Couze-et-Saint-Front, Perigord Pourpre
Sitting on the Dordogne and Couze rivers, east of Bergerac
Couze used to be a paper-making village and a number of its old mills are still in existence, using the power of the Couze river to turn the water wheel.
The attractive Moulin de la Rouzique still produces paper the old-fashioned way and houses a small museum. Nearby, you can see cave engravings dating back over 30,000 years at the Grotte de la Cavaille.
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- History & Culture in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Sights & Attractions in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Events in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Things to do in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Cycling in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Hiking in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Watersports in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Families in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Villas in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Hotels in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Campsites in Couze-et-Saint-Front
- Property For Sale in Couze-et-Saint-Front
History & Culture in Couze-et-Saint-Front
The name of Saint Front exists from the first centuries. The chapel that stands on top of a promontory over the Dordogne was dedicated to a Périgord apostle who defeated the dragon that was said to be terrorising local people. However, the name Couze will not be known until much later and we now believe that it meant "water course" or "river".
Sights & Attractions in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Although the village is not huge, there are a few attractions that are worth visiting in the area.
There are two paper mills, where you can get a tour of how this historic industry worked and even have a go yourself.
A visit to the area is not complete without venturing to the Chapelle Saint Front de Colubri, which sits atop a hill overlooking the Dordogne river. It has a fascinating history.
Sights in Couze-et-Saint-Front
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Chateau de Lanquais, Couze-et-Saint-Front
Self-titled as the "Unfinished Louvre in Périgord", this château combines medieval fortifications with an incomplete Renaissance palace.
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Moulin de la Rouzique Papermaking Mill & Museum, Couze-et-Saint-Front
In the paper-making village of Couze-et-Saint-Front, this traditional mill still makes paper by hand.
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Chapelle Saint Front de Colubri, Lalinde
Although it is believed to have dated back to the eighth century, Father Goustat wrote in 1883 that this building could date back to VIII, XI or even the fourteenth century. It has been repeatedly destroyed and rebuilt in part or in whole over the years.
Events in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Events in Dordogne
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European Heritage Days
Exceptional locations around France, including Dordogne, will be open to visit on the Journées du Patrimoine - a European wide event inspired by by France’s Journées Portes Ouvertes which started in 1984.
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Grandes Heures de Saint-Emilion
The association Les Grandes Heures of Saint-Emilion offer you high quality classical concerts held within the magnificent wine estates of Saint-Emilion.
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Ban des Vendanges, Jurade de Saint Emilion
The Autumn festival in Saint-Emilion celebrates the wine and heritage of this medieval city. The 'Jurade' are the Saint-Emilion wine brotherhood who historically had administrative rights over the town. As part of the festival they parade through the town in their traditional crimson robes, reminiscent of the all-powerful aldermen of centuries past.
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Rassemblement Européen de Montgolfieres, Rocamadour
A hot air balloon fiesta in Rocamadour in late September. This gathering of European hot air balloons forms a stunning sight against the backdrop of the pilgrimage town of Rocamadour.
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Sauternes and Barsac Chateaux open day wine tasting
At the beginning of November, the Sauternes and Barsac Châteaux opens its doors for a weekend in which more than 50 estates welcome the public to sample their wines.
Things to do in Couze-et-Saint-Front
There are several pretty walks around the area and some mountain biking trails just at the back of the neighbouring town of Lalinde. It's worth exploring this beautiful area by foot as you may well be surprised by some of the historic monuments that you come across.
Cycling in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Cycling Routes in Dordogne
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Greenway (Voie Verte) of Lalinde Canal, Lalinde
This short stretch of Voie Verte (greenway) is perfect for families looking to stretch their legs in the Dordogne countryside, without having to conquer any hills climbs.
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La Voie Verte, Perigueux
A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).
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Old Railway Greenway (Voie Verte) Route, Sarlat-la-Caneda
This Voie Verte (greenway) has been created along the track of an old and now unused railway line.
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Circular route between Ouysse & Causse, Rocamadour
Although just 25km this circular route from Rocamadour does cross some challenging terrain. Partly on river path and some parts on road, you will need to have some experience of cycling to enjoy this route fully.
Hiking in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Walking Routes in Dordogne
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Font-Blanque Loop, Lalinde
Following part of the GR6 route through the Dordogne this walk takes you from Lalinde on a circular route through the surrounding countryside.
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La Voie Verte, Perigueux
A 23km trail that follows the Isle river through the Perigord countryside from Trelissac (Charrieras) to Marsac (La Roche).
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A Short Walk up Mont Saint Cyr, Cahors
With stunning views over the Lot river and the town of Cahors this walk is worth it just to enjoy the views.
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Chemin de Halage
Part of a long distance towpath, there is an interesting section cut out of the rocky cliff face between Bouziès and Saint-Cirq Lapopie which was used to drag barges along the river Lot. It's about five kilometres between the two villages and is a stunning section of the river.
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Cirque d'Autoire circular route, Autoire
This walk is wonderful and relaxing way to explore the valley of Autoire and the horseshoe shaped cliff band that guards it to the south-west.
Watersports in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Watersports in Dordogne
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Canoes Rivieres Loisirs, Limeuil
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
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
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
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
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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Perigord Adventure & Loisirs Canoe, Beynac-et-Cazenac
Enjoy a relaxing day close to nature as you canoe along the river and explore the waterways of this UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
Families in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Villas in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Villas in Couze-et-Saint-Front
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Le Mas Villa
Renovated 16th century farmhouse in Dordogne.
Hotels in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Hotels in Couze-et-Saint-Front
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La Chartreuse du Bignac Hotel, St Nexans
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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Le Vieux Logis Hotel, Tremolat
This luxury hotel has large rustic-style bedrooms, a magnificent park, a sunny terrace and an outside pool made from local yellow stones typical of the Périgord region. The estate includes a manor house, tenanted farm, outbuildings, a tobacco drying room which houses a lounge and smoking room, and two restaurant dining rooms. This Relais & Châteaux hotel is an excellent choice with great food and superb surroundings.
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La Metairie Hotel, Mauzac
Set in a picturesque 19th Century house, the hotel offers the perfect release from the stresses and strains of day to day life. The exposed beams add real character the building and the extensive grounds offer a great opportunity to explore or find a peaceful spot to relax.
Price: €1,365
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Chateau les Merles, Mouleydier
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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Maison Porte del Marty B&B, Lalinde
A king-size bedroom with French windows that open up to a private balcony and views of the Dordogne river. There are few things more appealing on a holiday break.
Price: €770
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Chateau de Lanquais, Lanquis
Self-titled as the "Unfinished Louvre in Périgord", this château combines medieval fortifications with an incomplete Renaissance palace.
Campsites in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Property For Sale in Couze-et-Saint-Front
Property for Sale in Couze-et-Saint-Front
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Stone House, Couze-et-Saint-Front - Ref.2713
Typical stone house Perigord style dating from 1807 completely renovated.
Price: €171,200