The Dordogne region is a picturesque and fascinating area located between the Loire Valley and the High Pyrénées in southwestern France. The river Dordogne flows throw lush green countryside and alongside quaint villages, many of which have gained the prestigious "Most beautiful villages of France" title. The Dordogne is divided into four areas (or Périgords): the Green, White, Purple and Black Périgords, each with a different feel to it. The Green Périgord contains valleys and rivers, while the White Périgord is built on limestone plateaus and is largely open meadows. A vacation to the Dordogne offers the chance to learn not only about medieval history, but also prehistoric history through a visit to the ancient caves.

Use your Dordogne villa as a base from which to explore the caves that litter the region, from the underground caverns of Proumeyssac, to a troglodyte fort cut into the cliff face at La Roque-Gageac. Discover prehistoric cave paintings and engravings at Les Eyzies de Tayac, the Lascaux caves at Montignac, the caves at Villars and the newly discovered caves at Maxange. These fascinating drawings date back to between 15,000 and 13,000 BC! More information on them can be found in the museum of Les Eyzies.

Other notable museums for history fans include the Musuem of Medieval Wars at Castelnaud la Chapelle, and the Gallo-Roman Musuem at Périgeux. Périguex that contains many examples of roman architecture, in particular ruins of a giant tower and an arena. Other roman buildings, for example the tower of the castle of La Rigale, can be explored at Villetoureix.

A Dordogne holiday is an opportunity to admire the rich architecture of the region. The towns of Saint Leon sur Vezere, Conclat and Saint Jean de Cole have many beautiful old buildings. Along with amazing architecture and caves, discover an unusual series of 'tropical' gardens in La Roque-Gageac. Shop at the 15th century covered market in the medieval town of Belves. Step back in time in Monpazier, which has changed little in the past 600 years. Wander through the narrow lanes of Beynac to the castle that sits on top of a limestone cliff.

The medieval castle of Beynac is the most famous of the region. Its location gives it a stunning view of the Dordogne river and the white and yellow stone buildings. Be sure to visit the 12th century castle of Commarque which also sits on top of a hill, but overlooks the river Beune. The Dordogne valley boasts the Chatêau de Pécany, a 17th century castle that is now also a well know winery. Other castles of note include Bourdeilles, Monbazillac, Biron and Milandes.

For a more adventurous holiday, try canoeing, horse-riding, walking or mountain biking along the valleys of the Dordogne region. Take a boat trip from Bergerac, Beynac and La Roque Gageac. On a hot day, go swimming at the Limeuil beach, one of a few river beaches that are scattered along the Dordogne river. There is plenty for children to do in Dordogne, a highlight being Jacquou Park near Le Bugue which consists of three parks, an animal park, an aqua park and an amusement park. For adults and children alike, spend a day in the treetops at the Treetop Adventure Park in Thenon.

Festival and Events in Dordogne
Bergerac - Grain d'Automne: rural festival (October)
Monsac - Nuit celtique (May)
Sarlat - Sarlat Theatre Festival (July)
Sarlat - Sarlat Film Festival (November)
St Geniès - Festival of Music, Twirling and Gymnastics (May)
Périgord Vert - Les Estivales du Frau: classical music (September)