Dating in the Dordogne, from Green to Black Périgord

Sarlat and the Dordogne valley, a picture-postcard setting

For a first date, Sarlat-la-Canéda is the obvious choice: its golden-stone houses, Renaissance mansions and Place de la Liberté, lively with the Saturday morning market, are made for strolling. Behind Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral stands the curious Lanterne des Morts. A few kilometres away, La Roque-Gageac stretches between cliff and river; from there, a trip of about an hour on a gabare, the traditional flat-bottomed boat, glides past the castles of Beynac and Castelnaud. For a sunset together, the hanging gardens of Marqueyssac offer a panorama over the whole valley.

Périgueux and Brantôme, between domes and canals

To the north, Périgueux, capital of White Périgord, is best explored by wandering through the Puy-Saint-Front quarter, at the foot of Saint-Front Cathedral and its domes, a UNESCO World Heritage site standing on the banks of the Isle. History lovers can continue to the Vesunna museum, designed by Jean Nouvel, near the Vésone tower. Further north, in Green Périgord, Brantôme lives up to its nickname, the Venice of Périgord: the Dronne wraps around the village, its bridges and its abbey set against the cliff. A perfect walk for a second date.

Prehistory, vineyards and good food

In the Vézère valley, Lascaux IV in Montignac and Les Eyzies, which bills itself as the world capital of prehistory, promise unforgettable outings. To the west, in Purple Périgord, Bergerac and its statue of Cyrano on Place Pélissière invite you to a tasting among the vineyards. And everywhere, markets selling truffles, walnuts and foie gras are a reminder that the Dordogne is best enjoyed as a couple. On Lyad, members across the department share their favourite places, a great way to find someone to discover them with.