Cultural Immersion in the Heart of Périgord Noir

Farewell, Périgord Noir

As our journey through the enchanting Périgord Noir nears its end, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared. Today was a blend of historical reverence and playful exploration, a fitting conclusion to our cultural immersion in this beautiful region. It was a day of contrasts, from the solemn grandeur of Périgueux Cathedral to the whimsical adventures at The Thot Park.


Explore Périgueux Cathedral, a UNESCO site with unique Romanesque-Byzantine architecture and a rich history dating back to the 4th century.

Our final day in Périgord Noir began with a hearty breakfast at Les machicoulis. Fueled up, we set off to explore Périgueux, the capital of the Dordogne. The crisp morning air, carrying the scent of autumn leaves, made the walk invigorating. Mei-Ling and I held hands, enjoying the quiet moments before the day's adventures unfolded.

The first stop was the magnificent Périgueux Cathedral, also known as the Cathédrale Saint-Front de Périgueux. Its history is rich, with a chapel first built on the site in the 4th or 5th century. Bishop Frotaire constructed the Abbey of Saint-Front in 976, which was then consecrated in 1047. The cathedral's architecture is a unique blend of Romanesque and Byzantine styles, a testament to the many layers of history it has witnessed. As I stood before its imposing facade, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The intricate details, the towering domes, and the sheer scale of the building spoke volumes about the faith and artistry of generations past.

Inside, the cathedral was equally impressive. The light filtering through the stained-glass windows cast a kaleidoscope of colors on the ancient stone floors. I was particularly struck by the Baroque walnut wood altarpiece. Mei-Ling, ever the observant one, pointed out the intricate carvings depicting the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. We wandered through the chapels, each with its own unique story to tell. The peaceful atmosphere was conducive to contemplation, and I found myself reflecting on the spiritual journey that has led me to this moment.

To truly appreciate a place, one must delve into its history and embrace its cultural nuances.

After immersing ourselves in the cathedral's history, we decided to lighten the mood with a visit to The Thot Park. This park offers a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric world, showcasing the animals that roamed the earth alongside our ancestors. Lin was particularly excited about this part of the day. As an active child, she loves animals.


Explore the world of Cro-Magnon humans at Thot Park: augmented reality, wildlife, and prehistoric art await in the Vézère Valley.

The park is well-designed, with spacious enclosures that allow the animals to roam freely. We saw bison, tarpans, and even wolves. Lin was thrilled to see the wolves up close, though I must admit, I kept a watchful eye on her. The park also features a museum area with reproductions of the Lascaux cave paintings. It was fascinating to see the artistry of our prehistoric ancestors and to imagine what life was like for them. The 3D cinema offered an immersive experience, bringing the prehistoric world to life.

We also participated in one of the discovery workshops, where Lin got to learn about the Cro-Magnon way of life. She was particularly fascinated by the tools and techniques they used for hunting and survival. It was a great way for her to connect with history in a hands-on way. The Thot Park is not just a theme park; it's an educational experience that sparks curiosity and wonder.

Lunch was at Ferme Sinsac, a delightful farm-to-table restaurant that celebrates the region's culinary heritage. We savored local specialties, including a delicious duck confit and a refreshing salad made with fresh, seasonal vegetables. The flavors were a perfect reflection of the Périgord Noir: rich, earthy, and satisfying.


Discover Ferme Sinsac: A charming vegetarian restaurant and organic farm offering fresh local produce in the beautiful French countryside.

In the afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll through the Jardin du bocage. This charming shop offered a variety of local products, including organic hemp products. I found it fascinating to learn about the sustainable agricultural practices used in the region. It reminded me of my own orchard back in Kelowna, where I strive to balance traditional farming methods with modern techniques. I picked up a few items to bring back home, a reminder of the natural beauty and bounty of Périgord Noir.


Experience the tranquil beauty and unique offerings of Jardin du Bocage, a cannabis store and truck farm in Saint-Jory-de-Chalais, France.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to La Vieille Auberge for our farewell dinner. This cozy restaurant exudes old-world charm, with its stone walls, wooden beams, and crackling fireplace. The menu featured classic French cuisine, prepared with love and attention to detail. We savored every bite, reminiscing about our adventures in Périgord Noir. The laughter, the shared experiences, and the bonds we've strengthened will forever be etched in my memory.


Savor authentic French cuisine in a charming setting at La Vieille Auberge - where tradition meets taste.

Tomorrow marks the end of our journey in Périgord Noir. It's time to pack our bags and prepare for the journey back home to Kelowna. While I'm eager to return to my orchard and share my experiences with friends and family, I'll also carry a piece of Périgord Noir in my heart. This region has captured my imagination and enriched my soul. I hope my stories have inspired you to embark on your own cultural immersion, to explore the world with open eyes and an open heart. Until next time, au revoir, and happy travels!

This trip has reminded me of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life. As I prepare to return home, I feel a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper connection to the world around me. The memories I've made here will stay with me forever, a reminder of the beauty and richness that our world has to offer.