La Dordogne

In June 2024, we spent four unforgettable days in Sarlat, located in the Black Périgord region of Southwest France, about 200 km east of Bordeaux. We stayed in a charming, traditional house typical of the area, featuring a high slate roof.

Our accommodation was within walking distance of the town centre, allowing us to explore Sarlat’s historic streets and indulge in the region’s renowned local products at the market nestled in the heart of the old city.

To immerse ourselves in the local culture, we arranged a private tour to discover Sarlat and its specialties. Additionally, we explored the surrounding area with a knowledgeable local guide who has lived there all their life. They shared fascinating insights into the history of the Black Périgord and the picturesque villages along the Dordogne River.

As part of our journey, we took a scenic river cruise in a traditional style vessel, where our local guide provided historical context on the region’s past conflicts and interesting, sometimes amusing, facts about the castles dotting the river’s meandering banks. He also shared intriguing details about the geology of the area.

Lascaux IV is an experience not to be missed. The facsimile of the original prehistoric caves and information centre are fascinating and superbly presented. Our young tour guide was also very informative and entertaining.

After exploring several stunning villages by road, we capped off our adventure with an unforgettable helicopter tour. Seeing Sarlat, the surrounding villages, and the Dordogne river from above was a breathtaking experience—offering a completely different perspective on the landscapes we had admired from the ground.

Each evening, we followed local recommendations to dine at authentic restaurants, savouring the region’s exquisite cuisine. We were delighted with their suggestions, and since returning home, we’ve eagerly shared our wonderful experiences, along with a list of must-see sights and must-try dishes, with friends and family.

Indulge in a bespoke French adventure this summer and create memories that will last a lifetime. Ritzy Experience would love to help you explore the natural wonders of France, and craft a unique luxury experience for you. Get in touch with us to start building your next French adventure.