Cottages in Bergerac

Discover the charm and bucolic beauty of the French countryside with a trip to Bergerac. Located along the Dordogne River, this gorgeous village with its old half-timbered houses, regional wines, castles and long history is sure to steal your heart. Canoe the Dordogne River. Learn fun facts about tobacco. Eat local delights at all the best restaurants and cafés. There is so much to discover in this little corner of Dordogne!

Have an authentic Bergerac experience with a stay in one of these classic French, stone-walled cottages. Perfect for mid-sized groups, these cottages offer flower gardens, terrace, fully equipped kitchen and more. Some of these cottages have a history dating back to the 17th century! Others have a private pool. Enjoy expansive views of the countryside. Take your tea in the garden. Walk to nearby towns. A stay in one of these Bergerac cottages is half of the French countryside experience!

Bergerac is replete with history. You could also say that Bergerac has a fascination for Cyrano since there are two statues of the 17th century musketeer within the city. Interestingly, Cyrano de Bergerac never visited Bergerac. Neither did the author who used his name to create a fictional tale ever step foot in the city. You can find Cyrano at the Place Pélissiére and on the beautiful Rue de la Mirpe. Other historical sites that are a must-see include the world-famous Bastides (Puyguilhem), Château de Monbazillac and the Moulin de la Rouzique (paper mill).

Bergerac is a renowned wine region for its highly prized Périgord black truffles. Wine lovers can't miss a visit to Le Cloître des Récollets where all the local producers meet. This 17th century monks cellar is also architecturally wonderful and a great place to learn about viticulture. Be sure to also venture over to Vinothéque to learn about the prehistory of this region as well as their signature "sensorial table". Then, try the world-famous Périgord black truffle available at the truffle market in Sainte-Alvère.

Outdoor lovers are in for a treat! One of the best things to do in Bergerac is to rent a canoe for a half day and explore the Dordogne River. The canoe trips range from easy with flat green banks and plenty of places to stop and have a picnic, to a little more challenging runs through limestone ravines, mediaeval castles and dark woodlands. There are also loads of hiking trails both near the river and deeper into the countryside. Find out more at the tourist office. Water lovers should beeline over to the picturesque Lac de Pombonne.

Take a walk through Bergerac's enchanting Old Town where you'll find storybook half-timbered houses, boutiques, Bergerac's mediaeval quarter, cobbled stoned streets and, of course, the legendary Cyrano. Pay special attention to the Maison Gaudra on Rue des Fontaines, Place Pélissière and, if you're lucky, the bell-ringers of the Church of Saint-Jacques.

If you are in the area of Monbazillac, be sure to stop by the charming mediaeval village of Issigeac. Here, you will get lost in the maze of half-timbered houses with wooden galleries, quaint restaurants and the hustle and bustle of the Sunday market.

The Musée de Tabac is a must-see for any traveller. Here, you will learn fascinating facts about Europe's last tobacco plantation. At Maison Peyrarède, you will learn about how tobacco was brought to Europe from America and its impact on 17th and 18th century society in a beautiful, Renaissance-style mansion.

If visiting Bergerac during the summer, you absolutely must try the traditional Gabarres de Bergerac. Departing from Quai Salvette, your captain will tell you centuries-old stories of barges, the wine trade and other insider facts about Bergerac.

If you love vineyards, castles and breathtaking views, then you must visit Château de Monbazillac. Built in 1550, you can take a tour of the fortress and see period pieces as well as learn interesting facts about the castle's defensive role throughout history. The tour finishes with a complimentary tasting of dessert wine made from grapes grown on the property.

Just a short drive upriver from Bergerac you'll find the Grottes de Maxange, home to some of the most unusual stalactite and stalagmite formations. Discovered by accident over 2 decades ago, these caves are known for their sharp, wiry helictites that make them unique.

Just a short drive outside of Bergerac stands Moulin de la Rouzique, an 18th-century paper mill that still functions to this day! At this interactive museum, you will learn how this mill has made paper from hemp, cotton and flax for over 300 years. If you want, you can even sign up to make your own paper as a keepsake!