We returned to Perigord Retreat in 2022!

 

We had such a marvelous time in 2019 that plans were secured for a return 9-18 October 2022 (10 days/9 nights). The Dordorgne and Lot Rivers area offers much for our visit and those who returned were promised to see new villages (and maybe some of our favorites from 2019). We are always a small group. 

Our trip included walking the cobblestone streets and riverside picnics. We went inside Pech Merle prehistoric cave, shopped the quaint shops and church of Saint Cirq Lapopie high bove the Lot River and walked along the cliff side village of Laroque Gageac with its flowers. While some took in the Chateau Castlenaud others relaxed alonside the Dordogne River (with some kayaking). We couldn't miss returning to the Saturday market at Sarlat. Also on our agenda was Cahors, Collonges-la-Rouge, Turrene, Gourdon's medieval gate and streets and the pilgrimage trail in Rocamadour. One of our favorites was the Chateau des Milandes where the famous American Josephine Baker lived and worked for the French Underground during WWII (and we saw a brids of prey demonstration!).

CAHORS

Cahors is located on the Lot River and is celebrated for its deep red wine, elaborate municipal gardens and the Pont Valentré, a medieval bridge with 3 towers. The village has many half-timbered houses with narrow alleyways. The imposing Cathédrale St-Étienne (Cahors Cathedral) was built in Gothic and Romanesque styles, with large domes and centuries-old frescoes.

 

PECH MERLE PREHISTORIC CAVE VISIT

 

We missed seeing this cave in 2019 and were thrilled to enter this yearIt is one of the few caves open to the public and boasts of woolly mammoth, spotted horses, reindeer, handrpints and even human images. Most remarkable, childrens' footprints are seen here, preserved in what was once clay half a mile inside the cave.

COLLONGES-LA-ROUGE

In a village where each building is red, it is easy to see the reason for the name. Homes hang over the walkways creating tunnels as one walks the intimate streets. The architecture is unique using the local red stones. To say this village has charm is an understatement!

 

 

There are so many other options!