Central Dordogne
Discover the top destinations in central Dordogne
Contrary to popular belief the area is in fact not named after the wonderful delicacy, the black truffle! Instead it is named Perigord Noir due to the high concentration of very dark oak trees.
As with much of the rest of the Dordogne, the Perigord Noir area is filled with famous chateaux, market towns, ancient villages and some of the most popular tourist destinations in France. The town of Sarlat is known as the 'medieval capital of the Dordogne' and is certainly one of the most charming old walled towns in France. Situated in the heart of the the Perigord Noir Sarlat is undoubtably one of the highlights of a trip here, however the surrounding towns of Belves, Beynac, Domme, and Montignac are also spectacular destinations.
In the south eastern part of the department, Le Périgord Noir joins to the International Centre of Prehistory in the Vézère Valley. The Vézère contains some of the richest European Prehistoric sites, including five that are classified by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Lascaux is possibly the best known of these 'caves', but you should also take the chance to visit Font de Gaume and Cap Blanc. The town of Eyzies may have rightly taken its place as world capital of prehistory partly due to the significant number of sites it hosts, alongside the national museum and its interpretive centre. A little less touristy than the Dordogne valley, the Vézère Valley offers peace and tranquillity. It is ideal for family outings, walks and outdoor activities. The Dordogne river continues its path through this valley, between the majestic limestone cliffs and green oak forests.
Belvès, Perigord Noir
Sitting proud on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Nauze valley, this fortified town boasts seven bell towers and an 11th century keep that is still standing, despite numerous invasions and wars.
Beynac-et-Cazenac, Perigord Noir
The village of Beynac-et-Cazenac is thought to date back to the 12th century when its imposing cliff top château was constructed.
Domme, Perigord Noir
This bastide town, sitting high above the Dordogne river, has an impressive number of its 13th century fortifications still intact, including three of its original gates.
La Roque-Gageac, Perigord Noir
It's hard to imagine a nicer village than La Roque-Gageac, with its huge limestone cliffs that tower behind the Renaissance-style houses built in creamy stone with burnt red roofs.
Les-Eyzies-de-Tayac, Perigord Noir
The town and the surrounding prehistoric sites have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nearly 150 sites have already been discovered and contain significant finds dating back as far as the Middle Stone Age - about 300,000 to 40,000 years ago.
Montignac, Perigord Noir
The pretty old town of Montignac serves as a good base for visiting the nearby prehistoric caves.
Sarlat-la-Canéda, Perigord Noir
Standing out as one of the most charming towns in the region, this medieval dwelling remains much as it was when it was built in the 14th century.
