Château de Sainte-Croix is situated between historic bastide towns which are listed as two of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (the most beautiful villages in France). The unspoilt and historic beauty of the Dordogne region in Nouvelle-Aquitaine has plenty of opportunities to explore from wine tasting in the vineyards of Bergerac to kayaking down the River Dordogne. Colourful markets abound in pretty towns, gastronomic experiences are waiting to be discovered and there are endless attractions within easy reach for young and old visitors alike.
We have put together a day’s itinerary for exploring the Dordogne for you and your guests. Here are some of our favourite things that we would recommend to do in 24 hours when visiting this extraordinary region of Southwest France. We will be here in the run up to your stay and during your time at the Château to provide support and ideas on the best places to visit in the area.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Château by the pool before heading out to explore.
Stop off at Monpazier, one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, take a stroll around the historic square, then get a coffee at one of the lovely cafes and enjoy the ambience.
Next, drive up to Beynac-et-Cazenac, one of the most impressive medieval fortified towns in the area with its amazing Château and Castle. There’s a fantastic viewpoint at the top of the hill next to the Château and plenty of great eateries, several of which have views overlooking the Dordogne river. You can even take a traditional boat trip on a “gabarre” to see the town from the water.
Then, drive along the river to La Roque-Gageac, park up here and take a walk around the town, there’s a fabulous free botanical garden grown into the rockface to explore.
For a memorable afternoon, there’s so many options to explore but here are some of our favourites:
Option 1: Domme – This small town with stunning scenic views of the valley below is perfect for a more relaxed afternoon.
Option 2: Sarlat – Offering a wide range of cafes, restaurants and shops situated in a perfectly preserved medieval town centre.
Option 3: Visit one of the 1000 Châteaux in this remarkable region. One of our favourites is the pretty Château Milandes, once home to Josephine Baker, or why not consider Château de Castelnaud for a taste of Medieval life or the Jardins de Marqueyssac with their astonishing landscaped gardens, spectacular views and even a via ferrata where you can traverse the rocky ravines if you are feeling adventurous!
Not quite ready to call it a day? Head to Beaumont-du-Périgord, a small town brimming with history and culture, for dinner in one of the fine restaurants to take in the evening ambiance.
If you are looking for excitement and adventure during your stay at the Château then here are some excellent options in the local area which are fantastic activities to incorporate into your celebration or retreat!
Canoe River – For canoe and kayak rental just 20 minutes from the Château and not far from the beautiful town of Saint-Cyprien, check out Canoe River, which is set on a lovely beach where you can go for a swim too! 25 minute drive.
Pro Sports – Another great option near Bergerac. They offer canoeing, zorbing, paintballing, archery and cycle hire. Why not incorporate a fun stag or hen experience into your stay before the big day? Or get the team together for some adrenaline filled fun during a corporate retreat? 20 minute drive.
Parc de Bournat – Take a trip back to the year 1900 at this vintage theme park near Bergerac. 30 minute drive.
Aquarium Périgord Noir – A huge aquarium with fish and retiles, ideal if you have a day of inclement weather! 30 minute drive.
Airparc Périgord – Head up high into the treetops on this aerial course through the forest. 35 minute drive.
Jacquou Parc – A fun water park open during the summer season plus rollercoaster and fairground rides. 40 minute drive.
For more activities in the area why not consider hiking, mountain biking, paddle boarding, horse riding, quad biking, visiting caves deep underground or heading to a zoo or nature reserve? It’s fair to say there’s something for everyone in the glorious Dordogne!
Check out Visit Dordogne Valley for more suggestions and links to fun things to do in the area.
Famous for fine wine and outstanding gastronomy, here are a few of our top picks to enjoy during your stay.
Château Monbazillac – No trip to the Dordogne is complete without a wine tasting and at this Château you can taste some of the best!
Dordogne Vineyard Tours – if you fancy a trip around Bergerac wine country, then allow this fantastic English-speaking team to be your guides. They are also available to come to the Château for wine tasting evenings – the ideal ice-breaker ahead of the big day!
Discover fabulous markets in the Périgord during your stay. Pick-up why not pick up some local, organic produce to cook up a feast back at the Château?
Monpazier – Thursday | Saint-Cyprien – Sunday | Sarlat – Wednesday & Saturday | Belvès – Saturday
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