Dordogne - travel and tourism

The River Isle passes through Perigueux, then continues towards the south-west, eventually meeting with the Dordogne River at Libourne. En route it passes several interesting villages and towns, and has some attractive stretches to explore. However, a rather busy road runs next to the River, reducing its appeal somewhat.

Also many of the towns have suffered severe damage during their history - including the Hundred Years War and Wars of Religion, and again during World War 2, so there is little of great architectural interest to see in the towns.

In order, as you follow the flow of the river, the main villages are Saint-Astier, Neuvic, Mussidan and Montpon-Menéstérol.

At St-Astier, the main attraction is the large network of underground lime quarries that can be explored on a guided tour, and the gardens at nearby Chateau Mellet. There are also some attractive colombage houses to see in the town, and the nearby Chateau de Puyferrat can be visited.

At Neuvic there is a 16th century chateau open to the public, in an attractive riverside location and surrounded by substantial botanical gardens.

Mussidan has a small museum dedicated to the traditional work practices in the region. There is also a monument to 52 hostages that were killed by the Nazis as reprisals in the town. Saturday morning, when the market is held, is the best time to visit Mussidan.

Montpon-Menesterol is best known for the musical organs that are manufactured there.