© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
© PWilliamson
Le Bugue, Perigord Noir
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.
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.
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.
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.
