The largest town in the area, Bergerac, still retains a quaint old feel, with a change in pace in the summer months.
Bergerac, Perigord Pourpre
On the banks of the River Dordogne nearly 120km east of the city of Bordeaux
Nestled on the banks of the Dordogne river, which enabled its growth back in the 11th and 12th centuries when it supported the region's wine export business.
In the 16th century it was a focus of the Wars of Religion, which eventually resulted in a peace treaty being signed in Bergerac.
Today its attractive old town, with cobbled streets and boutiquey shops, bring in the tourists from its international airport. In fact tourism and wine making are now the town's biggest and most successful industries.
Events in Bergerac
Events in Bergerac
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Beaujolais Nouveau
The new Beaujolais has arrived!
The third Thursday in November is when this year's Beaujolais hits the shelves and is cause for celebration across France.
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Fête de la Musique
Music festival celebrated across France on the summer solstice
The Fête de la Musique is a celebration that takes place every summer solstice on 21 June in cities, towns and villages across France.
History & Culture in Bergerac
Originating from the 11th century when a castle was built on the site on the banks of the Dordogne river, the area quickly grew up around the castle and the town became a popular stop over for travellers, pilgrims and traders.
The area has always been a popular hub for wine production but later was also known for tobacco and earthernware. The appearance of the 'vine louse' was a turning point in the local economy, this vine disease from America devastated the Bergerac vineyards in 1880, forcing the wine makers to replant on better plots. The graft of a French vine stock to American roots impervious to the parasite relaunched the wine making activity.
The town's name at least is perhaps better known from the play and film 'Cyrano de Bergerac', where French favourite, actor Gerard Depardieu plays the main character Cyrano. The story of Cyrano de Bergerac is actually based on a real person, who was a poet and duelist from the 17th century. As the story goes, he is in love with Roxanne, but due to his appearance he is afraid to admit it. When a cadet, Christian, enlists Cyrano's help to woo Roxanne by writing love letters for him, Roxanne quickly falls for Christian without knowing that she is actually falling for the words written by Cyrano. She marries Christian, and Cyrano continues to keep the other man's secret, even after tragedy strikes.
However, the actual Cyrano never lived in Bergerac, there was no Roxanne.
Sights & Attractions in Bergerac
The area of Bergerac offers some of the finest wines due to the excellent soil drainage and proximity to the Dordogne river. There are numerous châteaux and vineyards to be visited in this part of the Dordogne.
In addition to the vineyards and estates there are also plenty of other châteaux and gardens to be visited that offer fun for all the family. Within the city of Bergerac itself you will find several museums, including the Musée du Vin which gives you a good insight into the history of the region.
The most recent statue of the infamous character 'Cyrano de Bergerac' is situated in the square outside the Eglise Saint-Jacques, which has plenty of cafés and is a pleasant place to stop for lunch, coffee or a glass of the local Bergerac wine.
Sights in Bergerac
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Maison des Vins (Wine Centre) & Cloitre des Recollets, Bergerac
The wine centre is the place to help you discover the vineyards of Bergerac
The Wine Centre (Maison des Vins) is right in the historic heart of Bergerac, in the Récollets Cloisters, a magnificent group of monastic buildings from the 17th-century.
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Musee du Vin & de la Batellerie, Bergerac
Bergerac history museum also known as the Musee de la Ville
The creation of Wine and River Transport Museum (Musee du Vin & de la Batellerie ) tells us about the heritage and history of the Dordogne River that runs through the heart of Bergerac.
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Musee du Tabac, Bergerac
History of tobacco in the Bergerac region
Housed in the Maison Peyrarède, the tobacco museum in Bergerac tells the 4,000 year history of tobacco growth in the region when it used to be a major crop.
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Eglise Notre-Dame, Bergerac
Extensive 19th century church in Bergerac
This 19th century church was constructed when the expanding city required somewhere larger to house the congregation.
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Eglise St Jacques Church, Bergerac
13th-century Romanesque church in centre of Bergerac's old town
The Saint-Jacques church sits at the top of a lovely square overlooking the historic centre of the city.
Dining in Bergerac
Although better known for its viticulture than its gastronomy there are plenty of places to find a good meal in Bergerac and in the surrounding countryside. Each meal should of course be complimented by an excellent Bergerac wine!
Restaurants in Bergerac
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Tour des Vents Restaurant, Monbazillac
Incredible views from this fine restaurant
At the top of the hills of Monbazillac, surrounded by vineyards, the shady terraces and dining rooms of this restaurant offer an unforgettable panoramic view. The chef, Marie Rougier, produces a fine dining menu from seasonal products.
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La Chartreuse du Bignac Restaurant, St Nexans
Gourmet restaurant with indoor & terrace dining located in an rural 17th century building
The dining rooms allow for views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. Drinks can also be enjoyed in the small library or among the chestnut trees.
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Les Merles Restaurant, Mouleydier
Contemporary restaurant set in a 17th century Château
The restaurant boasts an innovative menu with a focus on fine local fare and seemless service. The very word Les Merles stands for honesty and delightfulness, which is reflected throughout the dining experience.
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Chez Alain Restaurant, Issigeac
Local and seasonal menus at this lovely spot in Issigeac.
Chez Alain is located in the beautiful medieval village of Issigeac, known for its colourful market on Sunday. The chef, Sébastien, offers a refined and colourful cuisine using fresh and seasonal produce. The stone walls and old beams give off a warm atmosphere inside and it has a pretty outdoor area.
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La Metairie Restaurant, Mauzac
A discovery of the Perigord & its world famous cuisine
Set in the hotel's 19th Century building, the dining room has wonderful stone walls and comforting, traditional table settings. Weather permitting, you may be able to relish your meal outside on the flowery terrace overlooking the lush garden or even down by the pool.
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Le Vieux Logis Restaurant, Tremolat
Michelin star perfection in former tabacco drying house
Stone walls, high ceilings, charming surroundings and elegant table settings lure you into the restaurant, with precise modern day interpretations of classic regional food, made from the finest local produce.
Things to do in Bergerac
There are plenty of family activities in and around Bergerac, from mini boating adventures to letting fairies guide you round a maze. Medieval games are also popular and you will find these at some of the more popular châteaux in the area.
A trip on the Petit train de Bergerac gets you orientated in this small town and takes you past most of the main attractions so that you know where to head when you step off the train. A fun ride for kids, with an audio guide that gives you an outline of the rich history.
Things To Do in Bergerac
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Bergerac Karting, Bergerac
Outdoor karting circuit on the south west of the city of Bergerac
In the heart of the 'Purple Perigord' you can share and enjoy the passion of owner Jean-Pierre who has been part of competitive karting since the late 1980's.
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Traditional Barge Boat Trip, Bergerac
20+ person traditional boat with commentary
A delightful trip along the river that runs through the heart of Bergerac on a traditional wooden barge.
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Le Petit Train de Bergerac
Guided sightseeing of Bergerac in the little train
Discover the historic town of Bergerac during this 30-35 minute tour of the towns most famous sights and features.
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Port Miniature, Bergerac
Become a captain for the day in the miniature port of Bergerac
Take this opportunity to drive the electric replicas of real boats: tug, trawler, ferry, steam Mississippi barges...The small port has everything for those who want to go out there and play sailor "for real".
Watersports in Bergerac
Watersports in Bergerac
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Canoes Rivieres Loisirs, Limeuil
Accessible to all, you can travel the region at your own pace
With family, in a group, with friends and at any age, you can explore at your own pace two of the most beautiful rivers of Périgord.
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CANOEric, Le Bugue
Canoeing and kayaking down the Vereze valley in the heart of the Dordogne
Easy canoeing for everybody. You can navigate with family or friends in peace. You’ll be given a solid equipment, stable canoes and buoyancy aids.
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AVCK (Animation Vezere Canoe Kayak), Les Eyzies-de-Tayac
Explore the Vézère valley from the peace & tranquillity of the river
This area provides water-sports for all ages. Renowned for its architectural heritage and sites of natural beauty, you will find that paddling is a great way to relax and have fun whilst enjoying the scenery.
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Canoe Vacances, La Roque-Gageac
Canoe holidays on the river Dordogne
Enjoy a single or multi-day trip down the river Dordogne to town such as Beynac, Castelnaud, Montfort and Fayac.
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Canoe Dordogne
Enjoy a gentle kayak down the river Dordogne from La Roque Gageac
Hire a canoe or kayak from this company and you can enjoy a gentle river cruise and the chance to explore the wonderful Dordogne river and its banks.
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Brantome Canoe, Brantome
Discover the Dronne river by canoe, paddle board or try something completely different!
Not only can you take a relaxing journey down the Dronne river in a canoe but you can try your hand at stand up paddle boarding or take to the cliffs and trees for some adventure above ground.
Where to stay in Bergerac
Although this is a relatively small you'll find a decent selection of hotels to suit all budgets.
Holiday Rentals in Bergerac
Holiday Rentals in Bergerac
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Le Manoir Du Vignoble Villa, Pomport
5 bedroom Villa in Dordogne. Sleeps 14
A beautiful property owned by a local viticulturist whose vineyards form part of the grounds around the house.
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La Castille Villa, Castillonnès
5 bedroom Villa in Dordogne. Sleeps 8
Enjoy French country living at La Castille, a beautifully restored 18th Century stone bastide which offers charm and style in abundance, in an area renowned for delicious food and wine. La Castille is the sister property to La Perigourdine and La Petite Maison.
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La Petite Maison Villa, Castillonnès
2 bedroom Villa in Dordogne. Sleeps 5
Decorated in chic but subtle style this pretty cream coloured stone cottage is the epitome of a charming rural retreat yet is within walking distance of the impressive bastide of Castillonnes.
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Le Mas Villa
5 bedroom villa in Dordogne. Sleeps 10
Renovated 16th century farmhouse in Dordogne.
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Le Mazet Villa
1 bedroom villa in Dordogne, sleeps 2
Charming renovated detached cottage in the heart of Dordogne.
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Le Mas & Le Mazet Villas
6 bedroom villa in Dordogne. Sleeps 12
A combination of two renovated villas in the heart of Dordogne.
Hotels in Bergerac
Hotels in Bergerac
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La Chartreuse du Bignac Hotel, St Nexans
4 star rural hotel & vineyard in a renovated 17th century estate
The property is set a short distance from the centre of Bergerac, with 360 degree views of the surrounding vineyards. There are 12 hectares of grounds with 12 uniquely decorated rooms to choose from.
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Chateau Mont d'Onel B&B, Couze-et-Saint-Front
Hillside 13th Century Chateau
Enjoying special views over the river and town and just a 5 minutes walk from Couze-et-Saint-Front, the Chateau is the ideal base from which you can explore. The luxurious, high quality feel and elegance oozes comfort and class of which you are bound to relish.
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Chateau des Vigiers, Monestier
Vintage Hotel, Golf Course and Country Club
Dating back to 1597, Château des Vigiers is an internationally-renowned Hotel, Golf & Country Club. There are rooms in the historic château building, as well as in the Périgord style "Dépendances" building and in the eco-friendly Relais which takes the style of the regional tobacco barns.
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Chateau les Merles, Mouleydier
Contemporary interior to this impressive château
This château has been now transformed into a contemporary, stylish and modern comfort hotel with 12 rooms, two suites and a spacious apartment. The contrast with the original architecture and the modern touch makes Les Merles a luxurious, charming and attractive hotel whilst still retaining an intimate, friendly and cosy atmosphere. Within the grounds, there is a spa, golf course, tennis courts and a swimming pool.
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Chateau de Lanquais, Lanquis
Unfinished Louvre in Périgord
Self-titled as the "Unfinished Louvre in Périgord", this château combines medieval fortifications with an incomplete Renaissance palace.
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Hotel de Bordeaux Hotel, Bergerac
Comfortable hotel a stones throw from the centre of Bergerac
A relaxed environment which can be enjoyed in the public areas, the quaint shaded garden or the privacy of your own room. It lies a short distance from the old town of Bergerac and the historical delights and festivities that the Perigòrd have to offer.
How to get to Bergerac
Situated on the banks of the Dordogne river, just 18km from the Dordogne / Gironde border, Bergerac is the first main city that you will reach if you are travelling into the Dordogne region from Bordeaux.
Property For Sale in Bergerac
Property for Sale in Bergerac
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Tower Property For Sale, Bergerac
A beautifully maintained 5 bedroom stone property
Built in 1982, this large family home of 280m2, with it's own Tower, 5 Double Bedrooms, 2 Bathrooms, Lounge, 2 Reception Areas, Kitchen, Conservatory and ornate gardens offers no end of possibilities.
Tower Property For Sale, Bergerac
€483,000



















































