSE Bed and breakfast in a superb group of VOLÉS This 19th C. stone-built manor house in buildings typical of Perigord with 2 hectares ldeally situated between Beaulieu-sur­ verdant countryside between Souillac and of grounds in a lovely setting above the Dordogne and Collonges-la-Rouge, this Martel has been converted by the owners, Dordogne, and standing on a lane leading to charming guesthouse proposes you at the Anna (who is English) and her husband Abel, the centre of Beynac. Very spacious suites, with first floor a sleeping area in the enormous into a luxury guest house with four fireplaces in the local style. renovated barn and on the ground floor a individually-designed bedrooms and two www.guests.ladordogne.info wellness area with spa, sauna, hammam and suites. No detail is neglected, from the massage room. A bar corner with billiard, elegant interiors to the lovely gardens and HÔTEL LE CLOS LA BOÉTIE a library lounge and a swimming pool are pool, all set in 5 hectares of grounds. This isn’t In the fascinating town of Sarlat, a short walk available for the guests.The original diner is just bed and breakfast, more a way of life. from the old quarter, an elegant 19th C. family in summer being served on the terrace or www.manoir-de-malagorse.fr residence stands ready to transport you to in the panoramic conservatory. the gracious lifestyle of the past enhanced www.les-instants-voles-spa.fr LA MAISON D’ANNE FOUQUET with every modern amenity. Indulge yourself Imagine a vista of the wooded slopes of in some 5 star luxury in this hotel “with LE MIEL DES MUSES in Brive-la-Gaillarde the Dordogne Valley reflected in the river charm” and just about everything else as Close to the historic city center, Le Miel des as it washes gently at the foot of La Roque well: heated pool in the garden, suites with Muses offers 9 refined, originally-designed, Gageac, with canoeists floating by and four-poster beds, period furniture, fitness and XXL guest rooms with private facilities. perhaps a gabarre in the distance… then well-being centre, attentive service…what Terrace and little swimming-pool only for turn it into reality, by staying in this guest more could you ask for? guests on the second floor. house. The three spacious, south-facing www.au-grand-hotel-de-sarlat.com www.lemieldesmuses.fr rooms, in a building separate from the owners’ home, are tastefully designed and LES HAUTS DE MAGRIÈRES in Martel CHÂTEAU DE LACAN furnished to cosset you with every possible Not far from the village of Martel, beautiful in Brive-la-Gaillarde comfort. Take breakfast on the terrace and house with very modern design overlooking Château de Lacan is a charming 4-star hotel enjoy the view…. the Dordogne river. Lovely grounds and with 15 comfortable and spacious rooms www.laroquegageac.com swimming pool. close to Brive town centre. You can relax in www.lesmagrieres.fr the large garden and the bar/lounge where all your needs are catered for. It is the perfect place for an overnight stay or a leisurely holiday. Come to Château de Lacan for a unique experience. www.hotelchateaulacan.com Sweet dreams Page 47

LES ESCLARGIES CHATEAU DE LA TREYNE LA MAISON DE MARQUAY This hotel ‘au naturel’ in Rocamadour is about Feudal lords no longer rule the land, but This place in a picturesque village 7 kms as natural as it could be: built of stone and they have left us a magnificent legacy of from Sarlat is neither a hotel nor a bed-and- wood, it was literally constructed around the castles, many of which are now superb breakfast: it’s a guest house of great charm oak trees already growing in the grounds. prestige hotels. Such a one is the 4 star La with a high-class restaurant. Delight your eyes Designed to respect the ecological principles of Treyne, solidly anchored on a low cliff right and find repose in the very comfortable harmony between Man, animals and the land beside the Dordogne not far from Souillac. bedrooms designed on clean, contemporary enshrined in the du Quercy Regional If that wasn’t enough, the grounds cover lines, refresh yourself in the pool in the garden, Natural Park, comfort and luxury have in no 120 hectares, and the restaurant has a and treat your taste buds to a delicious meal, way been neglected. Quite the contrary; and Michelin star. Why not come and live like a prepared with the utmost care from the finest the refined, elegant contemporary decor lord for a while…in far greater comfort and local ingredients… a dream experience all reflects the tranquillity of the scenery. luxury than in mediaeval times, of course! round. www.esclargies.com www.chateaudelatreyne.com www.maisondemarquay.fr

PONT DE L’OUYSSE LES ROULOTTES DU PETIT GOUFFRE Cradled in a bay of the cliffs beneath Belcastel Unusual accommodation close to the Padirac castle, where the river Ouysse flows into the Chasm, in the Causses du Quercy Regional Dordogne, the hotel deserves its three stars Natural Park. The ‘gypsy’ caravans are in a very - as does the setting! - and the restaurant is peaceful setting 10 mins walk from Padirac well worth its Michelin star. The hotel gardens Chasm, in a valley surrounded by pastures and along the Ouysse riverbank provide not only woodland. a pleasant stroll for guests, but also many of www.chambredhote-padirac-rocamadour.com the vegetables that deliciously grace the dishes served in the restaurant. A more peaceful, idyllic place would be hard to imagine. www.lepontdelouysse.com

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Festivals and fun in the Dordogne Valley area Page 49

The historic towns and villages, castles, churches, lovely landscapes and sometimes even the spectacular caves of this area make a perfect backdrop to all kinds of events and festivals, covering every kind of theme imaginable, plus some you might never have thought of. This is the perfect place to enjoy yourself - corne and join in the fun!

VIDEO MAPPING ON SIM COPANS Jazz Festival SAINT CÉRÉ & HAUT QUERCY SAINT SOUR CHURCH 13th to 20th July 2019 FESTIVAL Every evening during summer 2019 Souillac 28th July to 11th August 2019 Terrasson Fresh and unconventional, the programme Saint Céré and elsewhere this festival puts on always surprises audiences This festival is full of humour and new Street Entertainment Festival with the original nature of its concerts. The ideas, putting vocal and instrumental music LES CHEMINS DE L’IMAGINAIRE aim is to bring together jazz musicians from on stage in some of the Lot’s famous July 2019 widely differing cultures to facilitate exchanges monuments (the Théâtre de l’Usine in Saint Château Terrasson that can enrich us all. A different approach to Céré, Souillac abbey church, the de Montal, For these five days, the streets of the old quarter, jazz for a different public! Cahors Cathedral, Castelnau the squares, the bridges and the roads beside www.souillacenjazz.fr Bretenoux castle). the river become the stage for street theatre www.scenograph.fr and circus companies and musicians ready to BRIVE FESTIVAL PÉRIGORD NOIR CLASSICAL MUSIC amuse, delight and surprise all passers-by. All 18th to 21st July 2019 FESTIVAL performances entirely free. ln 10 years, thanks to a never ending rich www.ot-terrasson.com July and August, Périgord Noir area and various program, combining various The concerts take place in lovely old international headliners, French artists, FESTIVAL DE LA VÉZÈRE churches which are listed buildings in villages dancing and singing groups of world music 9th July to 22th August 2019 dotted around in the Terrasson/Sarlat area. and local talent, the event has become the Vézère Valley around Brive-la-Gaillarde Please ask at local Tourist Offices for the full n°1 contemporary music festival in the area, Internationally renowned artistes and young programme (yet to be announced). created in the city centre of Brive. www.festivalmusiqueperigordnoir.com prodigies rub shoulders at the Festival de la www.brivefestival.com Vézère, where everybody who is anybody in classical music is to be seen. This itinerant festival offers a wide artistic diversity: opera evenings in the setting of a castle, choirs, poetry, concerts, music workshops for children. www.festival-vezere.com

Festivals and fun in the Dordogne Valley area Page 50

LES MÉDIÉVALES DE ROCAMADOUR FESTIVAL DE ROCAMADOUR - FESTIVAL DES NUITS DE NACRE 7th July 2019 SACRED MUSIC 27th - 30th June 2019 Rocamadour August 2019 for 3 weeks Tulle Medieval festival in the city of Rocamadour Rocamadour This old town has a long association with with shows and many events taking you Sublime music in a sublime setting…. what the accordion, which is still manufactured back to the Middle-Ages. better surroundings could there be for this here. Nuits de Nacre brings together in www.rocamadourmedievales.com festival of sacred music than the ancient harmony musicians from diverse musical place of pilgrimage that is Rocamadour? traditions who love the instrument, and on ECO-FRIENDLY ECAUSSYSTÈME Especially as this year one thousand previous occasions has welcomed such stars 26th, 27th and 28th July 2019 years of pilgrimage are being celebrated as Dee Dee Bridgewater, Johnny Clegg and Programme to be announced in the sanctuaries. There are concert Juliette Greco. Gignac performances by world-class artistes, and www.accordeon.org For the 16th year running this small sung Mass is held throughout the week. village in the north of the Lot close to the www.rocamadourfestival.com Brive-Dordogne Valley airport will play host to a lively festival with impeccable eco-principles. lt features contemporary music by artistes from various backgrounds who share the event’s ethos. Everything possible is done to minimise pollution and to avoid waste of energy or resources; there are debates on ecological tapies, and enormous fun is had by all. www.ecaussysteme.com

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Brive Tourisme Terrasson Tourisme www.tourismecorreze.com/en Karine BON Laëtitia DUMONTET www.tourisme-lot.com Tel: 00 33 (0)6 48 60 89 65 Tel: 00 33 (0)5 53 50 86 82 www.ot-terrasson.com E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] www.sarlat-tourisme.com www.visit-dordogne-valley.co.uk Corrèze Tourisme Vallée de la Dordogne Tourisme www.brive-tourisme.com Gilles BERGEAL Marielle LACOMBE Tel: 00 33 (0)5 55 29 98 72 Tel: 00 33 (0)5 65 33 22 05 Tel: 00 33 (0)6 40 36 49 62 E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Cécile MAY Lot Tourisme Tel: 00 33 (5) 65 33 22 00 Anna CRÉPIN E-mail: [email protected] Tel: 00 33 (0)5 65 35 80 86 Tel: 00 33 (0)6 28 67 53 10 E-mail: [email protected]

Sarlat - Périgord Noir Tourisme Photos: © OT Terrasson, OT Sarlat, Lot Katia VEYRET Tourisme, ADRT Corrèze, CRT Occitanie, Tel: 00 33 (0)5 53 31 45 46 OT Brive Agglomération, Dan Courtice, Tel: 00 33 (0)6 77 85 37 91 Dominique Viet, Shutterstock, Anael Dang, E-mail: [email protected] Vuthéarakham, Malika Turin www.aeroport-brive-vallee-dordogne.com