Bergerac

About Bergerac

This picturesque medieval French town lies on the northern bank of the Dordogne River in Aquitaine. Surrounded by glorious landscapes and vineyards that run for miles, the region’s warm weather helps you to experience the old town’s charm in the golden sunlight. Walk down the cobbled streets, past half-timbered houses, and make your way to the open-air cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Place Pélissière is the main square where a statue of the famous literary hero, Cyrano de Bergerac, proudly stands - although he has little to do with the place other than in name.

Bergerac’s more modern centre to the north dates from the 19th century and its shops are centred along the Rue de la Resistance. Every Saturday there’s a colourful market held at the Eastern end which is well worth a visit. The town’s museums celebrate what some might count as vices. The National Tobacco Museum in the 17th century Maison Peyrarède displays an impressive number of historic pipes, while The Musée du Vin et de la Batelerie traces the history of wine and the river - two products crucial to the evolution of the city.

About three kilometres north of the town you’ll find the nature trails of Pombonne Park which has a lake with a small sandy beach. Only a few minutes drive south of Bergerac sits the stunning Château de Monbazillac, a 16th century castle in the Renaissance style which looks like it’s come straight out of the pages of a fairytale.