Dordogne & Bordeaux: France at Its Finest

Dordogne highlights

• Sarlat Market: One of France’s most celebrated markets, Sarlat’s cobbled lanes overflow with fresh produce, truffles, foie gras, cheeses, and vibrant flowers, all set against golden stone medieval architecture.

• Domme medieval village: Perched high above the Dordogne Valley, this fortified bastide village offers panoramic views, charming squares, and a fascinating history dating back to the 13th century.

• Canoeing down the Dordogne: Glide past castles, villages, and farmland from the peaceful vantage point of the river. A quintessential Dordogne experience.

• The caves of Pech Merle: Step into prehistory at Pech Merle, where 17,000-year-old paintings of horses, mammoths, and handprints adorn the walls deep underground.

• Lascaux IV: A stunningly accurate replica of the original Lascaux cave, this immersive experience showcases extraordinary prehistoric art.

• Rocamadour: A dramatic cliffside pilgrimage site, it is home to medieval sanctuaries, winding lanes, and sweeping valley views.

• Château de Beynac: A fortress towering over the Dordogne, this 12th-century castle offers commanding views.

Bordeaux & surroundings

• Saint-Émilion: A UNESCO World Heritage wine village lined with cobblestone streets, underground monolithic churches, and world-class wine estates.

• Cité du Vin: Bordeaux’s interactive wine museum celebrates global wine culture with striking architecture, sensory exhibits, and panoramic city views from the top floor.

• Arcachon and Dune du Pilat: Arcachon is known for the freshest oysters and a climb of Europe’s tallest sand dune for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding pine forests.

• Le Presidential: Housed in the 17th-century Maison du Présidial, the former royal courthouse. You should dine in the expansive, peaceful garden terrace and order dishes such as duck breast, lamb, and fish with green curry.

• Au Chalet Gourmand: Located in Vezac and known for its authentic Perigord-style cuisine, highlighting local specialties such as foie gras, duck breast, and confit.

• Centenaire in Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil: Excellent fixed-price menus and a standout wine list. The restaurant is tucked behind a stone wall, making it feel both exclusive and warm

• La Tupina: Hearty Southwest French fare, all prepared over a central open hearth. Their roast chicken is a specialty.

• Zephirine: A family-owned business—part restaurant, part delicatessen—with a small contemporary menu in a warm setting.