The main draw of this region is the hill country scenery: you’ll find river valleys, woodlands and green meadows, rural villages with traditional limestone houses, 13th- and 14th-century castles, and caves containing prehistoric rock art. As the Dordogne is farm country, the cuisine is traditionally hearty and rich; Périgord truffles are a specialty of the region, along with mushrooms, walnuts, cabécou (goat’s cheese) and wine from the Bergerac region. Goose and duck appear often on menus, and foie gras is a specialty.

The Dordogne is one of France’s many beautiful regions, known for its history spanning the centuries and named for its eponymous river. Half way between the Loire Valley and the Pyrenees, it’s historically called Périgord and is a popular holiday destination for romantic getaways, family holidays and especially foodie hotels and gites. Visitors delight in the pretty villages, diverse natural landscapes, mediaeval churches and renaissance buildings, and of course the fabulous hospitality.

From La Metairie in Mauzac, which brings a Swiss twist to the the Périgord Noir region, to La Chartreuse du Bignac in Saint-Nexans which looks out across the conservation area of the Dordogne and Vézère Valley. From Le Moulin du Roc in Champagnac-de-Belair, run by chef/owner, Alain Gardillou who has a Michelin star to his name, to Manoir d’Hautegente in Coly where you can dine by candlelight, surrounded by flowers and overlooking the water with music playing in the background.

We have a great selection of hotels in Dordogne. Some are located in villages, ideal for a short stopover, and others, located in gorgeous restored castles complete with swimming pool, invite a long and relaxing stay.