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| Free Dordogne Valley Holiday Guide |
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| DORDOGNE VALLEY LOCAL HISTORY |
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The history of the area is of violence and turbulence. In the 13th and 14th centuries the English and the French fought for control of Southwest France. In an attempt to strengthen their hold on their territories both sides built numerous fortified towns in the disputed areas of around the Dordogne River. These towns were called Bastides and the locals who built and lived in them were allowed a certain amount of self-government and other incentives.
In 1594 and 1637 the town of Montpazier was the centre of peasant insurgence activated as a result of the terrible conditions left following the end of the Wars of Religion. On both occasions the rebellions were violently suppressed.
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Beaumont - 17km north of Villereal. This village was founded by Edward 1 of England in the thirteenth -century. The church, Eglise St-Front, was constructed for military and religious reasons as a defence in times of war, which is why it has four hulking tower’s on each corners and a well inside.
Abbaye de Cadouin - This 12th century Cistercian abbey can be found 6km south of LE BUISSON on the Dordogne River. The attractions here include a piece of cloth which for hundreds of years was thought to be a part of Christ's shroud, until in 1935 it was proved to be an 11th century Arabic artefact. However the most important exhibit is now the beautiful but seriously damaged cloister. Next to the Abbey you will find an interesting Romanesque church with an austere front and a wooden belfry
Chateau de Biron - Eight kilometres south of Monpazier. Construction work on this Chateau was started in the 11th century and the building gradually evolved over the centuries. The guided tour is only taken in French but if you get hold of a written English translation you can view the building at leisure. Apart form the actual building its worth walking round the grounds as these contain a restored Renaissance chapel and a guardhouse which have fabulous views over the village below.
Monpazier – This town was founded in 1284 by the English King, Edward I, who was also had the title of Duke of Aquitaine. It is an example of an almost completely preserved bastides, which were fortified towns, built in the areas disputed by England and France in the 12th century. This attractive and peaceful village has a turbulent and violent history at the hands of various protagonists.
Monflanquin - Founded in 1256, this village is a fine example of a wonderfully preserved bastide. It is based on top of a hill and the views of the surrounding countryside are excellent. The Place des Arcades is a lovely square with interesting Gothic houses and lots of trees providing much needed shade. The village church was fortified against attackers and it is well worth a visit.
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Hotel Le Home - Belves. Situated on the through road in the village, the restaurant here provides good wholesome food at moderate prices.
Hotel Beaumontoi - Rue Romie, Beaumont. Well-cooked traditional Perigord dishes are served in the restaurant of this hotel.
The Auberge du Chateau – Close to the market hall in Biron. You can get a good-value lunch at this delightful restaurant.
Hotel de France – 21 Rue St-Jacques, Monpazier. This hotel has a good restaurant where regional are prepared with care and using locally produced ingredients.
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| Auberge de La Salvetat - by Frances Butler from France - 2006-08-02 | | Auberge de La Salvetat is a beautiful place to eat. Glorious views and food. Close to Cadouin in the Perigord Noir |
| Auberge de La Salvetat - by Rose Cope from United States - 2008-03-31 | | What a secret jewel in the Dordogne! We ate at the Auberge de La Salvetat, Cadouin, Perigord, Dordogne as everyone had left such a positive comment in the gite where we were staying. We were not disappointed! A delightful restaurant, friendly service and genuine home prepared seasonal dishes with a great choice - even vegetarian options for my husband. The restaurant is charming with a log fire. We'll be back to eat on the terrace in the summer. |
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| Chidren love the Dordogne as there are numerous activities that they can get involved in. There are many camping sites and from those families can set out on walking, cycling and hiking tours.
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