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Fishing, Canoeing, Swimming, Boating, Sightseeing, Walking, Cycling
Garden, Swimming pool (exclusiv e use)
Riberac is a pretty market town on the river Dronne, with restaurants, bars, a sports centre, and two large supermarkets. The Friday outdoor market, selling all manner of local produce is the largest in the region. During the high season there are numerous fetes and festivals in all the local villages.
Around two hours away are places such as:
Bordeaux, the largest city in the Aquitaine region, the mediaeval town of Sarlat, and the pretty hilltop bastide of Domme with magnificent views over the river Dordogne.
For historians, the remains of Oradour sur Glane, the small town, where in June 1944, the entire population was massacred by German SS troops, is not to be missed.
There are also numerous chateaux in the area, some of which are open to visitors, the closest of which is at Bordeilles where there is a large collection of antique furniture.
The entire western coastline of France, between La Rochelle in the north, and the Arcachon basin in the south is accessible in around three hours. La Rochelle is an old fishing port with shopping centre and many restaurants around the harbour area specialising in fresh seafood dishes. Well worth a day trip. Arcachon, to the south of Bordeaux, has the largest sand dune in Europe, and also has sandy beaches, restaurants and bars. Lacanau Ocean, is another more lively modern resort a few miles up the coast, ideal for surfing. Both resorts have plenty to do for the children.
well situated for many local attractions and driving, even in the high season, is a joy with little traffic on the roads.
Within an hours drive are places such as:
Aubeterre, regarded as one of the prettiest villages in the region, complete with ancient church carved out of the rock face, riverside beach, and canoeing. | |
Perigueux, the capital of the Dordogne, with its shopping centre, and mediaeval quarter and cathedral, is a must to visit, and has numerous Roman remains, much of which is on display in the local museum. | |
Brantome, has a magnificent 9th century abbey, canoeing, boat trips, and bustling Friday market. Nearby are the beautiful caves of the Grotte de Villars, complete with prehistoric cave paintings, stalagmite and stalactite formations (great for the children). | |
St Aulaye has museums, a water park and riverside beach with snack bar. | |
The large lake at La Jemaye, has café facilities, sandy beach, canoeing, and supervised swimming area. Fishing is also available with a day permit obtainable locally. | |
Angouleme is the nearest big city with a large shopping centre. | |
Bergerac, on the river Dordogne, has an impressive old quarter near the riverside quay, and lots of inexpensive restaurants for that leisurely lunch. Boat tours run from the old port | |
At Jarnac, the home of Courvoisier cognac, there are guided tours around the old headquarters (on the way, watch out for roadside tastings). | |
The medieval citadel of St Emillion built by king John, is famous for its wines, and there are several opportunities for wine tasting |