The Dordogne

Canoe and Hike adventure along the Vezere River

2009-12-20T17:15:00.000-08:00

Walking Dordogne has the well deserved reputation for offering the best and most unique tours and trips in the Dordogne. Hiking, canoeing, horse riding, mountain biking and caving are all on the must do list for visitors wanting to experience the Dordogne, and not just see the Dordogne.

For 3 years now, they have been taking small groups from every corner of world into the very remote and unmapped parts of the Dordogne, exploring prehistoric caves, shelters, troglodytes as well as Roman and Medievel ruines.

From Walking Dordogne's Blog
NEW FOR 2010 "Sacred River of Dreams"

After our "Valley of Caves" tour, the "Canoe / Hike the Vezere' is our second most popular trip, and last year we had to turn down 47 people for this trip alone. "Canoe Hike the Vezere" is a fantastic (long) day trip, as the title suggests, canoeing and hiking to various prehistoric places of interest. However, we did have one big problem with this trip, and that was to decide WHICH prehistoric sites to hike to, because we can only fit so much into "Dawn till Dusk" and there is just so much to see, so, we came up with this new Trip Sacred River of Dreams.

Sacred River of Dreams is the ultimate adventure, we will canoe and explore 30 miles of the Vezere River. Our ancestors settled here, and roamed this area more than 460,000 years ago. These were the hunting grounds of the Neaderthals, and it was here that our ancestors the Cro Magnon settled. This area is riddled with prehistoric caves, shelters and troglodytes, that are unmapped, unknown and unforgettable. Too much to explore in just one day, so we will stay a night in a real Neanderthal cave, with spectacular views of the valley and river. On day 2 we will continue down river and continue our exploration, and at the end of this adventure we will all enjoy a delicious meal in Les Eyzies de Tayac.

This trip will be offered twice a week, from April thru October 20th. NO trips during July and August, and a max. of 6 people per trip ( 3 canoes)

If you would like to do a canoe / hike trip like this, but would rather not, or cannot do an overnight trip, then consider our "Canoe / Hike the Vezere" trip.

As with ALL our trips, you are guaranteed a UNIQUE and exciting trip of a lifetime.

For more info visit : www.walkingdordogne.com

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Best mountain Biking Trails in the Dordogne

2009-07-30T17:51:00.000-07:00

Visitors from around the world are coming to the Dordogne, not for the Prehistoric sites, or Medieval Towns and Villages, No, they are coming to Mountain Bike.
Since some of Walking Dordogne's Mountain Biking Videos were posted on various sites such as YouTube and Mountain Bike Mayhem interest in their tours have gone through the roof.

Walking Dordogne is very secretive about their Trails, but, as Duke from Walking Dordogne states,

this is because we have spent years putting these unique trails together, and a lot of our trails are actually on private property.

Walking Dordogne's notorious rides are :

•The Devils Play Ground
•Satan's Fury
•Devils Backbone
•Valley of Revenge
•Hells Gorge

Walking Dordogne are planning to launch two Dordogne "EPIC" trails, an EPIC Trail is a trail that will take a whole day (if lucky) to complete, usually aboy 8+ hours.
These 2 EPICS will be finalized in about November, and will be added to the 2010 list of trips / tours.

To make it easier for Mountain Bikers around the world to find mountain biking in the Dordogne info, Walking Dordogne has launched a "Mountain Biking Dordogne" web page : www.mountainbikingdordogne.com

For all other Walking Dordogne Tours and Trips visit : www.walkingdordogne.com

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Cycle tours and bike rentals Dordogne

2009-05-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Aquitaine Bike the cycle hire and cycling tour base in the Dordogne. They are located in the Perigord Noir, near the confluence of the rivers Dordogne and Vezere. The best way to explore the Dordogne Region is by bicycle. Aquitaine Bike's rent 24-speed Cannondale and 24-speed Trek hybrid/touring bikes. These lightweight, high performance bikes are ideal for the country roads in the Perigord and surrounding area.

We can say without doubt that the best cycling conditions are to be found in the Dordogne: quiet country roads to suit all levels of riding, beautiful scenery, and one of the cleanest rivers in Europe to cool off in... La Dordogne. Weather conditions here are great for riding from April to November.

Since 2000, Aquitaine Bike has organized cycling tours throughout France and Spain and worked as consultants to U.S. and British bicycle touring companies. Alongside their bike hire services, they specialize in self-guided custom tours in the Dordogne. Their system and organisation of these cycling tours keep costs to a minimum. Check out their Touring page for details. You can find suggestions for accommodation on the Where to Stay page.

The routes and itineraries that Aquitaine Bike design are the result of 20 years of personal cycling experience in the region and 10 years of client feedback.

Visit their Southwest France Tour page for information on our self-guided trip across Aquitaine, from the Dordogne to the Basque Country.

The Dordogne, or Perigord region, is a treasure of natural beauty, prehistory, history, architecture, and gourmet cuisine built around such delicacies as foie gras, the famous black truffle, walnuts, and fresh strawberries. Magnificent feudal and renaissance castles, prehistoric cave art, quiet country roads linking charming honey-coloured stone villages, meandering rivers, and dense oak and chestnut forests full with deer and wild boar. This magical land will enchant you!

Aquitaine Bike are fully insured and listed with the Ministry of Health, Youth, and Sports, reference number 02407ET0126.

Robert and Amy Owensmith
24220 Coux et Bigaroque, France
Email: aquitainebike@gmail.com
Tel / Fax: +33 (0) 553.30.35.17

For more info visit: www.aquitainebike.com

Aquitaine Bike is highly recommended by

B&B Ferme de Tayac : www.fermedetayac.com

Scenic Dordogne : www.scenicdordogne.com

Walking Dordogne : www.walkingdordogne.com

Les Eyzies Tourist Info : www.leseyzies-tourist.info

The Dordogne : www.thedordogne.com

Dordogne Tourist Info : www.dordognetourist.info

Duke of Dordogne : www.dukeofdordogne.com

High on Mountain Biking : www.highonmountainbiking.com

Dordogne advertising that works

2008-12-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

The Duke of Dordogne has just launched a new personal website listing some very useful sites that he uses to promote the Dordogne.
Any and every Dordogne website owner should take a look and see all the options of advertising yourself on one or more of his sites.
The Duke specializes in promoting the Dordogne with more than 30 Dordogne related and high ranking sites that target people interested and looking for information about the Dordogne.

Web design, logo / graphics, web hosting, domain names, database driven websites, site maintenance, Complete SEO, site submiting and lots more.

For Dordogne accommodation advertising, link exchange, article advertising, review advertising, photo gallery advertising, Free advertising, Package advertising, you name it, the Duke will arrange it.

Let the Duke of Dordogne put you on the web.

For more ifo : www.dukeofdordogne.com

For more ifo : www.dukeofdordogne.com

Please forward this link to anyone you know in the Dordogne, that has a website, they will thank you it.

Vezere Valley Prehistoric Capital

2008-11-29T07:17:00.000-08:00

The Vezere valley contains 147 prehistoric sites dating from the Paleolithic and 25 decorated caves. It is particularly interesting from an ethnological and anthropological, as well as an aesthetic point of view because of its cave paintings, especially those of the Lascaux Cave, whose discovery in 1940 was of great importance for the history of prehistoric art.
The Vezere Valley is also home to the National Prehistoric Museum, Font de Gaume, Combereilles, Cro Magnon Shelter, The Grand Roc, Lascaux, Eglise St. Martin, Ferme de Tayac and many, many more sites of interest

Dordogne Design has just launched a stunning new site that shows off the Vezere Valley in the Dordogne like you have never seen it before.Beautiful photo’s taken on Walking Dordogne’s famous trips exploring the Vezere Valley.

For more info visit : http://www.thevezerevalley.com/

Picture Tour of the Dordogne

2008-11-16T19:49:00.001-08:00

Dordogne Design have launched yet another Dordogne Web site. http://www.thedordogne.com/ is a web site that will take you on an image tour of the Dordogne.

The Dordogne region of South West France is without doubt the most beautiful and diverse region of France and the world. It is here in the Dordogne, the Vezere Valley that our ancestors chose to settle more than 450.000 years ago. It is here that the link between Prehistoric Man and Modern Man was discovered.
But the Dordogne is not just famous for it's Prehistoric treasures such as Lascaux and Font de Gaume, the Dordogne is also famous for Medieval towns and villages, such as Sarlat, Beyac and Domme, Medieval strongholds, cloisters bastides and lots of other amazing attractions.
The Dordogne should be on everyones wishlist.

This site was made possible thanks to the dedication of a few people to promote the beautiful Dordogne region. Please take the time to visit their websites.

B&B Ferme de Tayac, for 3 years now, this B&B in a 12th century former farmhouse / monastery in the heart of the Vezere Valley, has been voted the travellers choice of accommodation.http://www.fermedetayac.com/

Dordogne Design has a Dordogne web site portfolio of more than 30 related sites promoting the Dordogne. If you have a Dordogne related buisness, and would like to make full potential use of the web, then Dordogne Design is the place to be.http://www.dordognedesign.com/

Walking Dordogne has been taking the very lucky few visitors to places in the Dordogne we can only dream of. If you want to experience the REAL Dordogne, rather than just visit the Dordogne, the head to their web site, check their trips, and maybe one day you will be one of the lucky ones.http://www.walkingdordogne.com/

For more info visit : http://www.thedordogne.com/

Everything about Les Eyzies and the Dordogne on one site

2008-11-01T13:16:00.000-07:00

Planning a visit to Les Eyzies de Tayac or the Vezere or Dordogne Valley? then leseyzies.info is definitely a site you should take a look at.Find out what and where the main attractions are, when to go, when not to go, history, accommodation, les eyzies and dordogne related articles and lots of other useful info every visitor should know before they visit the area.
More than 450.000 years our ancestors chose and settled in the Vezere Valley .. thats correct, Les Eyzies de Tayac is where our ancestors called home, and it was here that in 1868 the link between Prehistoric Man, and Modern Man was discoverd.

The Vézère valley contains 147 prehistoric sites dating from the Palaeolithic and 25 decorated caves. It is particularly interesting from an ethnological and anthropological, as well as an aesthetic point of view because of its cave paintings, especially those of the Lascaux Cave, whose discovery in 1940 was of great importance for the history of prehistoric art. The hunting scenes show some 100 animal figures, which are remarkable for their detail, rich colours and lifelike quality.
The Vezere Valley and Les Eyzies should be on everyone's wish list, but it is only the lucky ones that actually make it back to where our ancestors called home.

For more info : http://www.leseyzies.info/

Duke of Dordogne

2008-10-22T18:29:00.001-07:00

The Duke of Dordogne suddenly appeared on the web with an excellent web site that lists a whole range of very interesting Dordogne related sites and articles. The Duke also has a nice list of Dordogne related books and dvd's.
Anyone with a Dordogne related web site, or articles can send them to the Duke of Dordogne and if appropriate it will be posted.
Keep your eye on this site, it's definitely worth a bookmark.

More info: http://www.dukeofdordogne.com/

Get your web site working for you. Guaranteed results

2008-10-17T06:17:00.000-07:00

Is your Internet Marketing in shambles? Does anyone know how to find your site? Need more targeted traffic? We can help!
There are 1000's of buisness owners in the Dordogne trying to run their buisness off the internet.Having a nice web site promoting your business is extremely important, but, unless it is high on the search engines, so that potential customers can actually find your site, it's pretty much useless, a bit like having a nice sports car, but no petrol.The average person will spend on average about 600 Euro for a web site, 200 Euro per year for domain and hosting, 150 on advertising costs, and lot's of free time but most people do not spend any time or money on having their site optimized.
Anyone serious about a meaningful online business presence needs Search Engine Optimization Services also referred to as SEO Services . With millions of web sites designed and published everyday in all kind of languages and topics, a long term and sustainable internet marketing strategy is crucial. There is no doubt that the following statement is true: An optimized web site, with SEO web design in mind, generates more internet traffic thus driving more leads, phone calls and sales which translate in revenue.
Have your site optimized now, and start making your site work for you, rather than you working for your site.

For more info visit: www.complete-seo.com

Dordogne Link and Article Directory

2008-09-14T16:14:00.000-07:00

Dordogne Link Directory is a link directory for all and any Dordogne related links. Add your link 100% FREE, all we ask for is a link back to our site.
This directory is a very good way to advertise your business, and get your link seen by potential customers world wide 24 / 7 / 365

For everyone that is serious about having their site completely optimized for the search engines, there is "Premium Dordogne Sites"

Key facts and for the Dordogne figures from 1 March 2007

over 3.1 million tourists
Average length of stay (all accommodation): 10 days
Representing almost 31 million nights' accommodation
A direct turnover of at least 980 million euros
Over 6,000 permanent jobs in tourism (6900 in July & Aug.)

Tourism in the Dordogne represents over 31% of the local economy

More facts and figures.
77% booked part of their vacation online. (airline, ferry, rental car etc)
93% of visitors researched the area online before visiting.
71 % of visitors booked accommodation online

5 years ago, these figures would have all been below 30%, and 10 years ago they would have all been below 3%, however, in 3 year time they will ALL be above 90%
These figures show that anyone serious about running a business, must make the most from the internet.

For more info visit: http://www.dordognelinkdirectory.com/

Please forward this to everyone you know in the Dordogne, they will thank you for it.

Lascaux has 6 Months

2008-07-12T19:37:00.000-07:00

Experts believe that up to half of the prehistoric art in the Lascaux caves is at risk. Efforts to combat a fungal invasion have been unsuccessful

Unesco, the world cultural body, has threatened to humiliate France by placing the Lascaux caves – known as the "Sistine Chapel of prehistory" – on its list of endangered sites of universal importance.
The Unesco world heritage committee, meeting this week in Quebec, has given the French government six months to report on the success of its efforts to save the Lascaux cave paintings in Dordogne from an ugly, and potentially destructive, invasion of grey and black fungi.

At the same time, a scientific committee appointed by the French government has conceded that an elaborate treatment with a new fungicide in January failed to stop the mould advancing through one part of the caves.

An independent pressure group of scientists and historians claims that up to half of the startlingly beautiful, 17,000-year-old images of bison, horses, wild cattle and ibex are now threatened by the fungal invasion – the second of its kind in eight years.

The heritage committee warned France this week that it will consider placing Lascaux on its list of imperilled cultural and natural sites of global significance unless progress is made by next February. The committee requested France to open Lascaux – closed to the public since 1963 – to a visit by independent experts. It also advised France to commission an "impact study" of all past, and possible future, actions in the caves since the first fungal invasion in 2001-02.

There are already 31 sites on the Unesco "List of World Heritage in Danger", including such treasures as the ancient Buddha statues of the Bamiyan valley in Afghanistan, partly destroyed by the Taliban. Only one of the existing, officially threatened sites is in western Europe – the architectural heritage of the Dresden-Elbe valley in eastern Germany, site of a planned motorway. A decision by the Unesco committee to list Lascaux as "endangered" would, therefore, be a severe embarrassment to France. Unesco would, in effect, be telling Paris that it can no longer be trusted to manage one of the world's most important historical and cultural treasures.

Officials from the French government's department of historic monuments and experts from all over the world have been quarrelling for years over the best way to preserve the Lascaux paintings. Some experts have accused the French authorities of a series of blunders, including a change in the air-conditioning system in 2000, the use of high-powered lights in the caves and allowing too many "special" visits.

An independent body, the International Committee for the Protection of Lascaux, infuriated Paris by asking Unesco to intervene last September. Laurence Léauté-Beasley, president of the committee, was jubilant yesterday. "The requirements placed upon France [by Unesco] are significant and strong," she said. "France will now have to answer to the world community for actions they have taken in the past and will take in the future. Lascaux's management must now operate in a spirit of transparency."

The French authorities initially denied that the Lascaux paintings themselves had been attacked by the second fungal invasion. They later admitted to some blotching on the paintings but no lasting damage. The independent protection committee, citing information from experts who have visited the caves, insist that some of the images have been irreparably blurred or that their colours have faded.

Mme Léauté-Beasley said: "Upwards of 50 per cent of the caves' ... art is disappearing under an incursion of black spots, some as large as human hands, triggered by the use of high intensity lights and excess human presence inside the cave."

On Thursday night, the French authorities admitted a setback. A treatment with fungicide in January appeared to have been successful at first but the black and grey blotches are now spreading once again across one part of the paintings, according to an official statement.

A committee of international experts, appointed by Paris after the first fungal attack in 2001, announced that the new treatment had been "very satisfactory" in one part of the caves, known as the "room of the bulls". The spread of fungal blotches had resumed, however, in the "right-hand part of the caverns".

Marie-Anne Sire, the head curator of Lascaux, told the French news agency AFP that the news was disappointing but progress was being made. Studies had revealed that the air which used to circulate in the caves had become immobile. This might explain the fungal outbreaks – and to offer a possible solution, she said.

The paintings were discovered by chance in September 1940. The 600 images of aurochs, wild horses, bison and ibexes are regarded as among the finest cave paintings in the world.

Visions of the past

The Lascaux paintings are in a cave on the left bank of the river Vézère, a tributary of the Dordogne. They include depictions of ibexes facing off, and a "unicorn" chasing a herd of horses. It is thought that they were painted between 15,000 and 17,000 years ago by hunter-gathering people who crushed minerals to create red, ochre, brown and black paints.

The paintings were discovered accidentally by four teenagers in September 1940. After a visit to the caves, the Cubist artist Pablo Picasso declared: "We have invented nothing." The caverns were closed to the public in 1963 to protect them from just the kind of fungal infections that have appeared over the past eight years. In 1983, a complete life-sized facsimile of the caves and paintings – Lascaux Two – was opened nearby for visitors.

By John Lichfield in Paris
Saturday, 12 July 2008

Our recommended accommodation to visit Lascaux

B&B Ferme de Tayac : www.fermedetayac.com Lovely B&B in a 12th Century former farmhouse / monastery opposite the fortified church of St. Martin.
Ferme de Tayac is just 25 minutes from Lascaux

History of Tayac, Les Eyzies de Tayac

2008-07-08T06:31:00.000-07:00

Tayac, the tiny but very picturesque village just 10 min. walk from the center of Les Eyzies is often overlooked by the majority of visitors passing through Les Eyzies.
Up untill the early 1900's Les Eyzies de Tayac was simply known as "Tayac". Tayac is more than 600 years older than Les Eyzies, and one of the oldest in the Dordogne region.
Tayac is historically extremely rich, it was not just the roaming grounds of our Prehistoric ancestors, but the Celts , Romans and Gauls all left their markings on the area.

In the early 12th century 6 Monks from the Monastery of Paunat were travelling between Monasteries when one of the Monks became very ill, they set up camp in Tayac near a water source. The monk was dieing, but miraculously healed after drinking the water from the "Tayac Source". To the Monks of Paunat this was a "Sign" and round about 1123 they started building the magnificent and fortified church of Tayac, they called it "St Martin".
At the same time, the Monks of Paunat started working the land in this lush Vezere valley, they built the farmhouse / monastery, which is now "Ferme de Tayac" that has been completely renovated, and is now a lovely B&B opposite the church.
For hundreds of years the Monks lived here and worked the lands, bit by bit houses were built against the rock.
The water from the "Tayac Source" was taken to other surrounding Monasteries, for it's healing powers, Tayac was thriving.
Two centuries later, things took a turn, wars were breaking out, armies were constantly attacking areas and strongholds. Religion and all that went with it lost it's power, and very slowly the life in and around Tayac became what it is today. St. Martin still stands proud, and is without doubt the nicest Fortified Church in the Perigord, the "Tayac Source" is still there, although no longer in use.

During construction for a railroad in 1868, a rock shelter in a limestone cliff was uncovered. Near the back of the shelter, an occupation floor was recognized, and when excavated, it revealed the remains of four adult skeletons, one infant, and some fragmentary bones. The Link between Prehistoric Man and Modern Man had been found in Tayac.

Recommended accommodation in Les Eyzies de Tayac:

B&B Ferme de Tayac : www.fermedetayac.com Lovely B&B in a 12th Century former farmhouse / monastery opposite the fortified church of St. Martin

Cro Magnon Experience

2008-07-05T06:41:00.000-07:00

Why does Walking Dordogne have the most unique, and exciting trips and tours?. It's because YOU decide what you would like to do, see or visit.
Again they have listened to their customers, and thanks to all your feedback they have created yet another unique experience. I say experience, because it is just that, it's not a trip or a tour, Walking Dordogne is giving you the chance to experience what it was like to be a Cro Magnon about 35.000 years ago.

You will spend 3 days and 2 nights living as a Cro Magnon, you will sleep in (a) real prehistoric cave(s), you will be dressed in clothes made of hide and fur just like a real Cro Magnon, you will fish using a traditional (made by yourself ) fishing harpoon, you will have to find and prepare your food with tools made by yourself, you will be taught how to make your own fire, and how to survive using the same methods our ancestors used 1000's of years ago. You will hunt and gather food as a team. This is the closest you will ever get to basics, and you will be talking about this experience for the rest of your life... Guaranteed !!

More Info:

You will be stripped of ALL modern day mod cons, and will start the experience with only the Cro Magnon clothes we supply you with.

Your "home" for 3 days and 2 nights will be in caves situated in 30 Hectares of (private) rugged land with the Vezere River running through it.

Your "Guide" will teach you everything you will need to know, and more, on how to "become" and survive as a Cro Magnon.

You will hunt, fish and gather food, but the hunting will be symbolic, NO real animals will be killed, all the animals will be fake, but you will still have to find and hunt them, and you will be supplied with the real stuff ( venison, wild boar, rabbit and pigeon) depending on what fake animals you kill. The fish however will be real, but limited to one fish per person per day, thats if you can catch them.

You will be taught everything about our ancestors the Cro Magnon, why and how they settled in this region, and putting an end to the Neanderthal existence.

This experience is ideal for the whole family, but there is a minimum age of 12 for the kids. (younger if you book as a whole group of 6+ ) The groups will be a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8.

This experience is not suitable for vegetarians.

This experience will be for April, May, June, September and October

For more info: www.walkingdordogne.com/wdnews
or the official website
http://www.walkingdordogne.com/

Your home for 3 days and 2 nights

Les Eyzies Info Site

2008-06-18T09:40:00.000-07:00

An excellent and very informative new website has been launched by de Paulus and Dordogne Design, that promotes Les Eyzies and the surrounding area.

History, Towns & Villages, Tourist Attractions, Useful info and lots more, make this a very nice site.

They have added an excellent "Photo Gallery" of some of Les Eyzies and Dordogne's main spots, this is definitely worth a look.

There is also a Free link exchange directory, for anyone with a Dordogne related buisness or website.

And, why not send a Les Eyzies de Tayac Ecard to your Friends & Family, you can do it from thewebsite

For more info visit: http://www.leseyzies-tourist.info/

Fishing Holiday in the Dordogne

2008-05-25T06:48:00.000-07:00

The Dordogne is without doubt the nicest and most diverse region in France, famous for the stunning scenery, Prehistoric caves and dwellings, Medieval towns & villages, fortified castles and strongholds, Bastides, and list goes on and on.. Ooohhh and let's not forget the friendly people, great food, excellent wine and all the activities you can imagine... the word "bored" does not exist in the Dordogne Dictionary.

Fishing is very popular in France, and there is no better place to fish, relax and enjoy life, than at Sweet Chestnut Lake.

The lake is situated midway between the large towns of Limoges, Perigueux and Angouleme, approximately a 50 minute drive from each. We are just below the Limousin border in the very desirable department of the Dordogne.
The lake nestles in attractive woodland, 3 km’s north of Saint Saud Lacoussiere a small and attractive village with a few shops, a couple of bars and 2 character hotels. The towns of Nontron, Cussac, Chalus and Thiviers all have supermarkets and are each only a 15 minute drive

Sweet Chestnut Lake.

A beautiful stream and spring fed mature lake of just under 4 acres, 200 metres long and 70 metres wide. Depths vary from 1 metre, where the stream enters, to up to 5 metres at the dam end.

The lake has a certificate of Private Status awarded by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, which wwas secured in 2007. This means anglers do not need to buy any form of licence, there are no seasonal restrictions and fishing is permissible 24 hours a day.

Levels are always maintained in the lake by the incoming streams and also by springs that can be seen bubbling from the lake bed. In the severe drought in France, in summer 2006, when many lakes actually dried up, sweet chestnut lake retained it’s full height

The lake bed has a combination of hard areas and silt, and there is no significant weed or snags.

Half of the lake has lovely flat grassed banks, level with the waters edge. The remaining half is left more undisturbed as a wild life haven, but we have created access points for anglers between the trees, ideal for stalking.

The lake is surrounded by native woodland . The predominant tree species being Sweet Chestnut and Oak with Birch, Alder, Poplar and Willow also in abundance. Beneath the tree canopy is a profusion of other native vegetation, including Gorse and Broom, Alder Buckthorn and Bracken. Orchids have been seen growing in the shade of the trees.

It is altogether a very healthy environment.

The Lake

Fish Stocks at Sweet Chestnut Lake.

In November 2006 and early January 2007 the lake was stocked with half a ton of 'Royale' strain
Carp, from 20lbs to over 40lb's, supplied by premier french fish dealer Simon Horton. These
These big framed fish, mostly mirrors, are gorgeous specimens and have already made huge
weight gains in their first year. We now have a good head of mid 30’s and 40’s.

In January 2007 6 catfish were introduced, including 3 x 30lb'ers and one of 42lb.The Cats
have settled in very well and have put on 1lb a month since their stocking. The largest in the
lake is now over 50lb.

Original Fish Stocks

Sweet Chestnut Lake has not been emptied for over 20 years and currently supports a healthy
range of fish species. These include original Carp, Tench, Pike, Zander, Chub, Perch, Roach,
Pumpkinseed and wild Trout. The lake is free of Poisson Chat and problem Crayfish.

The lake contains at least 150 original carp, probably quite a few more. These are predominantly
commons and some of the specimens may be over 35 years old. In late Spring 2007 we
counted 145 originals basking in the sun on the surface of the lake. The biggest carp recorded
from the original stock is a 30lb 13oz mirror to a Dutch angler. The majority of these fish are
doubles but some long lean 20lb+ mirrors and commons were banked in 2007 by our customers.

With favourable weather conditions and good angling they are very much a ‘Runs Water’with
plenty of carp of all sizes.

ACCOMMODATION.

The apartment itself is contained within the main house and has recently been refurbished and decorated to a high standard. It is a spacious self-contained, first floor open-plan apartment with a small well equipped kitchen,including a larder fridge, separate bedroom* and en-suite bathroom with English toilet and shower.

The accommodation is situated on the lake side, less that 10 metres from the water’s edge. Access is by way of an external stairway with a small viewing balcony and french doors to the living/dining area.

Outside the apartment exclusive to our guests, there is a lovely area with a stone barbeque, table, chairs and parasol, ideal for sitting out and relaxing. Below this, accessed by natural steps, on the lake’s edge, is a hardstanding which can also be used and you can even fish from here if you like.

The Fishery
The fishery is primarily run as a fly and survive or a drive and survive venue with anglers sleeping in the bivvies provided. The lake size ideally lends itself to exclusive use, for parties of 3 to 4 carp anglers fishing at any one time. Rods, Pods, Double-bivvies, Bedchairs, Chairs, Landing-nets, Unhooking-mats, Weigh-slings, Scales, Stoves, Water Container and Insulated Mugs are included in the package. Bait, including boilies, pellets and freshly prepared particles are available on site.

All our guests will have exclusive use of the apartment and facilities and we can on request provide a fully made up double bed in the bedroom of the apartment at an additional charge. A food package is also available if required:

Breakfast: choice of full English or continental
Lunch: choice of filled baguettes or sandwiches
Evening Meal: two courses - freshly cooked dishes from the menu
Coffee, tea and water included
All meals can be delivered to your swim or served in the apartment.

For Booking enquiries, and up to date info about Sweet Chestnut Lake Fishing Holidays Please visit the official web site at:

www.sweetchestnutlake.co.uk/

Certified guide to historic Vezere Valley

2008-05-18T18:42:00.000-07:00

Bart Vranken
Guide Interprete National

La Combe 24620 Les Eyzies France
tel. : +33.(0)5.53.35.56.27 mob. : +33.(0)6.83.29.59.45
e-mail : bvranken@aol.com

0 30.01.1961 St. Amandsberg Belgium

Degrees in Prehistory, History, Art-history and Philosophy
(Chicago Art Institute – U.S., Rijksuniversiteit Gent –
Belgium, Universite de Bordeaux 1 – France).

“Guide Interprete National” Prehistory, History, Art-history,
Licence-card no : G.N. 02.24.09 Archeology, Architecture,
Landscapes, Nature.
Guide, Interpreter, Lecturer.
Independent and autonomous :
Nederlands, English, no URSSAF : 240 266393362
Francais, Deutsch. no SIRET : 389 314 360 00022

Duration, means of transport, themes and sites of your excursion
can be customized to your wishes.

Ref. : “Finally, my particular thanks to historian Bart Vranken for
his invaluable insights, and for his companionship while tramping
through little-known and neglected ruins of the Perigord.”
Michael Crichton, in “Timeline” : Acknowledgments, p. 446.

Dordogne Design, Putting Dordogne on the web.

2008-03-19T19:50:00.001-07:00

http://www.dordognedesign.com/

We specialize in web sites for the Dordogne region. We know how extremely difficult it is to get your name or business onto the search engines. We do not just design web sites, we help you get your site seen by potential customers from around the world.

Designing a web site is the easiest part, getting people to find your site amongst the more than 92 Billion!! (indexed by google in 2006) sites can be tricky and very expensive.
I have designed more than 20 Dordogne related sites to help advertise your web site after it has been launched.

Let Dordogne Design put you on the web, can you afford not to?

Here are some stats that show the importance of a web site:

Key facts and figures from 1 March 2007

Over 3.1 million tourists

Average length of stay (all accommodation): 10 days

Representing almost 31 million nights’ accommodation

A direct turnover of at least 980 million euros

Over 6,000 permanent jobs in tourism (6900 in July & Aug.)

Tourism in the Dordogne represents over 31% of the local economy

More facts and figures.

77% booked part of their vacation online. (airline, ferry, rental car etc)

93% of visitors researched the area online before visiting.

71 % of visitors booked accommodation online

5 years ago, these figures would have all been below 30%, and 10 years ago they would have all been below 3%, however, in 3 year time they will ALL be above 90%

These figures show the importance of a web site, and no one can design, host, advertize and optimize your dordogne related site better than Dordogne Design .
Dordogne Design, owned by de Paulus who knows how to put the Dordogne and your site / buisness on the web.
With more than 20 Dordogne related web sites that are already high on the mayor Search Engines list are ready to advertise your site.
Advertising a site designed by Dordogne Design on all our parent sites is FREE, saving you hundreds of Euro's, and focusing only on the Dordogne which will attract only people that are searching for Dordogne related sites.

Dordogne Design does not design web sites for a living, which means the prices are as low as you will ever find, and your web site is a de Paulus Project, which means he will always be there for you whenever you need help or advice.
Get in touch with Dordogne Design and see what they can do for you... Can you afford not to?

www.dordognedesign.com

Museums in the Dordogne

2008-02-26T15:42:00.000-08:00

Wherever you are in the Dordogne, you will be near a Museum

Atelier Musee des Tisserands et de la Charentaise
Contained within the Castle of Varaignes, this working weaving museum and the museum of the Bandiat - Tardoire valleys offers a glimpse of local life in the 19th century. Located at Varaignes.
Tel: 05 53 56 35 76

Ateliers Musee
A mineral and gem stone museum found at the foot of the Castelnaud Castle. Located in Vezac.
Tel: 05 53 28 35 78

Chateau de Beynac et Cazenac
The Beynac and Cazenac Castle occupies a dominant position on the rocky cliffs overlooking the Dordogne river. Reconstructed by Lord Beynac it's architecture dates from the 13th century.
Tel: 05 53 29 50 40

Chateau de Biron
The Biron Castle dates from the 12th century. It was one of the 4 Perigord baronies and owned by the Gontaut-Biron family for 8 centuries. Located in Biron near Monpazier.
Tel: 05 53 63 13 39

Chateau de Bourdeilles
Features a fortress from the 13th - 15th centuries. Offers an interesting collection of cupboards, carpets, wardrobes from the 16th and 17th centuries. Open throughout the year. Located near Brantome.
Tel: 05 53 03 73 36

Chateau de Bruzac
The ruins of the Bruzac Castle can be found between st Pierre de Cole and St Jean.
Tel: 05 53 03 70 74

Chateau de Castelnaud
This reconstructed castle overlooks the Dordogne and faces the Chateau Marqueyssac. Built in the 12th century the Castle experienced British rule from 1259 -1273. See website for more details (in French).
Tel: 05 53 31 30 00

Chateau de Chabans
The Chabans Castle has been owned by some of the most prominent families of Dordogne. The castle dates back to the 15th century. It played a role in the Resistance movement when Jacques Chaban-Delmas took his "nom de guerre" from the castle.
Tel: 05 53 51 70 60

Chateau de Duras
Castle dated from the middle age offers an architecture mixing middle-age and the 18th century. Located in Duras, Lot et Garonne (47).
Tel: 05 53 83 77 32

Chateau de Fenelon
At Ste. Mondain between Sarlat and Soillac (24). An opportunity to visit a furnished Chateaux with it's antique furniture and historical architecture. Pets are not permitted.
Tel: 05 53 29 81 45 Fax: 05 53 29 88 99

Chateau de Fratteau
The Fratteau Castle dominates domain of the new prison. Built in the 12th and 17th century it has preserved chimneys from the 15th and 16th century. Now also home to potters. Located at the exit of Neuvic sur l'Isle.
Tel: 05 53 81 11 02

Chateau de Hautefort
A classical castle built in the 9th century on a rocky spur. It once belonged to the viscounts of Limoges and features the Long Tower, The Palm Tower and The Prison Tower. Located in Hautefort. See website for more details.
Tel: 05 53 50 51 23

Chateau de Jumilhac le Grand
The castle was originally built in the 13th century and used to act as a line of defence during many incursions. Well known for its unique roofs that were built around the 1600's. Located at Jumilhac Le Grand.
Tel: 05 53 52 42 97

Chateau de L'Herm
The Herm Castle was built at the end of the 15th century but was abandoned. Today it is going through a period of restauration. See website for details. Located at Rouffignac Saint Cernin de Reilhac.
Tel: 05 53 05 46 61

Chateau de Lanquis
A combination of architectural styles from palatial renaissance to a medieval fort created this elegant chateau. Well know for its chimneys. Open all year except from 15 January to 15 February.
Tel: 05 53 63 65 00

Chateau de Mareuil
The Mareuil Castle formed one of the four baronies of Perigord. Owned by the Talleyrand family, it comprised an effective defensive system. A visit to the castle takes one back to the 100 year war and is an excellent tribute to Napoleon. At Mareuil.
Tel: 05 53 60 99 85

Chateau de Monbazillac
This 26th century chateau is home to a museum dedicated to wine-making, arts and local traditions, 17th century perigord furniture and protestanism. The 4 ha parc is open to the public. Open throughout the year. Call for times.
Tel: 05 53 63 65 00

Chateau de Montfort
The Montfort castle has been razed to the ground 4 times. Once in 1254 by Simon of Montfort, once during the 100 year war, once under Louis the 11th and finally under Henry the 4th. Restauration work has been underway since the 19th century.
Tel: 05 53 28 57 80

Chateau de Neuvic
The Neuvic Castle was built in 1520 along the banks of the Isle. The architecture shows the transiton from Medieval Time to the Renaissance. Located at Neuvic sur l'Isle.
Tel: 05 53 80 86 65

Chateau de Puyferrat
The Puyferrat Castle was built in the 16th century and features a totally covered walkway that offers a panoramic view onto the neighbouring countryside. A chapel that hosts the family vault was built in 1825. Located near St Astier.
Tel: 05 53 07 86 26

Chateau de Puyguilhem
The Puyguilhem Castle was built during the First Renaissance and is a fine example of a Francoise 1st castle. See website for more details. Located near the village of Villars.

Chateau de Puymartin
The Puymartin Castle is be found between Sarlat and Les Eyzies. Occupied by the English in 1358 the castle has managed to preserve its furniture, carpets, paintings and other works for over 5 centuries.
Tel: 05 53 59 29 97

Chateau de Sanxet
Located 3km west of Monbazillac, they offer a prestige car museum. They also rent rooms for receptions.
Tel: 05 53 58 37 46

Chateau de Sauveboeuf
16th Century castle, classified as a national monument. Displays a Louis the 18th style. Located in Aubas near Montignac.
Tel: 05 53 51 89 46

Chateau des Bernadiers
Built on the side of a rocky slope around a high tower with views dominating Nizonne. This castle was no stranger to the 100 year war. The counts d'Aydie increased the castle and built terraces. Located at Champeaux et la Chapelle Pommier.
Tel: 05 53 60 38 59

Chateau des Bories
Constructed on the banks of a river, the Bories Castle is an example of pure classical Perigourdian architecture. The castle dates from the 15th century. Located at Antonne et Trigonant near Perigueux.
Tel: 05 53 06 00 01

Chateau des Milandes
At Castlenaud-la-Chapelle. A French chateau located in the heart of the Dordogne countryside with an exhibition relating to the life of Josephine Baker. There is also wildlife to discover on the castle grounds.
Tel: 05 53 59 31 21 Fax: 05 53 29 17 33

Chateau et Jardins de Losse
At Thonac (24). An opportunity to discover this 15th century castle and gardens of Losse.Take a tour around the moat and renaissance hall, which exhibit fine 16th & 17th century tapestries.
Tel: 05 53 50 80 08 Fax: 05 53 50 80 08

Chateau l'Eveque
Located on the D939 north of Perigueux. The Bishops Castle was where Saint Vincent de Paul was ordained priest in the 1600's.
Tel: 05 53 04 66 84

Chateau Saint Michel de Montaigne
The Montaigne Castle dates back to the 15th century. This is where Saint Michael wrote his famous essays from. Located at Saint Michel de Montaigne.
Tel: 05 53 58 63 69 Fax: 05 53 58 63 93

Chateau Varaignes
It's facade boasts a mix of Medieval and Renaissance styles from the 13th and 16th century. The village bought the castle in 1965 and won an award for the restoration of the castel. Located in Varaignes.
Tel: 05 53 56 35 76

Cloiture des Recollets
The House of Wine on Quai Salvette in Bergerac. This 17th century "Cloiture" exhibits the historical link between Bergerac wine and the history of Bergerac. Open June to September.
Tel: 05 53 63 57 55

Ecomusee de la Noix
Walnut farm and museum located in the heart of the Perigord noir region. Documentary film in English shown. There is also a shop selling the local farm produce from walnut cakes to walnut wine.
Tel: 05 53 59 69 63 Fax: 05 53 28 59 34

Ecomusee de la Truffe
Contains plenty of information regarding truffles. Located at Sorges.
Tel: 05 53 05 90 11

Institute du Tabac
A tobacco research institute that has an extensive collection of different types of tobacco products. The institute opens its doors to the public in the summer. Located at Domaine de la Tour on route de Sainte-Alvére in Bergerac.
Tel: 05 53 63 66 00

Le Musee Costi
A collection of works by the Greek sculptor Constantin Papachristopolous. Exhibited in a 12th century crypt in the Saint Jacques presbytery in Bergerac. Ask at the Mayor's office for more details.
Tel: 05 53 74 66 66.

Le Musee du Perigord
On Cours Tourny, Perigueux. An interesting presentation of fine arts and french archeology. There is also a zoological section.
Tel: 05 53 06 40 70 Fax: 05 53 06 40 71

Le Musee du Thot
The Thot Museum comprises an animal park and an exhibition centre. In the park one can see species of animal that closely resemble those that historically could be found there. Located at Thonac.
Tel: 05 53 50 70 44

Musee Atelier du Trompe-L'Oeil et du Decor Paint
The Trompe-L'Oeil and Decorative Paint Museum is unique in Europe. It is possible to see demonstrations of work in progress. Located at 5 rue Emile Combes in Perigueux.
Tel: 05 53 09 84 40

Musee d'Histoire Locale
The local history museum in Villefranche de Lonchat contains portraits, costumes and more. Located at Villefranche de Lonchat near Saint Michel de Montaigne.
Tel: 05 53 81 21 39

Musee de Cognac
A museum dedicated to manufacturing Cognac. The process is clearly explained and the tools clearly displayed. Located in St Aulaye.
Tel: 05 53 90 81 33

Musee de l'Or
Located in the basement of the Castle of Jumilhac le Grand. The museum takes one back to Gaul times when gold was mined in the region.
Tel: 05 53 52 55 43

Musee de la Carte Postale Ancienne du Perigord
The Historical Postcards Museum of Perigord offers more than 33 000 exhibits. Founded by Henry Brives. Located at Saint Pardoux la Riviere.
Tel: 05 53 60 76 10

Musee de la Ferblanterie
Offers more than 1000 white & galvanised iron exhibits dating from the 18th century till today. At La Tour Blanche near Riberac.
Tel: 05 53 91 11 98

Musee de la Medicine
This medical museum in Hautefort, is housed in what was known as a poorhouse that housed local destitutes. The building was finished in 1740 and now hosts the tourist office, a weavers workshop and the medicam museum. See website for more details.
Tel: 05 53 50 40 27

Musee de la Paleontologie et de la Vie Sauvage
Includes 3000 articles of paleonthology covering 700 million years. The Musee de la Vie Sauvage boasts more than 1000 stuffed exhibits. Open June to September. Located at 9 rue de la Republic in La Bugue sur Vezere.
Tel: 05 53 08 28 10

Musee de la Pierre Taillee
This sculptured stone museum displays stomes from the Paleothique and Neolithique periods.
Tel: 05 53 60 99 85

Musee de la Prehistoire.
Offres visitors an original projection room amongst the rocks. Offer various examples of sculptured rocks and Magdalenian art. Located at Teyjat.
Tel: 05 53 56 30 29

Musee de la Speleologie
The museum of potholing features a display of potholing tools, the history of potholing and information about the way caves are formed. Open June to September. Located at Tayac near Les Eyzies.
Tel: 05 53 06 97 15

Musee des Arts et Traditions Populaires
The Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions in Mussidan assembled this collection of artifacts from yesteryear including furniture and other objects.
Tel: 05 53 81 23 55

Musee des Records
Situated in the "salle polyvalent", it offers a light hearted history of the songs that featured for the town's annual August festival. Located at La Tour Blanche near Riberac.
Tel: 05 53 91 11 98

Musee des Records
Situated in the "salle polyvalent", it offers a light hearted history of the songs that featured for the town's annual August festival.
Tel: 05 53 91 11 98

Musee des Rois d'Araucanie
The Museum of the King of Araucanie celebrates Antoine de Tounens who left for Patagonia in 1860 where he declared himself king. He was expelled by the Chilean police in 1860. Medals and official documentation are on show. Located in Chourgnac near Sorge
Tel: 05 53 51 12 76

Musee du Foie Gras
Discover how geese and ducks are raised, how "Foie Gras" is processed and learn about how to prepare it. At place de Marechal Foch, Thiviers, Dordogne (24).
Tel: 05 53 55 12 50

Musee du Suaire
The relic of St Suaire is to be found in the Cadouin Abbey. Built in 1115, the abbey has recently been declared a world heritage site. Located in Cadouin.
Tel: 05 53 63 36 28

Musee du Tabac
A tobacco museum located at Place du Feu in Bergerac. Displays a large selection of tobacco paraphernalia. Open in season.
Tel: 05 53 63 04 13

Musee du Ver a Soie
An interesting and educational silkworm museum. Located at Saint Just near Riberac.
Tel: 05 53 90 73 60

Musee du Vin de la Tonnellerie et de la Batellerie
A museum dedicated to the making of wine barrels and related objects. Located at 5 rue des Conferences in Bergerac.
Tel: 05 53 57 80 92

Musee Eugene le Roy
To be found in the old Saint Jean l'Evangeliste Hospital. It is dedicated to the writings of Eugene Le Roy who died in the city in 1907. Displays his writings, photos, clothing and other souvenirs. Located in Montignac.
Tel: 05 53 51 82 60

Musee Fossiles
The Fossil Museum features a 5.5m high and 11m long metalique sculpture of a Tyrannosaurus-Rex amongst other exhibits. Located in Peyzac le Moustier near Montignac.
Tel: 05 53 50 81 02

Musee Gallo Romain Vesunna
At Rue 26eme RI, Perigueux. Conceived by Jean Nouvel, this museum presents one of the most significant archeological remains in Aquitaine.
Tel: 05 53 53 00 92

Musee Militaire du Perigord
The Perigord Military Museum is at 32 Rue des Farges, Perigueux. Presents over 13000 pieces on French military history.
Tel: 05 53 53 47 36

Musee Napoleon
An opportunity to visit the Museum of Napoleon and to view his family history. Situated within the grounds of Chateau de la Pommerie in the heart of Cendrieux, Dordogne (24).
Tel: 05 53 03 24 03 Fax: 05 53 03 22 39

Musee National de Prehistoire
Offers an extremelly comprehensive and chronologically ordered exhibition covering the Paleolithic period. Located at Les Eyzies.
Tel: 05 53 06 45 45 Fax: 05 53 06 45 55

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Recommended accommodation in the Dordogne:

B&B Ferme de Tayac. Lovely B&B in a 12th Century former farmhouse / monastery situated ideally in the hart of the Vezere Valley and just 5 minutes from Les Eyzies, the Prehistoric Capital of the World
http://www.fermedetayac.com/

Exciting Les Eyzies 4 the kids

2007-12-15T12:40:00.000-08:00

As of September 2007 Walking Dordogne will be offering exciting day trips for the kids.
We have put together an exciting horse ride which will last for about two hours, followed by a spectaculer hike to explore a few caves, picnic on a real prehistoric rock ledge with stunning views. Total time is about 5-6 hours. Another option is the Canoe, Horse ride and Hike package. Suitable for ages 8+

For more information go to www.walkingdordogne.com

Cave of Lascaux

2007-12-14T20:34:00.000-08:00

Lascaux is the setting of a complex of caves in southwestern France famous for its cave paintings. The original caves are located near the village of Montignac, in the Dordogne département. They contain some of the most well-known (Upper Paleolithic) art, dating back to somewhere between 15,000 and 13,000 BCE. They consist mostly of realistic images of large animals, including aurochs, most of which are known from fossil evidence to have lived in the area at the time. They were added to UNESCO World Heritage Sites list in 1979.

HISTORY
The cave was discovered on 12 September 1940 by four teenagers, Marcel Ravidat, Jacques Marsal, Georges Agnel, and Simon Coencas, as well as Ravidat's dog, Robot. Public access was made easier after World War II. By 1955, the carbon dioxide produced by 1,200 visitors per day had visibly damaged the paintings. The cave was closed to the public in 1963 in order to preserve the art. After the cave was closed, the paintings were restored to their original state, and are now monitored on a daily basis. Rooms in the cave include The Great Hall of the Bulls, the Lateral Passage, the Shaft of the Dead Man, the Chamber of Engravings, the Painted Gallery, and the Chamber of Felines.

Lascaux II, a replica of two of the cave halls - the Great Hall of the Bulls and the Painted Gallery - was opened in 1983. Reproductions of other Lascaux artwork can be seen at the Centre of Prehistoric Art at Le Thot, France.

THE IMAGES

The cave contains nearly 2,000 figures. Many are too faint to discern, while others have deteriorated. Over 900 can be identified as animals, and 605 of these have been precisely identified. There are also many geometric figures. Of the animals, horses predominate, with 364 images. There are 90 paintings of stags. Also represented are cattle and bison, each representing 4-5% of the images. A smattering of other images include seven felines, a bird, a bear, a rhinoceros, and a human. Among the most famous images are four huge, black bulls in the Hall of the Bulls. There are no images of reindeer, even though that was the principal source of food for the artists.[1]

The four black bulls are the dominant figures among the 36 animals represented in the Hall of the Bulls. One of the bulls is 17 feet long -- the largest animal discovered so far in cave art. The bulls appear to be in motion.[2] The most famous section of this cave is the great hall of the bulls, where there are bulls, horses, and stags.

A painting referred to as "The Crossed Bison" and found in the chamber called the Nave is often held as an example of the skill of the Paleolithic cave painters. The crossed hind legs show the ability to use perspective in a manner that wasn't seen again until the 15th century.

Of the non-figurative images, one researcher has speculated that the painted dots are maps of the night sky, since the patterns correlate with various constellations.

Our recommended accommodation near Lascaux:

B&B Ferme de Tayac. Lovely B&B in a 12th Century former farmhouse / monastery situated ideally in the hart of the Vezere Valley and just 30 minutes from Lascaux http://www.fermedetayac.com/

Canoeing the Vezere

2007-12-12T19:19:00.000-08:00

Walking Dordogne has about 20 excellent walks in their Itinerary, varying from 3 hours to 10 hours, most walks can be combined with other walks to make them longer or shorter. Our walks are guaranteed to show you the REAL Dordogne, and take you to all the main highlights this region is famous for.

Canoeing the Vezere is an amazing experience. Riddled with caves, shelters, and dwellings, canoeing offers you an unforgettable experience.Chances are you will spot deer, wild boar, otters, buzzards and kingfishers.Why not combine walking and canoeing for an ultimate experience?.

To see the REAL Dordogne, vist: www.walkingdordogne.com

B&B Ferme de Tayac

2007-12-12T18:49:00.000-08:00

Ferme de Tayac. The most loved and talked about Bed and Breakfast in the Dordogne. Ferme de Tayac, a beautiful 12th century former farmhouse / monastery situated next to St. Martin, the fortified church of the lovely peaceful village Tayac, and 1km from Les Eyzies known as the “Prehistoric Capital” of the world.
For hundreds of years Ferme de Tayac was worked by the Monks, and with all of it’s authentic buildings,ruins, rooms carved into the rock, meter thick fortified walls and original oak beam construction, it’s no wonder that Ferme de Tayac is a much loved and talked about Bed and Breakfast.
The bedrooms at “Ferme de Tayac” are former Monks quarters, all with lovely peaceful views of the valley and the many Prehistoric dwellings in the cliffs rock face.
The Vezere valley in the “Black Perigord”,where Ferme de Tayac is situated is known to be the most beautiful region of France,and with more than 250 UNESCO sites, has earned title of being the Prehistoric Capital of the World.
Bed and Breakfast Ferme de Tayac is the ideal place to stay whilst exploring and enjoying everything this amazingly beautiful area has to offer. All the main attractions (and there are LOTS of them) are within 20 minutes from Ferme de Tayac, some are even in walking distance, and one of them is Ferme de Tayac.

Visit the official Ferme de Tayac web site : http://www.fermedetayac.com/

Read travellers reviews about Ferme de Tayac:

Exploring the REAL Dordogne

2007-12-12T18:33:00.000-08:00

Dordogne, also known as the Perigord is without a doubt one of the most interesting and diverse regions in the world. The Vezere Valley in the “Perigord Noir” is with it’s more than 250 UNESCO sites of interest, the undisputed “Prehistoric Capital of the World”. Prehistoric dwellings, caves, rock shelters and lots more, most of which are only accessible on foot. However, Dordogne has much more to offer than just relics from the Prehistoric era, castles, bastides, medieval towns & villages, all of these,and lots more, all in the stunning and amazing scenery the Dordogne is famous for, hills, cliffs, windy rivers, great weather, friendly locals, and lots more make the Dordogne one of the most interesting and exciting places in the world.

Walking Dordogne takes you to all the well kept secrets that are only accessible on foot. To see the “Real Dordogne” you will have to get off the roads, and on the tracks. Let us take you back, to the places our ancestors called “home” more than 260000 years ago.

For more info please visit http://www.walkingdordogne.com/

History of the Dordogne

2007-12-12T16:30:00.000-08:00

Quiet and tranquil now, the Dordogne region has had a tumultuous past. This history has left its mark all over the region, so before any visit to the region it is useful to have a brief understanding of the history of the area, so that the caves and dwellings,the castles and the bastides, the culture and the heritage, are set in context.

There are several significant stages to the history of the Dordogne region:

PREHISTORY

There is evidence across the region of the prehistoric activity, most clearly seen in the numerous cave paintings. The caves at Lascaux are perhaps the finest example anywhere, and date from approximately 15,000 years ago. But man had lived in the area for perhaps 400-500,000 years prior to this high point. Initially as Homo erectus, but he gave way later (100,000 years ago) to Neanderthal man, who was more capable at making tools.

The caves of the area provided ‘quality accommodation to these individuals trying to escape the cold of the last ice age, and also enabled them to hunt for reindeer and mammoths. It is likely that when the ice age ended, and the reindeer moved north, this first early period of semi-civilisation came to an end.

It was about 35,000 years ago that humans ‘as we know them’ arrived - homo-sapiens, as Cro-Magnon man. They co-existed with Nenderthal man for about 5,000 years. It was Cro-magnon man who brought hunting and painting skills to the region. This period, which lasted until approximately 10,000 years ago, was the period in which the paintings of Lascaux caves etc were created.

From that period, until 2500 years ago there were fundamental changes in lifestyle. Hunting gave way in part to raising cattle for food, and food-gathering gave way to agriculture and the planting of crops. Decorative pottery was made, and towards the end of this period copper implements were also made.

History of the Dordogne after 2000 BC - the Celts and the Romans

Life in the Dordogne continued to improve. Bronze implements were made, horses were trained and used for hunting, and more sophisticated dwellings were constructed from rock - there are many dolmens in the region that remain from this period.

The wheel was invented, and when used with animals that could pull carts, will have had a substantial impact on the lifestyle of early man. But meanwhile greater, more efficient civilisations were developing elsewhere and these wre to change the Dordogne (and the world) for ever.

The Celts moved across France and reached the area about 2500 years ago. Much more sophisticated than the inhabitants at that time, they were skilled at metalworking, and developed trade routes across France and Europe. They lived in towns, usually constructed on hilltops for defensive reasons, where a complex administrative function was established.

They created the first cities, including the city that is now Perigueux.

The Romans arrive in the Dordogne

The life of the celts - gauls as they were known now - was soon to be disrupted by the arrival of the Romans. 2,200 years ago, in 56 BC, they moved into the Dordogne under Publius Crassus, a lieutenant of Caesar, and rapidly conquered the gauls.

In AD 16 Aquitaine was born, as Aquitania, covering a large part of South West France. The fertile land rapidly attracted new Roman settlers, who brought ever more advanced agricultural techniques to the region, and constructed buildings, towns and cities that were very sophisticated.

The chief Roman towns in the region were at Perigueux and Cahors.

Romans also brought their language and culture to the Dordogne, and introduced the first vines to the region. The rich among them lived in splendid villas, at the centre of large farming complexes.

Numerous remains from the Roman period exist in the region, although not in the scale that they are found.

Vandals , Francs and Moors

Constant attacks on all fronts weakened the Roman empire, and these intensified after about 300 years of occupation. Various tribes from eastern europe invaded the region, constantly attempting to take the fertile lands from the Roman occupiers.

The Vandals and Visigoths were the most successful at displacing the Romans. Many of the fine villas and towns that had been established were destroyed, and new towns started to be developed with defensive walls and fortifications. There are many examples of fortified towns to be seen in the Dordogne region.

The vandals and visigoths had a short lived victory, because by the beginning of the 6th century they too were defeated by the Francs.

The Moors from the south were soon to follow, and took control of the area in the eighth century, before being themselves defeated. A tumultuous time of change in the Dordogne region of France, with Charlemagne expanding the boundaries further.

The Vikings then invaded from the north during the 10th century, burning villages and destroying everything else in their path as they moved along the Dordogne and Isle rivers.

The vikings too were eventually repelled. As part of the repulsion of the Vikings, four ‘baronies’ were established - Beynac, Biron, Mareuil and Bourdeilles. This provided the backdrop for much of what happened in the region over the following centuries, with powerful central families controlling much of the Dordogne.

By 1000 AD a number of towns that we still recognise had been established across the region.

The Middle Ages

During the Middle ages many of the bastide towns in the area were founded. Many are still in existence nowadays (see Towns’).

Eleanor of Aquitaine was next to cause problems in the area. She inherited much of Aquitaine, and married the King of France, Louis VII. But this marriage was annulled after 15 years, and Eleanor married Henry Plantagenet. Henry then became king of England, and a large part of France thus fell under English rule. Not surprisingly this caused some tensions! The problem was to cause rivalries that lasted hundreds of years. The problem was compounded when Eleanor and Henry had a troublesome son - Richard the Lionheart. When King Henry died, Richard inherited the throne of England and all its French lands.

In 1328, following the deaths of the 3 sons of Philippe le Bel, the French selected Philippe Count of Valois to be king, in place of Edward III. Edward III was the king of England and was also the nephew of the deceased French king.

Later, things got worse still, and in 1337 Philippe VI ordered that the lands of Aquitaine be taken from the English. In 1340 Edward III declared himself King of France. Thus the Hundred Years War began. During the Hundred Years war there were numerous ‘famous’ battles including the Battle of Agincourt in 1415. The war was all but lost for the French, and it was agreed that Henry V was the heir to the French throne. But then Henry V died unexpectedly, leaving only a baby as his heir.

Soon after the young Joan of Arc appeared on the scene and remotivated the French king - now Charles VII - and his armies. It was in 1451 at the Battle of Castillon the English were finally defeated (a battle now spectacularly recreated each year for the enjoyment of tourists).

The 16th century led to further troubles, with numerous sieges, battles and unlimited cruelty during the Wars of Religion (between the catholics and the protestants) that ravaged the region. Several massacres of entire towns took place, and much of the earlier heritage of the Dordogne was destroyed.

It was only in 1598, when the Edict of Nantes granted certain freedoms to the protestants, that the battles came to an end.

The 17th and 18th centuries

Across the whole of France the 17th and 18th centuries were an unsettled time.

Centuries of battles had weakened the region, the Black death was rampant, and there were many years in which the harvests were poor. Food shortages, price rises and falling wages all made life very difficult for the poor, while the rich appeared to get ever richer, based in part on a series of unpopular taxes. Meanwhile the region experienced enormous population growth, further compounding the problems.

It is hard to imagine the desperation of a people who can simply see no escape from the terrible poverty, the high mortality rate and the daily struggle to survive.

The final straw was the imposition of a heavy salt tax on the region, and many people were living in constant destitution, virtually enslaved to the landowners and state.

This poverty also encouraged bands of ‘pirates’ to cross the countryside, pillaging villages as they went. The villagers were especially aggrieved that the landowners, despite receiving large amounts of tax, were unable to prevent these attacks.

This was more than could be tolerated and in 1594 there was a peasant revolt, touching much of the region between Bergerac and Sarlat.

A small victory was obtained, with a slight lifting of the taxes, but the victory was short-lived and for many years there were frequent uprisings against the landowners, almost always met with excessive force and reprisals. The revolts usually pitted peasants armed with pitchforks and agricultural implements against much better armed forces, so the outcome was not surprising.

These uprisings continued more or less sporadically until the time of the French Revolution.

Revolution, Napoleon, and after

Things reached a head in 1789, although more in Paris than the rest of the country.

The French Revolution overturned the existing regime and led to a time of great troubles in France, known as the Great Terror, which lasted until 1794 with much death and witch-hunting. The moderate Girondins based in Bordeaux suffered greatly during these years.

Only 10 years later, in 1804, Napoleon had leapt to power and been crowned emperor, to enormous popular support from the people. His fame and reputation relied largely on his great victories in wars with neighbouring countries, but he also had great success with a new legal code, the Napoleonic Code, which is still the foundation of the modern French legal system.

Many people from the Dordogne region joined the armies of Napoleon, which continued to enjoy success until the disastrous march on Moscow in 1812. This defeat was followed by others and napoleon was finally removed at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815.

Poverty in the south-west of France increased still further, helped by the abolition of the slave trade which had formed an important part of Bordeaux revenues. But as the 19th century progressed some semblance of normality returned and the poverty levels decreased significantly.

Towards the end of the 19th century two new trends were seen that continue to this day. The first is tourism, and the second is rural depopulation. Unfortunately it took tourism another 100 years to catch up with the exodus of the young from the area, and to start to rebuild and reconstruct some of the long abandoned buildings and villages.

Finally it must be noted in tribute that many French from the region lost their lives at war during the 20th century, albeit that the battlefields were far away in northern France. Almost all villages in the Dordogne have a war memorial commemorating the young people of the region lost in the war.

The people of the Dordogne region also played an active role in the resistance movement during the second World War, and there are several locations that you will come across where there are memorials and tributes to these events.

Recommended accommodation in Les Eyzies de Tayac:

B&B Ferme de Tayac. Lovely B&B in a 12th Century former farmhouse / monastery situated ideally in the hart of the Vezere Valley and just 5 minutes from Les Eyzies, the Prehistoric Capital of the World
http://www.fermedetayac.com/