Things to Do in the Dordogne from Le Petit Capelier

Le Petit Capelier is wonderfully placed for discovering the Dordogne: vineyards and bastide villages close to home, historic Bergerac within easy reach, and memorable day trips into the valleys, castles and prehistoric landscapes of the Périgord.

Whether your perfect holiday includes bustling markets, peaceful gardens, wine tasting, medieval architecture or a family adventure, there is always somewhere fascinating to explore.

Issigeac, Bergerac and the Local Bastides

Some of the Dordogne’s most enjoyable places are close enough for an easy morning or afternoon outing.

Issigeac is a beautiful medieval village of narrow lanes, timber-framed buildings and small independent shops. Its famous Sunday market fills the village with local produce, flowers, food stalls and the relaxed bustle of French village life.

Bergerac combines an attractive old town with riverside walks, restaurants, shops and the wine heritage of the surrounding countryside. From here, the landscape opens into vineyards, river valleys and a network of historic villages.

Other nearby bastides—including Eymet, Monpazier, Beaumont-du-Périgord and Villeréal—offer arcaded squares, traditional markets and café terraces. Each has its own character, making them ideal for unhurried days of exploring.

Vineyards, Wine and the Flavours of the Dordogne

Le Petit Capelier lies near the heart of the Bergerac wine region, where family-run vineyards produce red, white, rosé and dessert wines.

Château de Monbazillac is one of the area’s best-known landmarks. Set among the vines above the Bergerac valley, the château combines historic interiors, vineyard views and opportunities to discover the celebrated wines of Monbazillac.

Across the region, many vineyards welcome visitors for tastings and informal introductions to their wines. Opening arrangements vary, so it is sensible to check before visiting.

Food is an essential part of life in the Dordogne. Local markets and restaurants celebrate regional ingredients such as walnuts, strawberries, truffles, mushrooms, duck and seasonal produce. A morning at the market followed by a leisurely lunch is often one of the simplest—and most memorable—days of a Dordogne holiday.

Castles, Bastides and Medieval France

The Dordogne is renowned for its castles and fortified villages, ranging from romantic ruins to imposing medieval fortresses.

Closer to Le Petit Capelier, Château de Bridoire offers a particularly enjoyable family visit, while the grand Château de Biron rises dramatically above the surrounding countryside. Château de Monbazillac combines architecture and wine, and Château de Lanquais provides another glimpse into the region’s long and eventful history.

Further afield, the Dordogne and Vézère valleys contain spectacular castles, cliffside settlements and remarkably preserved villages. Places such as Beynac-et-Cazenac, La Roque-Gageac and Domme reward a longer day out with exceptional scenery and atmosphere.

These are landscapes made for wandering: stone lanes, shaded squares, panoramic viewpoints and cafés that encourage you to stay a little longer.

Caves, Prehistory and Underground Wonders

The Dordogne contains one of Europe’s greatest concentrations of prehistoric sites.

Lascaux IV at Montignac provides an immersive recreation of the celebrated Lascaux cave paintings, supported by modern exhibitions that explore prehistoric art and its discovery. It makes an excellent centrepiece for a full-day excursion into the Vézère Valley.

The area around Les Eyzies is equally rich in caves, rock shelters and archaeological sites. It offers a fascinating introduction to the people who lived in this landscape thousands of years ago.

For a very different underground experience, the Gouffre de Proumeyssac is known as the “Crystal Cathedral” of the Périgord. Its vast chamber and remarkable mineral formations make it one of the region’s most memorable natural attractions.

Popular sites can become busy during the summer, so advance booking is worthwhile.

Gardens, Riverside Villages and Slower Days

Not every holiday day needs a packed itinerary. The Dordogne is equally suited to gentle outings and long, leisurely lunches.

The gardens of Marqueyssac are known for sculpted box hedges, winding paths and magnificent views across the Dordogne Valley. The Jardins du Manoir d’Eyrignac offer elegant formal planting and peaceful walks within a historic estate.

Riverside villages such as Limeuil and La Roque-Gageac combine beautiful settings with historic streets, cafés and opportunities to pause beside the water.

Closer to Le Petit Capelier, the countryside around Issigeac is ideal for relaxed drives, village markets and discovering places that rarely appear on hurried sightseeing itineraries.

Family Days and Outdoor Adventures

Families have plenty of ways to experience the Dordogne together.

Canoeing is one of the classic regional activities, offering a completely different view of the river, castles and limestone cliffs. Routes and conditions vary, so choose a reputable operator and an outing suitable for everyone in your group.

The region also offers treetop adventure parks, cycling routes, walking trails, swimming lakes and family-friendly visitor attractions. Château de Bridoire is especially popular with families, while Lascaux IV and the prehistoric attractions of the Vézère Valley bring the region’s ancient history to life.

Some of the best family days are also the simplest: a morning market, a picnic, time beside the water and an ice cream in a village square.

Discover What Is Happening During Your Stay

Markets, fêtes, concerts, exhibitions, brocantes and food events take place throughout the year.

Our interactive guide shows selected events within 40 km of Le Petit Capelier. Choose a date to see what is happening nearby and add something special to your holiday plans.

Event arrangements can change, so please check the full event information before travelling.

Make Le Petit Capelier Your Dordogne Base

After a day among vineyards, castles, markets or medieval villages, return to the peace of Le Petit Capelier and begin planning tomorrow’s adventure.

Its location near Issigeac and Bergerac makes the house an inviting base for discovering both the local countryside and the wider Dordogne.