Beyond Tourist France: A Journey Through the Dordogne Valley
Join me for a week's château based adventure in the Dordogne, France.
Spend a week immersed in the unique charm of the Dordogne, staying in a traditional château surrounded by the region's natural beauty.
We’ll explore both well known highlights and hidden gems, from historic castles and prehistoric caves to vibrant markets and serene rivers.
Savour the region’s rich wine and food culture with wine tastings, farm visits, and a private cooking atelier.
Discover the stunning Vézère Valley, wander through beautiful villages like Brantôme, Saint Jean de Côle, and Les Eyzies, and enjoy kayaking, yoga sessions, and even a ride on the velorail.
Visit renowned sites such as Château de Hautefort, the Truffle Museum, and the bustling Excideuil market.
The Dordogne brings together history, culture, nature, and gastronomy in a way few regions do, offering a genuine experience of France beyond the well-trodden path.
Spend a week immersed in the unique charm of the Dordogne, staying in a traditional château surrounded by the region's natural beauty.
We’ll explore both well known highlights and hidden gems, from historic castles and prehistoric caves to vibrant markets and serene rivers.
Savour the region’s rich wine and food culture with wine tastings, farm visits, and a private cooking atelier.
Discover the stunning Vézère Valley, wander through beautiful villages like Brantôme, Saint Jean de Côle, and Les Eyzies, and enjoy kayaking, yoga sessions, and even a ride on the velorail.
Visit renowned sites such as Château de Hautefort, the Truffle Museum, and the bustling Excideuil market.
The Dordogne brings together history, culture, nature, and gastronomy in a way few regions do, offering a genuine experience of France beyond the well-trodden path.
This week is a unique collaboration between Women Go Travel and Manor and Maker, based at Château de Saint Germain des Prés in the scenic Périgord Vert area of the Dordogne, France.
Owned by Canadians Sara and Stephen, this 16th century castle combines historic character with genuine hospitality, providing a comfortable and welcoming base to explore the Dordogne at a relaxed pace and experience its authentic local culture.
Owned by Canadians Sara and Stephen, this 16th century castle combines historic character with genuine hospitality, providing a comfortable and welcoming base to explore the Dordogne at a relaxed pace and experience its authentic local culture.
At a Glance:
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Sold Out!
Please contact me if you’d like to be added to the waitlist 8 days / 7 nights
€1950 pp Single supplement €500 pp (limited availability) Minimum Group size: 6 Maximum Group size: 10 All bookings will be managed by my French partners and château owners, Stephen and Sara Cole. Please note that all payments are processed in Euros. |
Itinerary
This isn’t about ticking famous sites off a list. It’s about understanding how French culture really works — from morning markets where vendors remember your name, to family run châteaux where stories span centuries.
The Dordogne region holds 25,000 years of human history, from prehistoric cave paintings to Renaissance châteaux. What makes it truly special isn’t just the monuments, but the people who live this heritage every day.
You will discover the legendary gastronomy that has made this region famous worldwide — truffle tastings with local hunters, wine discoveries with experts, and cooking ateliers revealing the best flavours of the Dordogne valley. Explore medieval villages with locals who know every story, visit prehistoric sites where humanity’s earliest art survives, and engage in gentle activities like kayaking, cycling, hiking, and yoga that connect you with the landscape. Meet artisans, farmers, and château owners who share their passions in genuine encounters. This is noble heritage lived — châteaux that shaped French culture and continue to influence local life.
Please note: The itinerary might change if a can’t-miss local event, like a flea market or local festival, comes up. We may also need to adjust plans because of weather, unexpected closures, or other special opportunities that pop up to make your trip even better.
The Dordogne region holds 25,000 years of human history, from prehistoric cave paintings to Renaissance châteaux. What makes it truly special isn’t just the monuments, but the people who live this heritage every day.
You will discover the legendary gastronomy that has made this region famous worldwide — truffle tastings with local hunters, wine discoveries with experts, and cooking ateliers revealing the best flavours of the Dordogne valley. Explore medieval villages with locals who know every story, visit prehistoric sites where humanity’s earliest art survives, and engage in gentle activities like kayaking, cycling, hiking, and yoga that connect you with the landscape. Meet artisans, farmers, and château owners who share their passions in genuine encounters. This is noble heritage lived — châteaux that shaped French culture and continue to influence local life.
Please note: The itinerary might change if a can’t-miss local event, like a flea market or local festival, comes up. We may also need to adjust plans because of weather, unexpected closures, or other special opportunities that pop up to make your trip even better.
Day 1: Saturday, 27 June – Arrival at Château de Saint Germain des Prés
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You can arrive anytime and will be warmly welcomed at the château, with time to settle into your room at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, there’s a relaxing yoga session to help ease any travel stiffness. In the evening, we’ll come together for a group dinner and introductions to get everyone acquainted.
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Day 2: Sunday, 28 June - classical architecture
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We’ll start the day with a visit to the local boulangerie, where you’ll have the chance to meet the baker and learn a little about their craft. You can savour fresh, traditional bread and pastries, straight from the oven — a real treat to begin the day.
After this, we’ll make our way to Hautefort for a tour of the impressive Château de Hautefort. This château is steeped in history, with stunning architecture and fascinating stories that bring the past to life. You’ll have time to explore the grounds and take in the beautiful surroundings. Later that afternoon, back at Château de Saint Germain des Prés, we’ll enjoy a private, expert led wine tasting. Here, you’ll discover some exceptional local vintages and gain insights into the region’s winemaking traditions, all in a relaxed and intimate setting. |
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Day 3: Monday, 29 June – Prehistoric Caves & Culinary Delights
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Today we’ll explore Les Eyzies, known as the prehistoric capital of the region, where you can immerse yourself in the origins of human history. Next, we’ll visit the charming village of St Léon sur Vézère, officially listed as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” for its picturesque streets and authentic atmosphere. To complete the day, we’ll discover the remarkable Font de Gaume cave paintings—one of the few sites with prehistoric polychrome art still open to the public—offering a unique glimpse into early human creativity. Tonight, dinner will be prepared by local chef Anthony Bricout, giving you a true taste of the region’s culinary expertise.
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Day 4: Tuesday, 30 June - Venice of Périgord
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We’ll start the day exploring Brantôme; it's Abbey and lively markets, where you can browse local produce and crafts. After that, we’ll visit the impressive châteaux at Bourdeilles, rich in history and offering fascinating insights into the region’s heritage. Later, we’ll head to St Jean de Cole, another charming village recognised as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France,” where you can wander the picturesque streets and soak up the authentic atmosphere.
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Day 5: Wednesday, 1 July - Capital Discoveries
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Today, we visit the bustling Périgueux market, a vibrant hub where you can wander among stalls overflowing with fresh local produce, artisan crafts, and regional delicacies. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs or sample some authentic flavours. Afterwards, we’ll explore the nearby Gallo-Roman ruins, where well preserved remnants reveal fascinating stories of the area’s ancient past, giving you a deeper understanding of its historical significance.
In the afternoon, get ready for a unique and enjoyable experience with a velorail ride—pedalling (or being pedalled!) along a peaceful, disused railway track through the scenic countryside, combining gentle exercise with beautiful views. To round off the day, dinner will be served at a local bistro in Excideuil, offering an intimate atmosphere and a chance to enjoy traditional regional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. |
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Day 6: Thursday, 2 July - truffle country
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Today, we’ll begin by exploring the quaint local village of Excideuil, soaking up the authentic local atmosphere of market day with its fresh produce, artisan goods, and traditional crafts. Next, we’ll visit the Sorges Truffle Ecomuseum to learn about the fascinating world of truffles, including their history, cultivation, and harvesting.
The day’s highlight is a cooking atelier with a professional chef, where we’ll talk through the preparation of traditional local savoury dishes. Then, you’ll get hands on making a classic local dessert. To finish, we’ll all enjoy the full meal together—the dishes we’ve explored and the dessert we made—delicious! |
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Day 7: Friday, 3 July - river adventure
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The day begins with a refreshing kayaking trip along the beautiful Dordogne River, where you’ll paddle past several stunning castles dotting the riverbanks. This offers a unique perspective on the region’s rich history and architecture as you glide through the calm waters, taking in breathtaking views of the countryside and historic châteaux.
After drying off, we’ll visit the historic Château des Milandes, once the home of the famous singer Josephine Baker. The château boasts impressive architecture, lovely gardens, and fascinating cultural exhibits that bring its rich history to life. To round off the trip, we’ll gather for a farewell supper right at the château. It’s a relaxed evening to share stories, reflect on the experiences of your journey, and enjoy delicious regional cuisine in a beautiful setting. |
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Day 8: Saturday, 4 July - Au Revoir
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After a leisurely breakfast at the château, take your time soaking up the atmosphere—perhaps with a stroll around the grounds, reading a book in a quiet corner, or simply enjoying the views. You’re free to relax and leave whenever it suits you.
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Included:
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Accommodation: 7 nights in a private chateau
Included Meals: Breakfast x 7 & Dinner x 7 (including wine, beer or cider with the Table d'hote dinners) Transport: Air-conditioned private vehicle transfers throughout Expert trip facilitation: Dr Angela Clark Local Hosts: Sara and Stephen Cole Pre-trip support by Angela; includes providing all necessary information on travel, health, and logistics. Private WhatsApp group to connect with your fellow travellers, share travel tips, ask questions and engage in discussions. Curated suggested resources, including books, movies and podcasts that will enhance your understanding of the destination. Personalised Digital Itinerary Tote Bag - unique to this trip All non-alcoholic beverages at the château All excursions and entrance fees Cooking atelier Private Wine tasting Yoga sessions Small group maximum 10 women Rooming Requirements: Twin Share (single supplement option, subject to availability) |
Exclusions:
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Enhance Your Trip
Suggested Extensions for Before or After Your Château Based Adventure:
Suggested Extensions for Before or After Your Château Based Adventure:
Paris – Explore the iconic sights, worldclass museums, and vibrant neighbourhoods of France’s capital city.
Bordeaux – Discover a lively wine city famed for its elegant architecture, riverfront charm, and exceptional vineyards.
Toulouse – Experience the unique blend of pink hued buildings, aerospace heritage, and lively markets in the “Pink City.”
Or venture beyond these options to tailor your trip exactly as you wish. I’m here to assist with all additional travel arrangements, including flights—just get in touch!
Bordeaux – Discover a lively wine city famed for its elegant architecture, riverfront charm, and exceptional vineyards.
Toulouse – Experience the unique blend of pink hued buildings, aerospace heritage, and lively markets in the “Pink City.”
Or venture beyond these options to tailor your trip exactly as you wish. I’m here to assist with all additional travel arrangements, including flights—just get in touch!
