EXPLORE – aucoindesarbres

exploring the dordogne

The attractions listed below are in order of distance from Au Coin Des Arbres:

Chateau de Biron

Right on our doorstep and an easy walk through the woods, visit the castle of Biron and take in the wonderful views from the ramparts or enjoy a concert on a summer evening. The castle also hosts displays of contemporary art and craft markets. The Auberge is a great place for a drink or meal.

Domain le Tuque

Take a walk from Au Coin Des Arbres through the woods to our local organic vineyard. You can take a tour of the site and enjoy the views of Biron before having a wine tasting in the barn. Try the little-known Abouriou grape variety for something new.

Parc en Ciel

Just down the road at Lacapelle Biron, the Park in the Sky offers tree-top adventures and a water park. Combine this with a visit the pretty village of Saint Avit and the ceramics museum in memory of Bernard Palissy.

Chateau de Gavaudun

Set in the beautiful landscape of a nature reserve, this 12th century castle balances on a rock above the village of Gavaudun. Playing its role throughout the Hundred Years War, the castle has many tales to tell. You can drive here in a few minutes or make a long circular walk from Au Coin Des Arbres (16km round trip)

Bastide Towns

We sit in the middle of the historic Bastide Towns of the Dordogne and the Lot. Ranked amongst the most beautiful towns of France they tell the story of the English and French over the centuries. Monpazier, Villereal, Monflanquin and Issigeac are close by.

Markets and Night-Markets

The regional markets are a wonderful way to buy locally produced food. The tradition of night markets give you a chance to enjoy an evening meal and drink in the outdoors in beautiful surroundings and a great atmosphere.

antiques & flea Markets

The area abounds with Brocante shops and most weekends the towns around host Puces-Brocante and Vide Grenier markets. These events are full of charm and colour and you can pick up a bargain to take home and restore. Many items of furniture at Au Coin Des Arbes have been up-cycled this way.

Bière de la Bastide

This artisan micro-brewery down the road in Monpazier is based in an old car repair garage and exudes industrial chic! With many different award-winning beers to taste why not take one of their tours or stop by for a bite to eat. Check their website for live music evenings.

Chateau Bonaguil

Dating from the 13^thcentury this castle came to its prime two centuries later under the ownership of the local aristocrat, Bérenger de Roquefeuil, who created its 6 towers and imposing façade. A programme of family activities over the summer can be found on their website.

Chateau Beynac

The cobbled streets of Beynac-et-Cazenac lead steeply up to the imposing castle above. Learn about Richard the Lionheart and Eleanor of Aquitaine and take in the breath-taking views up and down the valley.

Chateau Castelnaud

Be a knight for the day! Perhaps the best known castle along the Dordogne valley by virtue of its commanding position, Castelnaud has an impressive collection of medieval weapons and siege engines. Combine it with a visit to Domme and a canoe trip down the river.

Canoe Loisirs

Canoe downstream along the most picturesque stretch of the Dordogne and see the castles of Castelnaud and Beynac clinging to the rocks along the way. The minibus will pick you up at the end so you don’t have to struggle back upstream.

Gardens of Marqueyssac

The most visited garden in Périgord and known for its amazing topiary.The park is situated on a spur and overlooks the entire Dordogne Valley with its chalky cliffs. It reveals the most spectacular panoramic view of Périgord.

Sarlat

The medieval town of Sarlat is a must-see during your stay. With something for everyone including gastronomy, history, street performers and festivals this is a busy place. Catch the market on Saturday but go early to avoid the crowds.

Bergerac

The largest local town brings together out of town shopping and a medieval centre with boutique shops and winding streets with half-timbered buildings. The bars and restaurants along the river quay are a delightful way to spend a lazy lunch.

Vineyard tours

There are many vineyards that offer tours and tasting opportunities around Bergerac and beyond towards St Emilion. Monbazillac is amongst the most famous and only 30 minutes away from us. The Chateau is open for tours and they have an extensive gift shop.

Pre-historic caves

With ten different caves to visit in the region, the Dordogne and Lot are amongst the most important prehistoric sites in the world. The museum of Cro-Magnon man at Les Eyzies or the nearby Lascaux caves are worth visiting.

Further afield

Visit the town of Rocamadour with its castle and monastery clinging to the rock face. The city of Cahors and the pretty town of Saint-Cirque-Lapopie make a longer day trip. A little further still you can have a day in Bordeaux (take the train from Le Buisson-de-Cadouin) or Toulouse.

Thank you for a superb week! Very charming hosts and a restful location. We’ve adored it!

Catherine, François, Alexis et Maximin