Cultural Immersion in the Heart of Périgord Noir

A Journey Through Time and Earth

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a day where we journeyed from the depths of the earth to the soaring heights of medieval history. It's days like these that remind me why Mei-Ling and I left Taiwan for a life of exploration and discovery. This region of France is proving to be a treasure trove of experiences, blending natural wonders with the echoes of centuries past.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Hôtel - Restaurant La Couleuvrine. A simple but satisfying meal that prepared us for the adventures ahead. The anticipation was palpable as we set off for the Gouffre de Padirac, a place I'd been eager to visit since planning this trip with my friends. I remember reading about it years ago, a hidden world beneath our feet, and the reality exceeded all expectations. As someone who appreciates sustainable agriculture, I couldn't help but marvel at how nature can carve out such breathtaking landscapes over millennia.

The descent into the Gouffre de Padirac was like entering another world. We took an elevator down into the earth, and the temperature immediately dropped. The air was thick with moisture, and the silence was broken only by the sound of dripping water. It felt like stepping back in time, a journey into the planet's very core. Once at the bottom, we boarded a boat that took us along an underground river. The guide shared stories of the cave's discovery and the geological processes that shaped it. The rock formations were incredible, sculpted into fantastical shapes by water and time. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience, one that humbled us with the sheer power and artistry of nature. I made sure to take several photographs, hoping to capture the essence of this subterranean realm, though I knew no image could truly do it justice. The Gouffre de Padirac will be open until November 2, 2025, so make sure you visit it if you have the chance.


Explore the Gouffre de Padirac: Descend into a stunning subterranean world of rivers, caves, and geological wonders in the heart of France.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Emerging from the depths, blinking in the sunlight, we felt like we'd been on a different planet. It was time for another kind of ascent – a journey to the Château de Beynac. After the cool, damp atmosphere of the Gouffre, the warm October air was a welcome change. The drive to Beynac was picturesque, winding through rolling hills and charming villages that seemed untouched by time. The autumn colors were in full display, painting the landscape in hues of gold, red, and brown. It reminded me of the orchards back in Kelowna, though the scenery here had a distinctly medieval flair.

Arriving at Beynac, the château loomed above us, a formidable stone fortress perched atop a cliff. It was a steep climb to reach the entrance, but the views along the way were worth every step. The village itself was a maze of narrow cobblestone streets and ancient buildings, each with its own story to tell. I imagined what it must have been like to live here centuries ago, during the Hundred Years' War, when this region was a battleground between the French and the English. The château is open from 10 AM to 6 PM from October 1 to November 3, 2025.

The Château de Beynac is one of the most impressive medieval fortresses I have ever seen. Its walls are thick, its towers imposing, and its position commanding. From the top, we could see for miles in every direction, across the Dordogne Valley and beyond. It's easy to understand why this location was so strategically important throughout history. Inside the château, we explored the various rooms and chambers, each furnished with period pieces that brought the past to life. We learned about the lords of Beynac, their alliances and rivalries, and the role they played in the shaping of France. Walking through those halls, I felt a connection to the past, a sense of continuity that transcended time and place. The visit to the Château de Beynac was truly immersive.


Explore the majestic Château de Beynac, a historical fortress offering stunning views and a glimpse into medieval France's rich heritage.

After a morning of subterranean exploration and an afternoon of medieval history, we were ready for a hearty lunch. We found ourselves at La Petite Tonnelle, a charming restaurant near the base of the Château de Beynac. Alain, the owner, greeted us warmly and told us about the restaurant's history and his commitment to using local ingredients. The atmosphere was rustic and inviting, with a terrace overlooking the valley. I decided to try the confit de canard, a regional specialty, while Mei-Ling opted for the ris de veau. Both dishes were excellent, showcasing the rich flavors of the Périgord. For dessert, we shared the gâteau aux noix, a traditional walnut cake that was the perfect ending to our meal. The restaurant offered a creative cuisine.


Experience authentic French cuisine at La Petite Tonnelle in Beynac-et-Cazenac—where seasonal flavors meet picturesque views.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we returned to Sarlat-la-Canéda, where we had dinner reservations at Restaurant L'Esprit Sarlat. This restaurant is known for its modern take on classic French cuisine, and it did not disappoint. The setting was elegant, and the service impeccable. We savored every bite, reflecting on the incredible day we'd had. The restaurant offers both local and international dishes.


Experience authentic French cuisine at Restaurant L'Esprit Sarlat in the heart of beautiful Sarlat-la-Canéda.

Finally, as the day drew to a close, we decided to experience the local nightlife at Watson's Pub. It turned out to be the perfect spot to unwind after our busy day. The pub had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with a wide selection of beers and cocktails. I enjoyed a local craft beer while chatting with some of the other patrons. It was a great way to end the day, soaking in the ambiance of Sarlat and making new friends.


Discover the flavors of Périgueux at Watson's Pub, where brasserie dining meets a lively pub atmosphere, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. The Périgord Noir is a region that truly captivates the senses, with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and delicious cuisine. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we plan to visit the Château de Hautefort and Les grottes du Roc de Cazelle. I'm particularly looking forward to exploring the AC L'Atelier Créatif 24 shop. Until then, à bientôt!