Towns and villages

• Bastide towns such as Monpazier and Domme dating from 12th century
• Sarlat is one of the most beautiful towns in France, stuffed with well restored architectural gems
• Cahors: daily market, cathedral and Pont Valentré
• Markets and fairs: most villages have a weekly produce market and there are local fairs and special events throughout much of the year, including evening marchés gourmands

Castles and gardens

• Dordogne valley castles: Beynac, Marqueyssac, Milandes, Castelnaud are all open to the public
• The gardens of the Manoir d’Eyrignac are among the finest in France; several worthwhile smaller gardens of different styles in the area

Prehistory and natural phenomena

• Cave paintings  at Lascaux, Pech-Merle, Font de Gaume and Cougnac
• Museum of prehistory at Les Eyzies
• Chasm and underground river at Padirac
• Rocamadour: historic pilgrimage site

Activities and sports

• Canoeing on the Dordogne
• Wakeboarding at Trémolat
• Quad bikes
• Pony trekking and donkey rides
• Walking – open access countryside and good footpath maps
• Many activity parks suitable for children

Out of season

• Wild orchids in April/May
• Mushroom foraging in autumn
• Truffle markets in winter