MCM's Guide to the Dordogne
The Dordogne – most visited inland region in France
Within southwest France, often referred to as Aquitaine, the Dordogne stands out for its extraordinary natural beauty. Favoured for many years by UK expats for both holiday homes and permanent residence, it comprises France's fourth largest department, and has an average population density of 45 people per square kilometre, comparing with over 300 in England.
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As you can see from the map of France on the left, the yellow patch of the Dordogne is just below the centre of France, at the start of the large southwest area known as "Aquitaine". On the left, where it looks as if the coastline has been nicked, is Bordeaux. Further to the southwest are Biarritz and the Basque coast. The Mediterranean region is further down on the right. The Dordogne department is often referred to in French as Périgord, since its limits largely coincide with the former territory of the Comtes de Périgord. The department is now subdivided into four regions: the Périgord Noir, Périgord Blanc, Périgord Vert and Périgord Pourpre. The Périgord Noir, in the southeast of the department, around Sarlat, derives its name from the thickly wooded hillsides, which can make the area oppressive. The Périgord Blanc originally designated the area between Périgueux and the Ribérac country, the name deriving from the predominance of chalk in the soil. The departmental authorities have however restricted it now to the valley of the River Isle, which flows through Périgueux and then across to the west of the department, joining the Dordogne river at Libourne in the Gironde. The Périgord Vert is now used to describe the region in the north of the department, down as far as Ribérac, and is intended to convey the more pastoral feel of the countryside: while the Périgord Pourpre covers the winegrowing area around Bergerac. |
The climate varies from area to area. Broadly, the rainfall increases as you move northeast across the department, up towards the plateaux of the Limousin. The Bergerac area has the greatest amount of sunshine. The western part of the department, including the Ribéracois, is influenced by its greater proximity to the Atlantic coast, and usually takes its weather from the prevailing west winds coming in from the coast. The temperature drops a degree or two as you travel further east.
The region's attractions make it a prime target for tourists, and in 2005 it had more tourists than any other inland area in France. The idyllic pastoral landscape and the warm welcome from local inhabitants have ensured a continuing popularity for holidaymakers of all nationalities – but particularly the British, many of whom have decided they wish to make it their home.
The Ribérac area – prime target for housebuyers
Ribérac and its surrounding villages have long been one of the prime targets for UK property-buyers, because of the agreeable climate, easy accessibility, seductive countryside and friendly inhabitants. To the west, north and east the pleasantly undulating countryside provides an endless sequence of intimate landscapes, through which the beautiful Dronne river meanders peacefully. To the south, the hills roll into the Double forest, a fascinating and historic area packed with wildlife, and edged by the River Isle. Visitors often comment on the particular quality of the light, which has attracted many artists to the area. Beautiful views are never far away. Nestling in folds of the hills are small villages with medieval fortified churches, or groups of houses formerly occupied by tenant farmers, all built from the local limestone. UK buyers love the Dordogne cottages and farms, with their exposed beams and thick walls. The small barns provide dramatic living-space for those wishing to undertake a conversion. |
Rediscover quality of life
The Dordogne quality of life has acted as a magnet for many who have been looking for a refuge from the stresses and strains of urban life. There are no large conurbations. Périgueux, the principal town of the department, has a population of some 45,000. Ribérac, with its surrounding communes, has a population of just over 4,000. Countrylovers and those who like outdoor sports will find it a natural paradise, with ample opportunities for cycling, hiking and canoeing.
In spite of the predominantly agricultural character of the region, there is a lively cultural scene, with regular performances of music and dance to be found in theatres in both Périgueux and Bergerac. In the summer, the Dordogne has a series of musical festivals that cater for all tastes.
The Dordogne's Siren Call
Recent French academic research has shown that the Dordogne is more attractive to British buyers than any other region in southwest France. What's more, there seems to be a change in the age profile. Whereas the Dordogne has traditionally attracted pensioners, there are now more families coming into the area, with children of school age.
Perhaps you have already visited the area and are now one of the many people searching for property here. Or perhaps you have simply heard about it and are comparing it with other places. In either case, if you want to know more, just get in touch!