Discover the Region
The Périgord Vert Region
D
A way of life in the heart of the Dordogne
Surrounding the Domaine d’Essendiéras is an authentic and generous region known as the Périgord Vert.
With its deep forests, peaceful rivers and charming villages, this part of northern Dordogne invites you to slow down, breathe and enjoy the good life.
Here, nature reigns supreme and every turn reveals a new discovery: a hilltop château, a colourful market, a road lined with oak and chestnut trees…
Cultural visits
The Périgord is a land steeped in history. Just a few minutes from the Domain, the stones tell tales of centuries of legends.
Discover the Château de Hautefort, one of the most majestic castles in the south-west, or the Château de Jumilhac-le-Grand, nicknamed ‘the golden castle’.
Don’t miss Saint-Jean-de-Côle, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, as well as Excideuil and Thiviers, where medieval streets and lively market halls blend harmoniously.
Gourmet markets
It is impossible to talk about the Dordogne without mentioning its markets.
In Thiviers, Excideuil or Saint-Yrieix-la-Perche, local producers welcome you with smiles and generosity: foie gras, truffles, walnuts, strawberries, cabécou cheese, honey…
In summer, indulge in the gourmet markets, those convivial evenings where you dine at long tables to the sound of music, under lanterns.
Nature activities and adventure
The Périgord Vert can also be explored in the open air!
Nestled among green valleys, the region offers an ideal playground to enjoy nature to the fullest.
Paddle down the Auvézère or Isle rivers in a canoe, a refreshing and accessible way to discover the landscapes from the water. Hiking and mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy the many marked trails around the estate, which alternate between forests, clearings and viewpoints. Horse riding allows you to explore the Périgord countryside at a gentle pace, at the horses’ pace.
For an unforgettable experience, there’s nothing like a hot air balloon flight at sunrise: a unique way to admire the landscapes of the Périgord Vert from the sky. And for those who prefer quieter moments, the region’s lakes and rivers offer beautiful fishing spots, perfect for relaxing in the heart of nature.
Leisure and adventure activities
To experience the Périgord Vert in a more dynamic way, the region offers a multitude of fun and sport activities that will appeal to young people and families. At Rouffiac, water sports enthusiasts can try their hand at water skiing or wakeboarding thanks to the cable ski, an ideal place to spend a sunny day enjoying thrills and laughter.
In Rouffiac or Thenon, tree-climbing adventure parks invite young and old alike to swing from tree to tree, zip-lining, crossing suspension bridges and completing challenges high up in the trees. It’s a great way to combine adventure and the great outdoors in a lush green setting.
Speed enthusiasts will enjoy the nearby go-kart tracks, perfect for challenging friends and family. And for a more playful outing, head to Le Bugue, where the Parc du Bournat immerses visitors in the atmosphere of an early 20th-century village, with rides, entertainment and traditional crafts. Just a stone’s throw away, the Aquarium du Périgord Noir, one of the largest in Europe, offers visitors the chance to discover an incredible diversity of aquatic species.
Flavours and traditions
A land of culinary delights par excellence, the Périgord can be savoured at every meal.
Try the foie gras, truffles, Bergerac wines, walnuts and local honeys.
Set off on gourmet trails to meet producers and artisans who perpetuate ancestral know-how.
Local farmhouses and restaurants welcome you to share the very essence of Périgord cuisine.
Things to see nearby
From the Domaine d’Essendiéras, set off to discover some of the gems of the Périgord and the surrounding area:
Ségur-le-Château, a medieval village listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in France.
The Gardens of Eyrignac, a masterpiece of French formal gardens.
Brantôme, nicknamed ‘the Venice of Périgord’ for its peaceful walks along the Dronne river.
Sarlat-la-Canéda, the jewel of the Périgord Noir, renowned for its medieval heritage and lively atmosphere.
And for those who like to get lost, simply let yourself be guided: every road and every village will offer you a new emotion.
the Caves
The region also has many treasures underground.
A few kilometres away, the Tourtoirac Cave reveals a magical setting of stalactites and limestone draperies.
The larger Villars Cave combines geological beauty with prehistoric paintings.
For a more distant cultural getaway, head to the legendary Lascaux Caves in the Périgord Noir.
our favourites
The gourmet market in Thiviers in summer, a festive atmosphere guaranteed!
The sunset from the Château de Hautefort.
A walk or bike ride through woods and rivers, starting from the estate.
Image credits:
Sarlat OT / @declicetdecolle / brokeandbetty / saisondor / semitour / R Flament