dordogne, france, prehistory, painting, europe
The exquisite artistry of prehistoric painters in the cave of Lascaux II

Sojourn in the Dordogne

Sep 26 - Oct 4, 2013
Discover the ancient cave paintings, medieval architecture, and superior cuisine of the hidden gem of France
Starting at $4,395
Call 855-330-1542
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Overview
  • In the Dordogne River Valley—one of France’s best-kept secrets—tiny medieval villages cling to sheer cliffs, prehistoric paintings are found in caves, and traditional southern French cuisine is found at every meal. Embrace the history and tradition of this remarkable region as you make yourself at home in a 19th-century townhouse hotel in Sarlat-la-Canéda, a lovely town renowned for its medieval, Renaissance, and 17th-century architecture. Here your resident expert will introduce you to all facets of life in the magical Dordogne and you’ll feel part of the community.

    Step back in time to learn about prehistoric cave paintings at Lauscaux II and Rouffignac, explore celebrated medieval fortresses and towns such as Rocamadour, Beynac et Cazenac, and Domme, and meander through dazzling 18th-century gardens. Enjoy a traditional folk dance performance, hear about the allure and challenges of modern village life from a local resident, and learn about architectural preservation from a local expert. You’ll also sail aboard a traditional gabare on the river, experience Sarlat’s fabled market, and savor timeless gastronomic traditions of the Perigord.
    • Smithsonian Expert
  • Throughout your tour travel in the company of a Smithsonian Expert. Popular expert Christine Desdemaines-Hugon has worked with the scientific community, lectured on prehistoric art, and shared her knowledge and enthusiasm for the Dordogne region with visitors for the past 25 years. She has also served as the Smithsonian Expert for Sojourn in the Dordogne for many years.
    • Special Highlights
  • Spend one full week experiencing the authentic provincial character of the charming villages, medieval castles, and prehistoric treasures of Dordogne.
  • Visit the dramatic cliffside village and medieval pilgrimage site of Rocamadour, a World Heritage site.
  • See the fascinating prehistoric cave paintings of the World Heritage sites of Rouffignac and Cap Blanc and the perfect replica cave art of Lascaux II.
  • Enjoy specially arranged excursions to sites such as the prehistoric troglodyte village of La Madeleine, the fortress of Beynac et Cazenac, a cruise on the Dordogne River aboard a traditional gabare, the English-style gardens of Eyrignac, and the 13th-century walled village of Domme.
  • Meet local residents during the exclusive VILLAGE FORUM™, a special lecture on medieval architecture preservation and Sarlat’s famous market, just steps from your hotel.
  • Unpack once and stay in the family-owned Plaza Madeleine Hôtel in the heart of medieval Sarlat-la-Canéda.
  • Complement your travel program with the two-night Pre-Program Option to explore Bordeaux and St. Emilion, one of France’s world-famous wine regions and a World Heritage site.
    • World Heritage Sites
  • This tour features the following World Heritage sites in France:
    • The prehistoric sites and decorated caves of the Vézère Valley
    • The dramatic cliffside village and medieval pilgrimage site of Rocamadour
    • Rouffignac Cave
    • St-Amand-de-Coly and the prehistoric troglodyte village of La Madeleine, in the Vézère Valley
    To see a complete list of all our tours featuring World Heritage sites, click here.
    • TRAVELER COMMENT
  • "I had a wonderful time. This was one of those perfect vacations when all the elements came together in perfect balance. The area of France was intriguing, the cave paintings were awe-inspiring, the tour leaders were informative and cheerful, the hotel was comfortable, and the food was great. Kudos to all involved who helped plan and implement this tour."
    Jane C. Bale, Sojourn in the Dordogne traveler


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