The French Dordogne region in photos: nature, history and leisure

Do you know the French region of the Dordogne? Between exceptional natural sites and one of the richest heritages in France, this area has everything to seduce visitors. Take a look at the most beautiful images!

Among the highly frequented sites of Périgord, the medieval La Roque-Gageac is one of the most beautiful villages in the region.

Located at the foot of a cliff that follows the course of the river, the village aligns stone constructions typical of local architecture.

Nicknamed the 'Boulevard of Humanity,' the Grande Terrasse de la Roque Saint-Christophe extends over 300 meters. This limestone 'tsunami' is split by the largest aerial shelter in Europe.

With an ancient city and a troglodyte fort of more than 1,000 years old, the place offers an immersion in prehistory but also a panoramic view of the waters of the Vézère river.

Located near La Roque Saint-Christophe, this cliff castle is one of a kind in the world. Built into the middle of a limestone cliff, the Reignac stronghold surprises travelers as they round a steep bend.

Of particular beauty, this building in Renaissance style surprises visitors with its strange and mysterious atmosphere. Despite its seigneurial appearance, it shelters a troglodyte habitat that was already used in prehistoric times.

In the valley of the Five Castles, that of Milandes is a sumptuous Renaissance residence adorned with a garden with hundred-year-old trees. In the middle of the Périgord forests, it is undoubtedly the most glamorous of the Périgord castles.

It is here that Josephine Baker took up residence in the late 1930s. Her traces remain omnipresent in the castle as soon as you cross the Art Nouveau-style gate.

The largest chasm in Périgord, Proumeyssac is 52 meters deep. It's also nicknamed the 'Crystal Cathedral.' The spectacle of fountains and stalagmites will leave you speechless.

Photo: @ guide-du-perigord.com

Many legends have contributed to the magic of the place: some people would have seen flames springing up there, suspecting the existence of an underground volcano. This place is a must-see!

Photo: @ guide-du-perigord.com

The capital of the Périgord Noir, Sarlat-la-Canéda is renowned for its Medieval and early Renaissance architecture. The small town is regularly used as a setting for historical films.

You can stroll through its picturesque alleys and small squares surrounded by mansions with slate roofs. Don't forget to stop by the market to taste the region's traditional products, such as truffles, figs, and foie gras.

The village of Belvès is absolutely worth the detour: you can admire its belfry as well as the exceptional view of the Nauze valley.

The village is also known for its underground maze, which makes it one of the most famous in all of the Dordogne.

In the Périgord Pourpre region, Monpazier is typical of the 'bastides,' the large medieval villages organized around a central square that make up the charm of south-western France.

The Place des Cornières will give you the impression of traveling back in time. The many craftsmen who work on-site give the village a unique atmosphere of authenticity.

Want a bit of nature? The seven gardens of the Eyrignac manor (an estate that has belonged to the same family for 22 generations) are definitely for you!

From the plant sculptures of the Allée des Charmes to the circular Chambre de Verdure, passing by the French Garden or the Jardin des Vagabondes, this romantic setting will allow you to recharge your batteries while admiring the heights of the Périgord Noir.

Perched 150 meters high on a limestone spur, the Château de Beynac dominates the Valley of the Five Castles. Once at the top, you can enjoy an exceptional panorama over the meanders of the Dordogne.

The village of Beynac is also ranked among the most beautiful in France. Discover its steep streets and the terraces that punctuate the ascent to the castle.