Cultural Immersion in the Heart of Périgord Noir

A Day of Discovery

Today was a day of stepping back in time and unearthing hidden treasures in the heart of Périgord Noir. From a fortified house clinging to a cliff face to the serene beauty of manicured gardens and the thrill of the hunt in an antique shop, every moment felt like a page torn from a history book. It was a day filled with awe, wonder, and the simple joys of exploration, shared with friends who appreciate the beauty of the past as much as I do.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Moulin Du Grand Etang. The setting was idyllic, right by the Grand Étang de Saint-Estèphe, and the food was wonderful. I opted for a classic French breakfast of pain au chocolat and a strong café au lait, fueling up for the day's adventures. The others chose various options from the menu, all seeming very pleased with their choices.

First on our itinerary was the Fortified House of Reignac. I had seen pictures, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer audacity of this structure. Built directly into the cliff face, it seemed to defy gravity and logic. As we approached, the history of the place was palpable.


Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of the Fortified House of Reignac, a must-visit fortress in the heart of Tursac, France.
Inside, the house was a maze of rooms, each telling its own story. The architecture was fascinating, and the way the house integrated with the rock was ingenious. Walking through the different chambers, I could almost hear the echoes of the families who had lived there centuries ago. The views from the upper terraces were magnificent, stretching out over the Vézère Valley. What struck me was how well-preserved everything was; it felt like stepping back in time.

History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul.

The Maison Forte de Reignac is larger than it appears from the outside, with impressive rooms. There's even a small museum of artifacts found on the site. The visit continues with several rooms on two floors and an aerial terrace. Informational panels guide you through the daily life of the inhabitants of Reignac over time.

After the Fortified House of Reignac, we drove to Château et jardins de Losse. The contrast between the ruggedness of the fortified house and the elegance of the château and its gardens was striking. The Château de Losse began as a fortress in the 11th century. In the 16th century, Jean II de Losse added a hall in the Renaissance style.


Discover the beauty and history of Château et Jardins de Losse, a stunning castle and botanical garden in the heart of Dordogne, France.
The gardens were immaculate, a testament to the dedication of the gardeners. As we strolled through the grounds, we admired the imaginative hedging and the overall sense of tranquility. The architecture of the château was also noteworthy, with quotes engraved under the windows and above the doors. It's a small château, but well worth visiting.

For lunch, we stopped at Lou Boueiradour in Jumilhac-Le-Grand. This restaurant is known for its traditional French cuisine and its lovely terrace overlooking the Château de Jumilhac. We sat outside, enjoying the view as we savored our meal. I chose a regional specialty, a hearty stew that warmed me from the inside out. The others opted for various dishes from the menu, and everyone seemed pleased with their choices.


Savor authentic French cuisine at Lou Boueiradour in Jumilhac-le-Grand - where culinary excellence meets charming ambiance.
After lunch, we decided to indulge in a little retail therapy at Au Plaisir du Chineur in La Coquille. This café-brocante is a treasure trove of second-hand clothes, dishes, small appliances, furniture, and decorations. I always enjoy browsing through antique shops, searching for that unique item that speaks to me.


Experience the perfect blend of rich coffee and vintage treasures at Au Plaisir du Chineur, a hidden gem in La Coquille, France.
The shop was packed with an eclectic mix of items, from vintage clothing to antique furniture. I found a beautiful old teacup with delicate floral patterns, a perfect addition to my collection back home in Kelowna. Mei-Ling would adore this, I thought to myself. We spent a happy hour or so sifting through the treasures, each of us finding something to take home as a memento of our time in Périgord Noir.

Our final stop of the day was Restaurant gastronomique Château Les Merles for dinner. Set in the old barn of the Château les Merles, the restaurant offers local dishes with a modern twist. The ambiance was wonderful, and the service was impeccable. We chose to dine in the courtyard, lit by candles, creating a magical atmosphere. I opted for the chef's tasting menu, a culinary journey that showcased the best of Périgord Noir's cuisine. Each dish was a work of art, both in terms of presentation and flavor. The others chose various options from the à la carte menu, and everyone raved about their meals. The sommelier recommended a local wine that paired perfectly with our food, completing the dining experience.


Experience fine French dining at Château Les Merles - where tradition meets innovation in the heart of Dordogne.
As we savored our meal, we reminisced about the day's adventures. From the cliffside fortress to the manicured gardens and the thrill of the antique shop, every moment had been special. We felt grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful region and to share these experiences with friends.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Château des Milandes and The Gardens of Eyrignac Manor. I'm particularly excited about the gardens, as I've heard they are among the most beautiful in France. We'll also be having lunch at Le Moulin de l'Abbaye and dinner at La Jolie Guinguette, and perhaps a drink at Bar Des Amis.

Back at our cozy accommodation, I reflected on the day. Périgord Noir has a way of seeping into your soul, leaving you with a sense of wonder and appreciation for the past. It's a place where history comes alive, where beauty is found in unexpected places, and where the simple joys of life are celebrated. I am glad I could share this with my friends.

As I drifted off to sleep, I dreamt of castles, gardens, and antique treasures, eager to see what tomorrow would bring. The adventure continues...