Provence West

Dordogne/Bordeaux

The Dordogne-Perigord-Bordeaux region of Southwestern France is one of the country’s most distinctive and most diverse.  Home to arguably the world’s most famous vintages, historic sites ranging from the Cro-Magnon era cave paintings at Lascaux to the numerous châteaux and perched villages lining the Dordogne river  to the city of Bordeaux itself, three times the capital of France (most recently during World War II, when government officials fled from the German invasions of Paris), as well as some of the finest examples of traditional French cuisine (think foie gras, truffles and Arachon oysters), the region has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.

Even the most novice wine aficionado recognizes the names Château Mouton Rothschild, St. Emilion, Médoc and Margaux, and the city of Bordeaux is generally thought of as the wine capital of the world.  Bordeaux is also known for its beautiful architecture, including the spectacular Esplanade des Quinconces and the Grand Théatre, medieval churches, museums and riverfront restaurants and shops.  Visitors to the département of the Dordogne, the third largest in France, will marvel at the incredible diversity of the landscape, with its limestone cliffs and plateaux, rolling hills covered with vineyards, and dense forests.  The sense of history is overwhelming…the cave paintings at Lascaux date from 40,000 BC, ruins originating from the Roman occupation of the Perigord, medieval hilltop villages and fortresses, and Renaissance manor houses and chapels.

And the food…it is no surprise that in a region known for its exceptional wines, the epicurean specialities hold their own as well.  Foie gras, confit du canard, truffles, Atlantic shellfish, cheeses and chocolates dominate the region’s menus and pair nicely with those amazing locally produced, yet world-renowned, vintages.   With its endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, golf and watersports, the region also offers a broad selection of physical activities to challenge even the most dedicated sports enthusiast.

Experience the incomparable Dordogne-Perigord-Bordeaux region of southwestern France—we’re sure its history, culinary delights and geography will captivate you!