Sarlat and the Dordogne

The medieval village of Sarlat sits at the center of the Black Perigord region of the beautiful Dordogne valley. A perfect location to base yourself as you explore the medieval architecture, prehistoric caves, breath-taking chateaux and all the cultural activities that Sarlat and the Dordogne have to offer. Sarlat offers over 100 restaurants, a market every Wednesday and Saturday that draws people from miles around, and cultural events throughout the year. Take a look at the many events you can expect to find:

Sarlat Annual Events

January-April

• Truffle Festival – a culinary symposium of foie gras and truffle: mid-January, every year
• Walnut festival : Early February
• Giant Easter egg hunt – in the streets of Sarlat : every year in April
• Ringueta – A festival of traditional games of the past. Every 2 years, on Whit Sunday

May-August

• Journées du terroir – A two day market with local produce: May 13th & 14th
• Summer art exhibition. Each year, the work of a different artist is presented. June to September.
• Fête de la Musique: National music day on the 21st June every year throughout the medieval town
• Theatre Games Festival – Since 1952: End of July to early August
• National exhibition of Photographic art: July and August

September-December

• European Heritage Day: 3rd week-end in September.
• The « Salamander » Raid (sporting event) : The first fortnight in September
• Gourmet celebration days : The second fortnight in September
• Movie Festival: Second fortnight in November
• Christmas Market – up to 40 vendors in Christmas-themed wooden chalets selling arts and crafts. Numerous entertainments, a free play area for children, and an outdoor skating rink: December each year
• Les Hivernales – Exhibition of works from local artists: Christmas holidays

Additionally, tourists from both France and the rest of the world enjoy a variety of outings all around the Dordogne Valley. Three of the villages considered to be the most scenic in all of France are just a short distance from Sarlat. La Roque-Gageac, Domme, and Beynac are a must-see when visiting the region, and Sarlat is the perfect base from which to begin a tour.

Many other touristic sights and activities are to be found in the Dordogne Valley as well.

Sarlat and Dordogne Sights/Activities 

La Roque Saint Christophe – Tour a 55,000 year old troglodyte village in Peyzac

Château de Castelnaud – Built on a rocky outcrop in Castelnaud-La-Chapelle, the Château offers a magnificent view over the
Dordogne Valley. It was founded in the 12th century, and is an excellent example of a medieval fortress. The Château houses an important collection of weapons and armour. Daily tours.

Manoir de Gisson – The manor of Gisson, classified as a historic monument, is one of the most remarkable buildings of the medieval city of Sarlat. A two part tour lasts one hour, and is dedicated first to the architecture of the building, and then to the common life of the nobility of the people from Sarlat and particularly the family Gisson.