The Périgord and Quercy, as the areas surrounding the Dordogne and Lot valleys are known locally, are two of the most beautiful regions of France. Fine local produce, dramatic scenery and beautiful villages and towns steeped in history combine to make an ideal destination for a short break or a longer stay.
A visit to the region with The Classic Route will have you driving through wooded valleys, skirting the banks of the rivers, snaking up the hill-sides on some of France’s most wonderful driving roads.
We’ll allow you time to explore the improbable cliff-top villages, of Rocamadour, St Cirq-Lapopie and la Roque-Gageac. Visit the fortified bastides of Domme and Monpazier and wander through the medieval streets of Sarlat-la-Caneda. Marvel at the gallo-roman villa and Byzantine cathedral of Périgeux, or wander across the fortified bridge, Pont Valentre, at Cahors.
The proud castles of Bonaguil and Castelnaud, are now happy to allow even the English to visit, although, like Pont Valentre, they were originally built to keep us out during the 100 years war. Alternatively, pay a visit to the charming chateau Montal, one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in the region.
Lovers of good food will not be disappointed as nature has been generous to the region: foie gras, truffles and cèpes (wild mushrooms), walnuts and chesnuts, and strawberries are all local fare. Local wines include the sweet white Monbazillac, ideal as an aperitif or with foie gras and the rich full-bodied reds of Cahors, which complement ideally the local speciality of magret de canard (duck breast).
The region has far more attractions than we can possibly list here. Contact us for full details.