The Dordogne by Bike

The Dordogne region of France is well-known for its gastronomic heritage and exquisite culinary delicacies.

Truffles

The Dordogne has one of the most significant truffle trade centres in France. The "black diamond" truffle is expensive, rare, and highly demanded.

Strawberries

There are seven varieties of strawberries in the Perigord IGP group (Guarantee of Control and Certification). These delicious strawberries grow so well here due to the mild climate. You may even happen upon a strawberry festival in one of the villages or towns. It's also a very versatile fruit and can be used to make tarts, ice cream and salad with goat's cheese.

Walnuts

The walnuts of the Perigord come in four varieties and are interestingly named as "Corne", the rustic, "Marbot", the traditional, "Grandjean", the classic, and "Franquette" the desired. Growing walnuts in this region date back to the Cro-Magnon period, and they were even used as a form of currency in the Middle Ages. You will find them in salads, on pizza and in the ingredients for soaps and oil.

Cheese

The Cabécou of Périgord, a traditional soft goat milk cheese, is delicious in salads and even on pizza! The oldest cheese is the Trappe d'Echourgnac, which monks made in the region in 1868.

The local markets in the Dordogne are an absolute delight. You will find all the local specialities at these fantastic markets, from walnuts to cheese to truffles and wine. These are places where the locals meet and exchange gossip. This is a chance to lose yourself for an hour or so, sit in a terrace cafe and enjoy people watching, while the town or village comes to life.

We recommend fueling your ride with some local produce at these markets. Perhaps some artisan bread, cheese, and jam for a picnic lunch? Which should fit snugly in your pannier! If you are on your onward travel day, why not also purchase a gift for a loved one back home? Some locally crafted jewellery? A Dordogne-inspired item of clothing? Or maybe even a tiny piece of pottery that comes in many vibrant designs and colours?

The Dordogne Valley has 10 of the Plus Beaux Villages de France! Many of them are on hilltops, from which there are great views of the sparkling and tranquil river below.

Beynac

This remarkable village has steep cobbled lanes and, at the top, a medieval castle to explore, which has sweeping views across the river plain.

Domme

This bastide village, also on a hilltop, is endearingly beautiful. It was founded in 1283. Order a coffee, beer or local glass of wine as you sit on a terrace overlooking the view. You can also wander through its tiny streets and admire its medieval fortifications.

La Roque-Gageac

This village occupies a dramatic setting tucked under ochre-coloured cliffs and its main street parallel to the river. Due to its south-facing position, it has a micro-climate, and you will find palm and banana trees growing here!

Sarlat-Le-Canada

Ok, so this village is technically a town! One of the busier places in the area, but a wonderful place to stay or visit, with its honey-coloured architecture, secret squares and excellent market.