Places to Explore
Aubeterre sur Dronne
25.5 km - 28 mins drive
Classed as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, Aubeterre-sur-Dronne is a picturesque village with a truly extraordinary secret: a vast monolithic church carved entirely from the rock. This subterranean marvel is best experienced from within, and guided audio tours (available in several languages) reveal its fascinating history and scale, it’s unlike anything else in the region.
The village itself is arranged around a charming central square lined with boutique shops, cafés, and restaurants, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Don’t stop at the square wander the surrounding lanes to discover a second historic church and hidden local businesses. Down the hill, you’ll find a sandy river beach, ideal for swimming or simply relaxing by the water on a warm day.
Brantôme
33.0 km - 35 mins drive
One of the most visited towns in the region, Brantôme is beloved for its beauty and rich history. Set against a stunning riverside backdrop, with its magnificent abbey at the heart, it's the perfect place to wander cobbled streets, browse local shops, or sit at a café and watch the world drift by. The abbey’s church belfry, dramatically built into the rock, is believed to be the oldest in France, dating back to the 11th century.
Insider tip: Behind the abbey lie ancient caves, some dating to the 8th century. One cave holds a rare 15th-century carving of the Last Judgement a fascinating and unexpected find. On Tuesdays, you’ll find a local producers’ market, while Fridays bring a larger, bustling market to town. Brantôme also hosts grand brocantes in the park throughout the year perfect for a leisurely treasure hunt.
There are several excellent restaurants along the river, where you might spot ducks and even otters gliding past as you dine. Just a short drive away in Champagnac-de-Belair, the renowned Le Moulin du Roc, Michelin-starred restaurant, offers a truly magical riverside experience. Be sure to book ahead!
Périgueux
39.9 km - 46 mins drive
Périgueux is a stunning city that blends rich history with vibrant modern life. Its heart is a maze of medieval cobbled streets, where elegant architecture frames lively squares filled with cafés, boutiques, and restaurants offering everything from local delicacies to international flavours. The cathedral, a striking focal point of the city, is especially magical when viewed from across the river and even more so when it's lit up at night.
Don’t miss the bustling Saturday market, a feast for the senses, and if you're visiting in winter, the Christmas markets fill the city with festive charm and local treats. For modern shopping, two contemporary centres just outside the historic centre offer a different kind of retail therapy. And whatever the season, make time for the ice cream, truly some of the best you’ll ever taste!
Sarlat-la-Canéda
122 km - 1h41 drive
Sarlat is one of the Dordogne’s most iconic towns, known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, honey-coloured stone buildings, and bustling market atmosphere. Wandering its narrow, winding streets feels like stepping into a living postcard, with hidden courtyards, historic mansions, and lively squares around every corner.
The town is especially famous for its weekly market (Wednesdays and Saturdays), one of the best in the region, where local producers sell everything from foie gras and truffles to fresh cheeses and handmade crafts. Sarlat truly comes alive in the summer months, with street performers, open-air concerts, and night markets adding to the festive, almost theatrical atmosphere. In the evenings, soft lighting bathes the buildings in a golden glow, perfect for a romantic stroll or a long dinner on a terrace.
Whether you're drawn by history, gastronomy, or just the sheer beauty of it all, Sarlat is a must-visit that captures the very essence of the Périgord Noir.
Bergerac
61.8 km - 58 mins drive
Tucked along the serene banks of the Dordogne River, Bergerac is a town that blends the charm of medieval France with the earthy elegance of wine country. Its timber-framed houses and quiet squares echo the rhythms of a slower time, while nearby vineyards produce some of the region’s most beloved wines, particularly the sweet Monbazillac. Though famously associated with Cyrano de Bergerac, more myth than man, the town wears its literary ties with a wink, offering statues and stories amid cobbled lanes. With a gentle warmth and a distinctly Périgord character, Bergerac invites visitors to linger, sip, and savor.
Verteillac
7.3 km - 10 mins drive
Nestled in the heart of the Dordogne, Verteillac is a lively and characterful village that blends rural tranquillity with a warm community spirit. You’ll find a handful of welcoming cafés, restaurants, and small shops that make it a lovely place to wander and relax. On the first Sunday of every month, Verteillac truly comes alive with its famous brocante (antique market), one of the largest in the region attracting visitors and treasure-hunters from near and far. During the summer, the village hosts a variety of live music events and open-air concerts, creating a festive, friendly atmosphere where everyone is invited to join in. Whether you're browsing for antiques, enjoying a glass of wine, or simply soaking up the local life, Verteillac offers a genuine taste of Dordogne charm.
Ribérac
10.4 km - 13 mins drive
Wander around to discover a variety of small shops, café/bars, and restaurants tucked into the quiet streets and sunlit squares. From artisan bakeries to antique boutiques. On Fridays throughout the year, Ribérac hosts the biggest market in the area. A lively, sprawling affair where local producers sell everything from fresh cheeses and seasonal fruit to handmade crafts and clothing. It’s the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere. For those keen to explore further, the Office de Tourisme has plenty of helpful information, maps, and friendly advice.
Le Grand Étang de la Jemaye
25.3 km - 29 mins drive
Just a short drive from Saint-Astier, the Grand Étang de la Jemaye is a beautiful natural lake nestled within a protected forest. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing family day out, whether you're in the mood for swimming, trying your hand at water sports, walking the nature trails, or simply lounging by the shimmering blue waters with a picnic.
This is a Departmental Sensitive Natural Area, thoughtfully renovated to protect its unique ecosystem while making it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. There's a designated lifeguarded swimming area, shaded picnic spots, a playground for little ones, and even a few small cafés and snack stalls during the summer months. Whether you're looking for active adventure or peaceful rest, Jemaye offers a slice of nature at its best, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for all ages.
https://www.dordogne.fr/que-faire-en-dordogne/les-incontournables/grand-