Dordogne luxury holiday cottages
A rural country retreat
Rent a holiday cottage in this privileged and immaculately preserved corner of France and it will soon have you under its spell...
Everything about the Dordogne is special - from colourful markets full of tempting produce in dreamy medieval towns, to elegant châteaux and dramatic castles. Relax in holiday accommodation in this exquisite French region and you'll be spoilt with scenic delights.
With its vineyard-clothed hills and sparkling rivers carving through limestone crags and wooded gorges, the lush landscape outside your country gite is just waiting to be explored.
Things to see and do in the Dordogne
Step out of your French holiday cottage to discover France's green corner...
- Bastide towns: Find yourself in medieval France exploring gorgeous walled towns and villages including Monpazier, Monflanquin and Domme.
- River trips: Cruise along the Dordogne river on a traditional 'gabarre' boat to see beautiful riverside towns and châteaux.
- Romantic castles: Castelnaud, Beynac, Biron and Bonaguil are among the magnificent ancient castles perched on rugged crags with commanding views.
- Markets: Find the best local produce and an authentic French atmosphere at traditional morning markets.
Tastes of the Dordogne
- Pride of Perigord: Fresh truffles and foie gras are two of the Dordogne's most famously decadent delicacies.
- Wines: Enjoy fine Bergerac wines but also the dark, peppery Cahors reds and sweet, white Monbazillacs.
- Clafoutis: The plump, sweet plums and cherries of the Dordogne and Limousin are put to mouthwatering use in this traditional baked dessert.
Don't miss...
- Rocamadour: Clinging to rugged cliffs, this spectacular ancient village and place of pilgrimage is one of France's best loved attractions.
You might spot all kinds of wild mushrooms in the Dordogne countryside, but why risk foraging yourself when market stalls are piled high with the most flavoursome varieties? 
Our regional team recommends
- Grotte de Font de Gaume and Grotte du Grand Roc are just two of the many fascinating caves around Les Eyzies featuring amazing prehistoric wall paintings.
- Medieval Sarlat is the quintessential Dordogne town, with honey-hued buildings, a maze of cobbled streets and a fantastic Saturday market.
- With wonderful river views and elaborate topiary, the Marqueyssac gardens are always stunning and especially magical on summer evenings, when they're lit-up by the sight of twinkling candles and melodies from musicians.
Did you know...?
Bergeracs's food and wine festival in July is a lively celebration of all the Dordogne's gourmet delights with street parties and music concerts.
You can also browse for a bargain at the antiques and bric-a brac market on the first Sunday of the month in Bergerac.
Cottages to rent in France
Nearest Airports
Bergerac, Limoges, Rodez and Toulouse.
Travel Tip
May, June and September can be the best times to visit the Dordogne when the weather is usually warm and sunny, but scenic routes and attractions are much quieter.
