Leisure

As one of the principal prehistoric sites in the world there are naturally a number of museums and exhibitions devoted to this topic, Les Eyzies being home to the leading prehistory museum in the world, but there are also a number of caves and other features both above and below ground which are well worth visiting for their own sake, particularly the world famous "Lascaux ll" ( at Montignac), and the Font de Gaume, (at Les Eyzies) the only grotto now open to the public where the original polychrome cave paintings can still be seen (two weeks booking necessary in peak season).

The area has enormous historic interest, dating back to the Knights Templar (imprisoned at Domme), the English rule by Henry 2nd and Eleanor of Aquitane (12 century), the hundred year war, and recently in 1940/45 as Vichy France and a centre of French resistance. There is a superb museum on the Resistance at Bordeaux, and of course the memorial to the German Occupation  at Oradour sur Glane near Limoge (about two hours away).

The wonderful cliffside shrine and village of Rocamadour is roughly 45 minutes away, as is the renowned "Red Town" at Collonge-la-Rouge in the neighbouring Limousin.

Most leisure activities are catered for within a relatively short distance, and there are numerous working exhibitions centred on life in and around the Perigord, ranging from the "gavage" i.e. the raising of geese for foie gras to the nut mills for producing walnut oil (one of the staple products of the area). A great amount of wine is also produced, and there are many places to visit for degustation (tasting), there are "caves" in the area stocking wines ranging in price from 70 cents/ litre to € 3000  a  bottle (the 1971 Petrus), and less than 10 minutes away is a "cave" associated with a  vineyard where the Bergerac AOC can be bought in 5 litre boxes for € 10 .

The Perigord is world renowned for its produce and cuisine, and there are many opportunities to learn about the one and sample the other!
There are many varied walks well sign posted around the area, the terrain is in some ways similar to the Yorkshire Dales but without the Peaks, it is possible to follow the River Dordogne for some hundred miles back along limestone gorges up into the Massif Central which divides France, and a leisurely day can be spent drifting down the river by canoe, there are several hirers available and all provide a return service so that you don't have to paddle back.

This same facility is also available on the River Vezére in the neighbouring valley (approx. 20 min), so there is lots of variety. There is a small airfield at Domme (Domme/Sarlat) where there is a flying club from which aircraft may be hired for sight seeing trips along the valley, the various Chateaux and the cliff side village at Rocamadour are memorable sights, especially in evening sunlight with the long shadows.   and there are now two companies providing flights in hot-air ballons.

Also at Meyrals is an equestrian centre, from which various riding experiences can be arranged.
Bicycles can be hired locally, and the hirer will deliver and collect to and from Le Rocher Rouge, there are many published and sign posted routes off the main roads (and off road all together if you want)
Recently introduced at Beynac (10 min) is an Air park, situated on the banks of the River Dordogne this is a series of aerial rope walkways around and over the river, especially suitable for adventurous children, ours thought it was wonderful and spent the whole day there! Additionally, and especially for the children are several "Pre-History" theme parks specialising in dinosaur displays.

If you have a particular interest or pastime not mentioned above please give us a ring, and we will find details for you.

NB All timings mentioned in this and subsequent pages are as timed by us, driving at moderate speeds, and should be easily achieved under normal driving conditions.