Dordogne

French Holiday Gites -
Self catering Dordogne Holiday Rental Cottages, Houses and Villas, France

Search Rent-in-France for self catering holiday rental cottages, gites and villas in the popular Dordogne area, France. Dordogne, known to the French as Périgord, is a department in south-west France. It is named after the river Dordogne that runs through it and is located in the region of Aquitaine, between the Lore valley and the Haute-Pyrenees. Dordogne is surrounded by the other departments of Haute-Viennes, Correze, Lot, Lot-et-Garonne, Gironde, and Charente. The department is the third largest of the country, and Dordogne has become one of the most visited destinations for British people to rent or buy accommodation in France. If you chose to stay in a self catering Dordogne holiday home it is difficult to avoid the sound of British voices, which although seems to deter french visitors, is truly a testament to the area’s huge appeal. The Dordogne is one of the original 83 departments created during the French revolution, created from  which was originally known as the county of Périgord.

Split into four areas Perigord blanc, Perigord vert, Perigord poupre and Perigord noir, the area known as the Dordogne, named after its own mighty river has long been a popular holiday destination for the French and British alike. The Dordogne has been described as the land of 1001 castles and it truly lives up to its name. Everywhere you go there is antiquity and grandeur with fairytale castles, fortified houses and impressive ancient battlements. As with most of France, the people of the Dordogne are rightfully proud of their heritage and it is perfectly preserved and maintained so that it can be enjoyed by us all now and by generations to come. From the stunning medieval architecture of the black Perigord and Sarlat, to the impressive river frontage of Brantome in the Perigord Vert, the Dordogne has something for everyone.

There is plenty to enjoy in the Dordogne. The countryside is beautiful, and there are many medieval towns and villages that are worth visting. The rich cuisine is both fantastic and excellent value when compared with the UK – enjoy many delicacies such as truffles and foie gras! The Dordogne area is also home to some of the finest vineyards in the world - Take a trip to the numerous caves around and sample some of the local wines!

The department is spoilt for great accommodation. There are many holiday rental cottages, gites and villas with pools in the Dordogne for your ideal holiday! Some places in the Dordogne are more touristy than elsewhere in rural France, but if it is a peaceful and tranquil experience that you are looking for, it is important to remember that the Dordogne is large and mostly very empty. Thus, it is very possible to avoid the crowds. The peak holiday period runs from mid-July till the end of August. Bordeaux and Toulouse are two convenient airports to travel to. The closest airport to the Dordogne lies just 20 minutes away which is Bergerac,France (EGC).  Ryanair and Flybe fly regulary from Southampton (SOU), Bristol (BRS), Birmingham (BHX), Liverpool (LPL) and London Stanstead (STN). Limogues, France (LIG) is recommended if visiting the northern parts of the Dordogne such as the Perigord Vert.  Bergerac is accessible by a high speed train from Lille. There is a regular Eurostar service from St Pancras, London to Lille. Approximate journey time is around 9 hours with a number of changes.

In summary, the Dordogne, or Perigord region, is a tremendous region of natural beauty, historical buildings, interesting architecture, delicious cuisine, quiet country roads perfect for activities such as cycling/walking, beautiful meandering rivers and dense forests full with wildlife. It will not disappoint you! With such a wide variety of activities the Dordogne is one of the hot spots for Brits and French families and you will find that it is bursting with holiday makers during the summer months. On the other hand the region goes into hibernation during the winter months as the majority of hotels, tourist attractions and restaurants all close.

Some Popular Attractions to visit during your Dordogne holiday rental: 

Bergerac – Rent a holiday property in Bergerac and experience one of the largest towns in the region, situated on the northern bank of the Dordogne River in southwestern France. Best known for it’s production of wine and tobacco, and its lovely streets and squares. Its one of the main market towns in the area where you can find plenty of restaurants  to enjoy during your stay with a number of vineyards that offer free tasting.

Perigueux – a vibrant town considered to be the capital of the Dordogne region, Aquitaine. Has been the centre of the Dordogne region for over 2,000 years and makes an ideal touring base for the chateaux and lakes. Look out for the tiny squares and narrow streets that come alive on market days.

Brantome - sometimes referred to as the ‘Venice of the Dordogne’ this attractive town is situated along the river Dronne. 

Beynac - Known for its 13th century caslte High above the north bank of the river Dordogne. The castle has been restored to its original medieval splendour. Take a trip and admire stunning views from the castles rooftop.

Le Bugue - an attractive, small market town located on the banks of Vezere River, between Limeuil and Les Eyzies de Tayac. 

Riberac – a pleasant town situated on the Dronne river. Great for shopping, restaurants and bars. Take a walk up to the Eglise Notre Dame and continue up to the Collegiate Notre Dame. 

Sarlat - Stay in a holiday rental cottage in Sarlat, Dordogne and enjoy this beautiful and hugely popular town located just north of the River Dordogne. This preserved medieval town sets a fine example of the coloured architecture that the Dordogne has to offer. The town boasts quality shops and a Saturday market regarded as the best in the area for all the basics for traditional Perigordian cuisine. A must for lovers of the culinary arts.

Domme – Rent a holiday home in Domme, a medieval bastide town which overlooks the Dordogne River. Stunning views  across fields, woods and other hill villages along the river.

Lascaux Caves at Montignac – a Cave system filled with prehistoric wall art, situated near Montignac-sur-Vezere in the Dordogne.   

Saint-jean-de-cole - One of the most beautiful villages in France . Home of the annual flower festival in May. Its 11th century church makes this a picture perfect spot where thoughout the summer months the church will host a number of musical events.