Green Perigord, ideal Holiday destination

Gateway destination in this beautiful region located in Northern Dordogne


From his three brothers Purple, Black and White, the Green Perigord (as described by Jules Verne probably for the beauty of its botanical heritage) is located in the northernmost of the Dordogne; it shares its wealth with the Haute-Vienne area to constitute the Périgord-Limousin Regional Park.

The shape of this green crescent calls gluttony, as well as local specialties from succulent flavor that garnish recipes: truffled goose foie gras, magret Rossini, walnut tart ... To discover a little more and bring some unforgettable memories for the taste buds, go to the "Maison du Foie Gras" in  Thiviers, to the "Maison de la Truffle" in Sorges and in the "Maison de la Pomme d'Or" in Lanouaille.

La truffe est un champignon incontournable de la gastronomie périgourdine. © OT Périgueux
The truffle (fungus) is a must in the Perigord gastronomy. © OT Périgueux

Leisurely stroll

After so many feasts, it is easy to eliminate excess weight in this generous nature where sports of all kinds are practiced without moderation. On land, there is a choice with over 2,500 km of marked paths and old tracks redeveloped. Perfect for mountain bikers and nature lovers enjoying fine walks or riding. As far as water-based activities, the Perigord Vert is crossed by many rivers.

A pied, à VTT ou à cheval, les possibilités de balades sont infinies. © Pays Périgord vert – Petite Souris Photographie
On foot, bike or horse riding, strolls possibilities are endless. © Pays Périgord vert – Petite Souris Photographie

Pêche et sports d'eau vive se pratiquent sur la Dronne. © PNRPL
Fishing and water sport can be practiced on the Dronne. © PNRPL

If these rivers contributed to the economy of the region, especially in the production of Nontron knives or the many mills to visit to discover traditional crafts such as milling and oil mill, they offer unlimited fiels to water sports fans. This is the case of the Dronne river, "most beautiful river in France" according to Reclus, where canoeing and fishing are essential. Isle river also offers the quiet of boat excursions while Auvézère river will delight the more adventurous with its many white-water passages. Ideal during intense summer heat, many swimming areas welcome holidaymakers, such as ponds of La Jemaye, Mialet, Saint-Estèphe and Rouffiac.

Passions for everybody

Going down the blue rivers of green Perigord will allow you to discover exceptional towns and castles. Travelers will have date with history in the Brantôme Abbey which is an invitation for calm in this environment rightly called the Green Venice of Perigord. Settle into one of the many inns to taste local specialties enjoying the cool places remains a privileged moment. The Romanesque art enthusiasts will go to satisfy their passion across the Ribérac area which presents interesting domed churches. Other antique buildings, more traditional, can be visited in the Val de Dronne. Craft enthusiasts will visit Nontron, an historic town that combined old stones and contemporary places.

Brantôme, surnommée la Venise verte du Périgord, est un véritable enchantement. © Spad'Zone
Brantôme, nicknamed Green Venice of the Dordogne, is an enchantment. © Spad'Zone