Le Bugue, Perigord Noir
Relaxed market town situated in the heart of one of the most visited areas in France
The relaxed town of Le Bugue sits on the river Vézère where it's joined by the Doux. A more tranquil base for exploring the region, it has some pretty, narrow streets and a bustling market twice a week.
This town is a good base if you want to explore the Perigord Noir area. Not only because it's close to some of the most popular and interesting pre-historic sights, but also because you can also escape all the 'pre-history' sightseeing for a while - you can sometimes have too much of a good thing.
There are plenty of other attractions in this pretty market town, not least the Tuesday market itself, but also the popular Aquarium du Perigord Noir, several theme parks and some great canoeing on the river.
The town itself sits on the banks of the river and is very pretty in its own right, with narrow winding streets and some beautiful traditional architecture to be seen.
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History & Culture in Le Bugue
Inhabited since prehistoric times, Le Bugue enjoyed a period of prosperity until 1154, when the province of Périgord came under English control. The town was often a source of disputes between British troops and those of the King of France, and therefore it suffered greatly.
Maintaining itself as a quiet commercial town it was only in the 19th century with the arrival of the railway line that ran between Perigueux and Agen, and the construction of the bridge, that the town became better known.
Sights & Attractions in Le Bugue
There are a number of prehistoric sites in and around Le Bugue which are open to the public.
The Grotte de Bara Bahau is on the north west edge of Le Bugue and contains a number of engravings made by prehistoric man. Also on the edge of town is the Gouffre de Proumeyssac with its cavernous interior and wonderful collection of stalactites.
About 4km away in Saint-Cirq you'll find the Grotte de Sorcier, beautiful on both the inside and the outside as the pretty village of Saint-Cirq seems to escape from the cliff face.
If you decided to venture further into the town of Le Bugue itself then you will find that these streets are often very quiet and your only companions may be the neighbourhood cats.
The church in le Bugue is rather unusual in that it looks quite British, rather than the usual chapels, cathedrals and abbeys that we're used to seeing in this part of France.
Sights in Le Bugue
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Gouffre de Proumeyssac, Le Bugue
The largest cave in the Périgord region, close to the pretty and tranquil town of Le Bugue. Proumeyssac has a vast subterranean grotto reaching 40 metres in height.
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Grotte Bara-Bahau, Le Bugue
The southernmost of all the caves of the Vézère valley, Bara-Bahau was classified as an historic monument in 1961.
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Chapelle Saint-Martin, Limeuil
The church at Saint-Martin is distinguished for its original frescoes, which can be foudn inside, and its dedication stone.
Events in Le Bugue
One of the most important dates in the town's history was in November 1319, when the King of France, ordered by deed that the market be permanently held on a Tuesday. This is still the case today, and the market of Le Bugue has become one of the best in the region.
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 Le Bugue
A great family destination due to the number of child-friendly activities that are available right on your doorstep, Le Bugue offers theme parks, open-air museums, animal parks and canoeing on the gentle Vézère river.
If you do visit Le Bugue on market day then be prepared for the crowds. It's only a small market but people flock to it - especially the locals. The downside of this market is that it sits right on the main intersection through town. But cross the river here and you have plenty of parking and a calm environment, perfect for walking along the river banks or having a picnic.
Things To Do in Le Bugue
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Aquarium du Perigord Noir, Le Bugue
A great place for a family day out and to escape the pre-historic world of the Dordogne...instead, enjoy the family atmosphere and displays of this fresh water aquarium.
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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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Le Bournat - Living History Museum, Le Bugue
A living museum that offers much more than your ordinary museum or theme park. A great day out that will take you and your family back in time to an era long ago.
