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Places to see and things to do

While there is no way that you will be able to do full justice, in a short visit, to all that the area has to offer, our recommendations for nearby, 'must-see' towns and villages within easy striking distance of Belvès are listed below.

The Périgord is well known for its local gastronomy so be sure to visit some of the local markets and sample the regional produce (in Belvès, the market is held in the Halle on Staurday mornings). If you are a wine lover, Belvès is close to the Bergerac vineyards and their exceptional variety of wines.

There is a wide variety of cultural events and activities that take place throughout the year; some are listed in the side panel on this page. And facilities for sport and recreational activities also abound.


Wall painting in the Lascaux Cave

Map showing location of Belvès and nearby towns »

See our photo galleries of Belvès and the Périgord at www.belves.net

Towns and villages

Belvès itself is a historical treat; the local tourist office provides information on what to see and do and we have compiled a short description and some links to websites about Belvès.

To see the surrounding area you will need a car although you can, of course, take the train to some of the local towns. Our favourite places (click for map) include (in no particular order): Issegeac, St Cyprien, Domme, Sarlat, Beynac, La Rocque-Gageac, Limeuil, Villeréal and Monpazier.

Gardens

The overhanging gardens of Marqueyssac near Vezac are about a half hour drive to the north east of Belvès heading towards Sarlat (with candlelight visits until midnight every Thursday night in July and August). The formal gardens of Eyrignac Manor are a bit further, about 13 km northeast of Sarlat.

Castles

Don't miss a visit to the fortress of Castelnaud with its magnificent views over the Dordogne valley, and its amazing display of the machines and accoutrements of of warfare in the middle ages.

Nearby is the Chateau Milandes built in 1489 by the lord of Castelnaud to provide his wife with a more homely environment than the fortress. It is better known as the home of Josephine Baker after WWII and her adopted deprived children from around the world.

Trail Walks

If you are a walker, there are numerous 'pre-planned' walks in the area. These include the 16 km (5h 40m) Circuit de la Bessède loop starting and ending in Belvès and taking in some of the neighbouring villages, old churches, a Roman archeological site and through the Bessède Forest.

See the side panel for some links.

And, of course, you will have your own ideas about places you want to visit and what you want to do. If you like, we can arrange for a local (English-speaking) resident to drive you around. Contact details and indicative costs can be provided on request.