Best of Sarlat

There’s a reason that Sarlat is a favorite location for film directors (including The Last Duel, premiering in October 2021). The amber-coloured medieval buildings, hidden squares, and winding brick lanes form a dramatic backdrop to one of the Dordogne’s most enchanting towns. In fact, Sarlat has one of France’s highest densities of historic monuments, and you’ll feel like you’re back in the Middle Ages while wandering through the 12th-century Cathédrale St-Sacerdos and 13th-century Manoir de Gisson. Sarlat’s renowned cuisine (especially foie gras) draws gastronomes throughout the year, and you’ll eat well in its atmospheric dining rooms. 

The cultural treasures of the Vézère Valley are within easy reach of Sarlat. Guided tours take you to icons like Lascaux IV, a vivid recreation of one of France’s most famous prehistoric cave paintings. Even closer to Sarlat are the castles of Beynac and Castelnaud, both offering mesmerizing views from up high above the Dordogne River. Elsewhere, you’ll find a number of townships that have earned a listing among “the most beautiful villages of France” including Domme, la Roque Gageac, and Rocamadour.