0f the numerous towns worthy of a visit, Perigueux town centre should
not be missed. With its narrow streets and sunny squares it looks
and feels typically French.
Brantome is famous for its abbey and is known as the "Venice du Perigord"
with its riverside cafes and restaurants. Two arms of the river Dronne,
over which are several stone bridges, enfold the little town. The
red roofed buildings and riverside gardens add to its charm.
Villages such as St Jean de Cole need to be discovered on foot, their
beauty being hidden from the road and easily missed.There are several
restaurants in this village, all of which are interesting, and a rather
grand Chateau.
The Chateau at Jumilhac occupies a commanding position overlooking
the square of this small town. It has been used in many films. It
is nice to go here on a Sunday morning when the local people gather
to sell local produce on the market and bric-a--brac. Then you can
retire on to the terrace of the café for an aperitif or a cup
of coffee and watch the world go by! Other chateaux are open to visitors
and many hold exhibitions in the season.
Between Thiviers and Brantome are the Grottes de Villars---miles
of underground passageways and home to ancient civilisations.
Becoming increasingly popular during the summer vacations, vide grenieres
or brocantes provide an excellent opportunity to find interesting
souvenirs at bargain prices, if you are lucky enough to chance upon
one. Village fetes can be well worth a visit; the fete at St. Pierre
de Frugie (end of July) in particular should not be missed
For days out you may wish to visit Bergerac or sample the wines from
the area. Sarlat, too, is impressive, and popular with summer visitors.
You could even do battle with the traffic in Bordeaux.