DORDOGNE OR PÉRIGORD?
The Dordogne is one of France's most beautiful regions and attracts thousands of visitors every year.
This is not without reason: with its imposing castles, breathtaking nature, impressive prehistoric
finds and medieval villages, it is a place everyone should discover.
Sometimes the terms Dordogne and Périgord are used interchangeably, but they have slightly different
meanings. Dordogne is the department, while Périgord refers to an ancient province covering almost
the same area. Périgord was inhabited by the Petrocorians in the time of the Gauls.
Today, the region is still divided into four parts:
Périgord Vert: Green valleys, extensive forests and agricultural land.
Périgord Blanc: Limestone plateaus and quarries.
Périgord Pourpre: The wine region, with vineyards turning beautiful colours in autumn.
Périgord Noir: The region famous for its dark forests of oak and chestnut trees, valleys with meadows, cereal and maize fields and walnut groves.
Our project is located in the heart of the Périgord Noir, in the valley of the Dordogne.
BLACK PÉRIGORD
The Périgord Noir is the best known and most visited part of the Dordogne. It is known for its
impressive nature and rich (intangible) heritage. The name 'Périgord Noir' refers to the vast
forests of holm oaks that cover the region, but also to the famous black truffles that grow here.
Extraordinary nature
The entire Dordogne Valley has been classified by UNESCO as a Human and Biosphere Reserve
and World Heritage Site. It is a protected natural area where you can discover the
richness of its natural heritage. Here you will also find impressive caves and underground rivers,
such as the famous Gouffre de Padirac, where you can take a boat trip through an
underground river.
France's most beautiful villages
The Périgord Noir is home to some of France's most beautiful villages, such as:
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
La Roque-Gageac
Domme
Beynac-et-Cazenac
Rocamadour
Saint-Cirq Lapopie
Belvès
Monpazier
Rich history
The Dordogne Valley is also known as the 'Valley of Castles'. Everywhere along the river you can
see castles dating back to the Middle Ages. A kayaking trip on the Dordogne is a great way to
discover these castles and charming villages. Another special experience is ballooning,
for example with Montgolfières du Périgord, to see the beauty of the region from the air.
Prehistoric finds
The region is famous for its prehistoric caves, including the world-famous Lascaux and Pech-Merle,
which give you a glimpse into the lives of early humans. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site,
these caves are a must-see for any visitor to the Périgord.
PÉRIGORD CULINARY?
The Périgord is known for its delicious local produce and culinary traditions.
Some of the region's specialities include:
Noix du Périgord (walnuts, AOP)
Vins de Bergerac (wines, AOP)
Périgord Vin de Domme (wines, IGP)
Agneau du Périgord (lamb meat, IGP)
Foie-Gras du Sud-Ouest (foie-gras, IGP)
Fraise du Périgord (strawberries, IGP)
Truffe Noire du Périgord (truffle, IGP)
Pruneau d'Agen (dried plums, IGP)
Who has not heard of it?
The rich gastronomy of the Périgord offers a unique taste experience for every gourmet!
CONTACT
Questions? Send a message!
727 Route de la Vieille Eglise
24250 Saint-Aubin-de-Nabirat
44°44'22.8"N 1°16'39.8"E
Phone: +0032 479 75 20 16
Email: clauddumoine@gmail.com
