Things To Do
The Dordogne, and the Perigord Noir, is one of the most beautiful regions within France. There is so much to see and do, ranging from medieval towns and chateaux, to the prehistoric settlements in the vallée de l'homme. There are plenty of shopping opportunities to be had in Perigueux, Bergerac and Bordeaux; and in contrast if you just want peace and tranquility there are countless villages which are incredibly pretty and charming.
There is also plenty to do for children as well. In the hot summer months, the lifestyle is very much outdoors and so picnicking by the river is very popular, and taking it a step further with a canoe trip along the Dordogne or Vézère is even more fun. There are many theme parks and attractions in the area including Jacquou Parc, Le Bournat, Aquarium du Périgord Noir, Labyrinthe préhistorique and Big Bird (some of these are listed on the the Le Bugue page).
We’ve compiled a small selection below to give you a few ideas, but a visit to the Tourist Information Office in Le Bugue town centre is a must. The Tourist Information Office will provide a “what’s on” guide detailing festivals, music events, fireworks, markets etc which are happening at the time.
Roque Gageac
17 miles
Quite simply one of the most beautiful villages in France. Nestled in the base of a cliff on the banks of the Dordogne river, this village with its bars, restaurants and shops is a must see.
Sarlat
19 miles
Sarlat La Caneda is a medieval city, and also the capital of the Perigord Noir region. The old town is the perfect place to wander with its maze of picturesque narrow streets and Gothic and Renaissance mansions. There is a busy market on Saturdays.
Lascaux
1
20 miles
Whilst the internationally famous Lascaux caves and cave paintings are off-limits to the general public (to preserve them) there is now a visitors’ centre with full size replicas of the caves and the paintings for everyone to explore.
Castelnaud
18 miles
The the Chateau de Castelnaud has been built on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Périgord Noir. It offers magnificent panoramic views over the Dordogne Valley and beyond. Founded in the 12th century, it is a perfect example of a medieval fortress. Today, the Château houses an important collection of weapons and armour.
Bergerac
26 miles
Another beautiful, and interesting, medieval town in the west of the Dordogne department and on the banks of the Dordogne. Famous for Cyrano de Bergerac and the fantastic Bergerac wine from the local vineyards.
Etang de Tamnies
14 miles
Etang de Tamnies is a great family day out when the weather is hot. It is a large lake with its own man-made beach. There are dedicated swimming areas (with lifeguards) and a really fun inflatable assault course. Plus there is a bar on site.
Bordeaux
105 miles
Regarded by many as being one of the finest cities in France, second only to Paris. Bordeaux is world renowned for its architecture, food and of course its wine. Whilst it is 105 miles from Le Bugue, most of this is Auto Route and therefore easily reachable.
Limeuil
3 miles
Limeuil is an incredibly pretty village built on the hillside which faces the confluence of the Vézère and Dordogne rivers. With a couple of bars and restaurants it is an ideal place to spend a lazy day.
Caves
2 miles
If the weather is raining (or too hot may be) you should head underground to the Gouffre de Proumeyssac. It’s a large cave complex with a huge cavern known as the “Cathedral of Crystal” as its centre-piece.
Perigueux
26 miles
Perigueux is the capital of the Dordogne region, and where most of the area’s administration and commerce takes place. It is a medieval city in its own right, and worth a visit. If you like out-of-town shopping centres then this is the place to head. Similarly if you have a craving for the “fast food” chains then you will find them in Perigueux (there are even a couple of Indian restaurants if it is spicy food you are wanting).
Jacquou Parc
6 miles
Located close to Le Bugue, Jacquou Parc is a charming theme park popular with the French locals. It is a mix of small theme park rides and rollercoasters suitable for all ages; and a water park with very impressive water slides. A great full day out.