With so much to see and do in the area….
Each fortified town of south west France has its own charm, architecture and history, with the church, cafe and produce market in the centre. Local towns worth visiting include Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, Monségur, Duras, Castillon-la-Bataille, with the larger towns of Libourne and Bergerac, and the city of Bordeaux offering a more comprehensive range of activities, markets and shops.
Bordeaux
The city of Bordeaux is easily accessible by car or train. Easy to get around on foot, by tram, bus, or city bike, and large enough to have everything you expect from a big city – museums, galleries, theatres, cafes, bars, restaurants, shops, markets, as well as range of annual events, for example Bordeaux Fête le Vin in June, and Fête du Vin Nouveau in November. The Bordeaux Tourist Office has more information.
Bergerac
Bergerac is found on the northern bank of the Dordogne, about 40km east of Claribès. It is among the largest towns in the region and is classified as a town of Art and History.
The old town, which is immediately north of the river signposted ‘vieille ville’, has ancient streets and squares, half timbered houses, museums, boutique shops and excellent restaurants.
On the South side of the river is Monbazillac with a 16th-century chateau, designated an historical monument. The tour of the chateau is dynamic, collaborative, immersive and fun thanks to videos, audio, light shows, puzzles, mapping and animations. Conclude your visit to the chateau with a tasting of the famous Monbazillac sweet wines.
Pilgrim Route
The pilgrim route of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle passes through Ste Foy and Pellegrue.
On the route is the Abbey Church of Saint-Ferme which features a 12th-century nave and remarkably well-preserved Romanesque capitals, with themes such as Daniel in the Lions’ Den and the Fall of Adam and Eve. You can enjoy walking a short section of the pilgrim route between Pellegrue and St Ferme.
Look out for Pilgrims and cyclists as you drive around the narrow country lanes!
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