Visiting the Green Perigord: the complete guide for your holiday
Fancy getting away for your next holiday in Dordogne? Head for the Green Perigord, a true haven of unspoilt nature! Here, nature is everywhere and the pace of your holiday changes: breathe, walk, discover… and above all, take your time.
Discover in this guide what to do in the Green Perigord, when to go, and where to stay to make the most of the region.
Why choose the Green Perigord for your holiday?
Visiting the Dordogne through its green territory means giving yourself the luxury of taking your time. There is no race against the clock here. Stroll through local markets and marvel at the rolling landscapes.
What is the difference between the Green Perigord and the Black Perigord?
It is worth noting that the term ‘Perigord’ is simply the old name for this department. To better understand its rich and varied landscapes, the territory has been cleverly divided into four distinct colours: black, green, white, and purple.
The Green Perigord takes its name from its lush vegetation, verdant plains, and the many rivers that run through it. It is a place of freshness, calm, and green tourism. The Black Perigord (located to the South-East) owes its name to the massive presence of holm oak forests with very dense foliage, which darken the hills and keep their dark colour all year round. It is the most famous and busiest area of the Dordogne.
The Green Perigord is therefore ideal if you are looking for a nature holiday in Dordogne away from the crowds.
What to do in the Green Perigord? A wide choice of activities for everyone!
If you decide to pack your bags and spend your next holiday in Dordogne, one thing is certain: boredom will not be part of the trip. The region is full of hidden treasures and offers a multitude of activities in the Green Perigord specially designed to please the whole family, from young children to grandparents, as well as sports enthusiasts and history buffs.
Sports activities
Need to burn off some energy and breathe the fresh air? The region’s rolling terrain and waterways form an exceptional playground:
- Hiking: hundreds of kilometres of marked trails winding through dense forests and along valleys.
- Mountain bike trails: dedicated tracks for all levels, from amateur cyclists to seasoned mountain bikers looking for a challenge.
- Canoeing & Kayaking: the must-do canoe trip down the river to discover the landscapes and mills from a unique angle.
- Swimming: take a break on the banks of the Isle or Auvézère rivers.
Cultural and heritage activities
The north of the Dordogne has a thousand-year-old history waiting for you. Go and discover the old stones and mysteries of the past:
- Villages of character: medieval cities and picturesque towns with cobbled streets perfect for strolling (Brantôme, Bourdeilles, Saint-Jean-de-Côle, Nontron, Thiviers, St-Yrieix-la-Perche, etc.).
- Majestic castles: from defensive medieval fortresses to elegant Renaissance palaces to explore during guided or night tours (Château de Jumilhac, Château de Puyguilem…).
- Caves and prehistory: a fascinating dive underground to admire nature's geological masterpieces and the traces of our ancestors (Villars cave, Beaussac cave).
Family activities
Looking for activities to share unique moments with your children? Here are some outings that are out of the ordinary:
- Gold Panning: step into the shoes of an adventurer and learn the techniques of gold seekers to find real flakes in the river.
- Velorail: pedal at your own pace as a family on a shaded former railway line, effortless thanks to electric assistance.
Find the best places and activities in the Green Perigord on our dedicated page.
Gastronomy and local specialities of the Green Perigord
It is impossible to travel through the Green Perigord without lingering over its gastronomy. The Dordogne terroir is full of exceptionally high-quality products from short supply chains, traditional farms, and expertise passed down through generations. To see for yourself, simply visit the traditional markets in Thiviers (every Saturday morning) or Brantôme (every Friday morning), where the colourful stalls are bursting with culinary wonders.
Here is a glimpse of the culinary treasures you absolutely must taste during your stay:
- Foie gras: the undisputed king of Perigord tables, goose or duck foie gras can be enjoyed mi-cuit, pan-seared, or as a traditional terrine.
- Perigord walnuts: benefiting from a prestigious AOC status, local walnuts are eaten fresh in autumn, used in delicious traditional cakes, or made into a powerfully scented walnut oil, ideal for seasoning summer salads.
- The black truffle: nicknamed the "black diamond of the Perigord", the truffle grows secretly in symbiosis with the roots of the region's truffle oaks. Its powerful and unique fragrance enhances a simple scrambled egg dish or mashed potatoes.
- Porcini mushrooms: as soon as the first rains of late summer or autumn appear, the dense undergrowth of the regional natural park fills with local foragers. Simply pan-fried with garlic and parsley, fresh ceps offer an incomparable taste of the forest.
- Local wine: to properly accompany these choice dishes, let the wine merchants guide you towards a good glass of wine from the neighbouring vineyards of the Dordogne (Bergerac, Monbazillac, Pécharmant).
When to go? What is the best time to visit the Perigord?
The Perigord is a magnificent destination all year round. However, the ideal time to plan your holiday in Dordogne depends above all on what you are looking for: generous sunshine for swimming, absolute calm to recharge your batteries, or a season conducive to the great events of local gastronomy. Each season has its appeal:
- Spring: nature in full bloom, pleasant temperatures, and ideal conditions for hiking and walks.
- Summer: the perfect season for swimming, canoeing, gourmet markets, and numerous events.
- Autumn: landscapes with flamboyant colours, a peaceful atmosphere, and the return of the mushroom season and local produce.
- Winter: a calm and authentic setting, ideal for discovering heritage and enjoying a stay away from the tourist crowds.
Where to stay in the Green Perigord? Discover Camping de la Chatonnière
To fully and peacefully enjoy all these superb activities in the Green Perigord, you need to find the ideal, central, and relaxing base. If you are looking for conviviality, absolute calm, and an outdoor disconnect, welcome to Camping de la Chatonnière.
Our establishment is an authentic green family campsite, nestled in a preserved and wooded green setting, located directly on the riverbank. For your comfort, we offer a wide range of modern and unusual accommodation suited to all holiday desires and budgets: holiday homes, mobilodges, safari tents, and pitches. Furthermore, by staying at our campsite, you can easily reach the region’s major sites.
Don’t wait any longer to book your next holiday rental and come and discover the Green Perigord! Our passionate team will be delighted to welcome you, guide you, and share their secret spots to make your stay in Dordogne simply unforgettable.
