Skip to main content

Cadouin, Perigord Noir

Pretty medieval village featuring a 12th Century abbey in the east of the Dordogne

Location
Le Buisson de Cadouin
Featured in
Towns & Villages
Updated

A small but beautiful medieval village built around the Cadoudin Abbey, constructed by the Cistercians in the 12th century. It's situated very close to the neighbouring larger town of Le Buisson de Cadouin

Situated close to the Dordogne river within the commune of Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin, which is home to a major rail junction with connections to Bordeaux, Sarlat-la-Caneda, Agen and Perigueux.

The impressive and well-preserved abbey in Cadouin is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage locations, is on the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route and is one of the best examples in the region. Surrounded by forests which offer lots of outdoor activity options, this attractive village is full of cute streets with shops selling locally-produced gifts and pottery.

Jump to

  1. History & Culture in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  2. Sights & Attractions in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  3. Events in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  4. Things to do in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  5. Cycling in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  6. Hiking in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  7. Watersports in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  8. Families in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  9. Villas in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  10. Hotels in Le Buisson de Cadouin
  11. Campsites in Le Buisson de Cadouin

History & Culture in Le Buisson de Cadouin

The commune of Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin, in which the village of Cadouin resides, came to fruition over the last century as the various neighbouring communes changed names and merged together, finally forming the current commune in 1974.

Cadouin's abbey was founded in 1115 by Robert d'Arbrissel and then taken over by Cistercian monks in 1119. It became a pilgrim sight due to a piece of cloth that is said to have been a part of Christ's shroud. Originating from Egypt in the 11th century the shroud itself is on display in the abbey. Naturally the abbey became part of the pilgrim route to Saint Jacques de Compostelle in Spain. Eleanor of Aquitaine and Richard the Lionheart were amongst some of the pilgrims to visit the abbey.

Sights & Attractions in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Naturally the abbey is of particular historical interest here, but it's also a beautiful building and worth exploring to get a feel for the medieval life that once existed here.

If you're in the area then a visit to the nearby caves of Les Grottes de Maxange is a must. A tranquil underground experience in a cave that was only recently discovered. There are sure to be more findings and explorations of these caves in years to come.

Sights in Le Buisson de Cadouin

See all Sights in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Events in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Cadouin hosts a medieval festival every year in August. This is a great time to visit the town and many people will be dressed in medieval costume...maybe you could join them.

Events in Dordogne

See all Events in Dordogne

Things to do in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Things To Do in Le Buisson de Cadouin

See all Things To Do in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Cycling in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Cycling Routes in Dordogne

See all Cycling Routes in Dordogne

Hiking in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Walking Routes in Dordogne

See all Walking Routes in Dordogne

Watersports in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Watersports in Le Buisson de Cadouin

See all Watersports in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Villas in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Villas in Le Buisson de Cadouin

See all Villas in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Hotels in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Hotels in Le Buisson de Cadouin

See all Hotels in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Campsites in Le Buisson de Cadouin

Latest News & Reviews

See allLatest News & Reviews
Gabares & canoes at La Roque Gageac
a chateau in the sunshine

Upcoming Events

See allUpcoming Events
Rassemblement Europeen de Montgolfieres
Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion, Saint Emilion
Wine Chateaux Open Visitis (Portes Ouvertes)