25 February 2021 | Holidays, Tourism
Bergerac, Monpazier and Monflanquin
Bergerac and the surrounding region is an ideal holiday destination set in the heart of Périgord countryside.
Bergerac
The town itself lies on the banks of the river Dordogne. It was once a flourishing port for the wine trade and remains today as the main market centre of the area. It is designated as a ‘City of Art and History’ by the Ministry of Culture.
With all amenities inside and out of town, the main area of interest lies within the medieval streets which contain an array of artisan shops and a huge choice of excellent restaurants. In the old square is a statue in honour of Cyrano de Bergerac, the town’s most famous resident. Born in 1619, he was a novelist and playwright. Today, he is best known as the inspiration for the drama named after him. A newer statue, painted in colour and standing on a stainless steel pedestal, is on Place Pelissiere.
The surrounding countryside has many traditional and picturesque villages. Many of these towns were ‘bastides’; fortified settlements, walled and gated and built on a rational grid-plan.
Two of the finest bastide towns close to Bergerac are Monpazier and Monflanquin.
Monpazier
Monpazier, built in 1284 is one of the most complete of the surviving bastides. Ideal for a gentle stroll through the old streets with plenty of interesting shops, cafés and restaurants.
Monflanquin
Monflanquin is equally well-preserved, impressively located on a hilltop that is visible for miles. The views, of course are stunning. The main square, the Place des Arcades features some excellent gothic architecture and good choice of restaurants.
Pure France has many high quality rental homes in and around Bergerac, Monpazier and Monflanquin;
