FLAUGEAC, DORDOGNE, FRANCE

Travel Notes

The Dordogne Valley is a trip not to be missed there is a glorious route beside the river. Follow the signs to St. Cyprien & Sarlat/Domme. Do stop at Beynac, La Roque Gageac and Domme, and a trip round the châteaux Biron and Beynac are good value.

Bergerac & Bordeaux wine are both old well-established wine appellations. There are numerous wine routes near the house along which you will find a variety of interesting wines; red, white and sweet. The neighbouring appellation is Bordeaux where there are wines to suite every palette; St. Emillion and Pomeral are about 40minutes drive away.

French street markets; There is one of these famous, colourful events in one or other of the nearby towns every day of the week, well worth a visit to see the range and variety of products sold. Get there before 12 noon.

Circuit des Bastides - The Bastide towns were built during the "Hundred Years War" when England ruled the region, and are are very picturesque. The nearest ones to see are Eymet, Issigeac, Beaumont and Monpazier. If you have time, do go to Monflanquin.

Marche Nocturnale; During the Summer Season, (July & August) there are night markets in the towns nearby. These differ from the day markets in that you walk around the stalls and select both food and drink for your supper and enjoy “al fresco”. There is often some street entertainment too.

Wine festivals are a feature of the summer season and occur in the area where wines are brought to the fair by the producers for tasting and of course sales. These festivals frequently include open entertainment.

Restaurants; As you would expect in France there are many restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets; French, where you will find the famous “foie gras”. Chinese, Indian, Creperie, Pizza, etc. You will find them all in Bergerac only 10miles away. It is an interesting historic town that has undergone impressive restoration recently; an evening stroll is well worth it.

Grottes; There are a number in the region. Visitors are welcome at Lascaux II which is a replica of the original that is now closed to the public to prevent further deterioration. The most spectacular, and one of the best in the world, is "Gouffre de Padirac". It is a long drive to the eastern end of the Dordogne Valley. Whilst there, if you have the time, go to Rocamadour.

Written by Gordon & Heather Smith – Owners of Property 56403 in Flaugeac, France