Aquitaine/Dordogne, France travel info
Guide to Aquitaine/Dordogne, France
More info on...
France travel facts
| Area (sq km): | 547,030 | |
| Population: | 64,102,140 | |
| Nationality: | French | |
| Local Name: | France | |
| Language: | French | |
| Time Zone: | +1 GMT | |
| Currency: | 1 euro = 100 cents | |
| Rate: | www.xe.com | |
| Capital: | Paris | |
| Dialling Code: | +33 | |
| Electricity: | 230V/50Hz | |
| Internet Code: | .fr | |
| Religion: | Roman Catholic | |
| Climate: | Mediterranean, Marine West Coast |
|
| Government: | Republic | |
| Inoculations: | None | |
| Driving: | Right | |
| Int'l License: | Not Required | |
| Banking: | M-F 9.00-17.00 | |
| Major Airports: | Biarritz(BIQ), Bordeaux(BOD), Dijon(DIJ), Marseille(MRS), Nice(NCE), Paris(CDG), Toulouse(XYT) |
Tourism - Aquitaine villas & Dordogne villas
The Dordogne River Valley in Perigord evokes emotion from its simple beauty. Stay in Dordogne villas and explore the wineries in Dordogne of the classic French style with shady wooded courtyards and oak scented cellars.
The names Dordogne and Perigord are interchangeable. The region rests in the southwest of France amongst the lush Dordogne River Valley. The river feeds the surrounding area making the wineries in Dordogne contenders for the best in France and the countryside abundant in flora. Touring the departments within from Dordogne villas is a sensational experience for all of your senses. Taste the wine, smell the fragrant truffles, feel the cool river, hear the birds cry and see the wonders abound.
Dordogne is Perigord
Dordogne is often called Perigord and the region is also divided further into colour-coded areas. Nontron is at the centre of Perignan Vert, which gets its name from its many rivers and flourishing green hills. Perigord Pourpre, or purple, is aptly named for its thriving vineyards and succulent grapes. Touring Perigord Pourpre from Dordogne villas is an absolute delight to the senses with the many glorious wine houses set in serene landscapes.
Perigord Blanc gets its name from the white limestone so common to the area. The limestone has been used in the buildings and homes for ages adding a unique flare to Dordogne. Take time to visit Perigrd Noir when you book French villas. Many people consider Perigord Noir to be the best place for tourists. Stunning Perigord Noir is home to over two thirds of the world’s cave art. Along the Vezere River the ancient cave art is at its best and depicts scenes from times forgotten. The National Museum of Prehistory accounts for the wonders of the region’s ancient times and houses a visit worthy collection.
The Dordogne River Valley
The Dordogne is often referred to as the most beautiful river in France. Canoes and kayaks are readily available on the Dordogne River Valley, and a trip along the gentle section of the river will afford you vistas of ancient castles and cave art. Visit dramatic riverside villages like Domme and Roufignac and stop on a beach for a picnic.
In the past, gabare boats on the Dordogne River were commonplace. Today, once again, the gabare boats are a common sight. Some of the best Dordogne River cruises are upon these romantic boats. You’ll see white limestone cliffs, old manor homes, fishing boats, kayaks and vibrant wildflowers along the shores of the Dordogne.
Wineries in Dordogne, Perigord Pourpre
The Aquitaine/Dordogne region of France is famous for Bordeaux. Legendary Bordeaux is synonymous with France’s finest wines, and indeed the world’s finest wines, but you would be remiss to skip the brilliant wineries in Dordogne.
Visiting the Dordogne vineyards in autumn is a favourite for many. The vines are gold and salmon hues at sunset and the harvest for the new season is just coming in. Chateau de Monbazillac is one of the most beautiful wineries in France making fabulous sweet whites. Clos les Cotes is best known for its AOC wines. Domaine de Laulan has paved the way in many wine innovations and Chateau Tourdes Gendres continues to produce delicious white and red cuvees. From Dordogne villas visit Bergerac and Monbazillac, which are a great jumping off place for visiting the wineries in Dordogne.