Activities

When the Montgolfièr brothers invented the famous hot air balloon, they could not have imagined that their invention would still find enthusiastic followers centuries later.

The most popular of all lovers of the sky, as well as those who like to try something new. Much-praised hot air balloon tours are frequently offered by Périgord Dordogne Montgolfières. They are a unique opportunity to discover a stunning panorama.

Périgord Dordogne Montgolfières in 24250 Castelnaud-la-Chapelle

Fon +33 683264766

https://www.perigord-dordogne-montgolfieres.com/en/

A visit to the park is a true journey into the past. In the middle of a protected forest, you can explore the extraordinary world of dinosaurs and the evolution of humans, including a fully restored Neolithic village, on a circular trail with more than 150 life-size representations. The star of the park: a giant animated T-Rex, 9 m long and 6 m high!

To refresh yourself at 30°C in summer, the Dordogne Valley has numerous lakes, rivers, secret coves and waterfalls. The beautiful sandy beaches along the river are ideal for a nap or a picnic.

Incidentally, the Dordogne is the only river in France that has been declared a World Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.

Cyrano de Bergerac is a novel by the author Edmond Rostand. The hero of the drama Cyrano joins the regiment “French Guard” at the age of 19, which consists mainly of musketeers.

He wields the sword as well as the pen and thus became the classic hero of Gascony. The premiere of the drama took place in Paris in 1897 at the Porte Saint Martin theatre.

Located near the most important prehistoric caves, this museum is not only a place to remember the prehistory of mankind. It also serves as a conservatory for objects and a study centre.

Since its foundation at the beginning of the 20th century, it has become a reference site for prehistorians.

A stone’s throw from our manor, Domme is situated on a high cliff with an exceptional view of the Dordogne valley as well as La Roque-Gageac and Beynac-et-Cazenac, both officially listed among the most beautiful villages in France.

This bastide with its golden stones authentically reflects the natural, gastronomic, and architectural heritage of the Périgord Noir.

Issigeac is a medieval village whose winding streets bring the past back to life. Discover the village’s long history and fine architectural heritage, home to artisans.

The Sunday market is an absolute must! While the market is manageable in winter, in summer it spreads over almost the entire village. Everyone will find their chance here!

The Monbazillac area is set amidst hills and slopes stretching from the left bank of the Dordogne to the right bank of the Gardonnette. This area, made up of five communes, makes up a quarter of the Bergerac wine region in total.

During a tour of the vineyards, you will learn about the Eocene and Oligocene periods, what a molasse is and many other secrets of this wine region.

The soul of Josephine Baker still lives on today in the Milandes Castle, built in the 15th century and awarded the distinction of “Maisons des Illustres”. The singer, dancer and actress (star of Music Halls) from Missouri, who campaigned for equal rights for all peoples, lived there for almost 30 years.

She adopted twelve children, thus creating what she called a “rainbow family”. The Milandes Castle Park, which was awarded the title of “Remarkable Garden” in 2016, is flown over by birds of prey during the shows held on the terrace and thus still exudes the splendour of former times.

Especially for beginners and families, the Dordogne offers a canoeing experience par excellence. It is considered one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe, has natural, unspoilt banks, a rather calm river course and a mild climate.

Canoeists in particular will find great routes here. The website www.dordognecanoe.com informs canoeists and those who want to become canoeists about boat rental companies, opening times, tariffs and offers, equipment and presents individual routes and sights along the rivers. You also have the option of reserving boats online with the individual rental companies.

The Sarlat-based company “Liberty Cycle” offers cycling tours in Castelnaud la Chapelle and in Sarlat. The tours are accompanied by expert tour guides and offer you the opportunity to get to know the landscape and sights of the region from the saddle of a bicycle.

The bike tours are aimed at individuals or families and take place from April to November. During your tour you will stop, among other things, at a farm typical of the region, where you can taste regional products. As a novelty, three-hour night tours are also offered, during which you can learn many interesting things about the stars of the summer sky.

The night excursions take place daily in July and August. As a special highlight, you can buy a film of your personal tour.

More information at liberty-cycle.com

Beginners and professionals alike will find great courses in the Dordogne to practise their tee-off! The seven golf courses in the region offer 4 18-hole courses and 3 9-hole courses, allowing golfers of all levels to pursue their passion.

All the courses are located in the immediate vicinity of major tourist attractions.

• 27-hole course: Château des Vigiers in Monestier
• 18-hole course: Périgueux in Marsac
• 18-hole course: Marterie in St Félix de Reilhac
• 18-hole course: Lolivarie in Siorac
• 9-hole course: Club Château Les Merlesin Mouleydier
• 9-hole course Essendieras in St Médard d’Excideuil
• 9-hole course: La Forge in Siorac
• 9-hole course: Domaine de Rochebois in Vitrac