Leisure and Interest
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.
This Page was updated on 29/01/08