Périgueux, the area’s administrative centre, is located in central Dordogne. The town boasts a legacy of Gallo-Roman, medieval and Renaissance history.
Périgueux: “ville d’histoire”
Among its remarkable sites, explore the majestic Saint-Front cathedral, listed as World Heritage with UNESCO. It is built in the White Périgord’s chalky stones, and its cupolas evoke the ruins of the ancient city, which also include the Vésone tower and amphitheatre. Discover the vestiges of a vast Gallo-Roman home at the Vesunna museum. You’ll get the best view over the old town from Mataguerre tower, complete with an orientation panel on the top floor.
Enjoy a picnic or just relax in one of the many reputed parks and gardens of Périgueux.
The best place to meet local farmers and discover the region’s specialities is the market, held every Wednesday and Saturday morning.
Foie Gras
The gourmet renown of the Périgord is partly due to its legacy of foie gras. Near Montpon-Ménestérol and the Isle Valley, you’ll have the opportunity to meet authentic local farmers, speak with them, and discover their incredible products, which include foie gras, duck breast and duck confit. Feel free to inquire with us, since we can recommend the best places to purchase fine foods and the most reputable restaurants.
Walnut oil
In Neuvic sur l’Isle, Le Moulin de la Veyssière is one of the last operational water mills in Dordogne. Here, premium walnut and hazelnut oils are extracted in the traditional Périgord way.
The presses are open to the public on Friday afternoons in July and August.
Cheeses
Cheese aficionados are welcome at Echourgnac Abbey, where Trappe d’Echourgnac cheese is made. The nuns sell their wares alongside the goat’s cheeses made by the monks of the Saint Jean-Baptiste Priory, as well as jams and fruit pastes.
At the Wednesday market in Montpon, we recommend a trip to Biquette’s stand, where you’ll find Le Pizou goat’s cheeses.
