It was a 5 hour drive south/east from Chinon to the Dordogne region, where truffles, walnuts and asparagus replace the wine of the Loire Valley.

Our car journey took in the beautiful flat wine growing region of the Loire Valley, the freeway where the speed of 130km/hour is legal, then changed to the more hilly region of the Dordogne where we had to negotiate tiny one lane roads at much slower speeds, more like 30km/hour.

Our home for the next two weeks is Beynac-et-Cazenac.  A small village on the side of a steep hill on the bank of the Dordogne River.  With a population of around 520 inhabitants we’re not expecting an exciting nightlife but more of a sedate french country lifestyle.  Luckily it’s off season as we hear that during the main tourist season it can be chaotic.

Our apartment is about half way up the hill on the left side.

This village is classified as “One of the Most Beautiful Villages in France” and is know for being one of the most photographed villages.  It is stunning.

The medieval Château de Beynac overlooks the town.

The actual area of the Chateaux covers many acres.  The photo below was taken from the cemetary behind the Chateaux.

Interestingly, the Chateaux built as a fortress, was impenetrable from the front where it perches on top of the cliff, but from behind the land is undulating.  Perhaps they didn’t think they would be at risk of invasion from the back.  Surprise!

Le Jacquou – our apartment

Our apartment is a little more modest than in Chinon but very comfortable.  It seems to be carved into the hillside and there is quite a climb to get to it.  Carparking is along the river so this is not a village for those who don’t enjoy significant amounts of incidental exercise to get around.

Perhaps the village should be named Beynac-et-Cardiac as we are certainly getting a workout.

It’s all stone paving here which is uneven at best.  Flat shoes only ladies!

The Dordogne River is wide and flows steadily past this village.  You can take a boat tour – we prefer to see the sights on foot.

Around the town, there are random little fountains.  Very quaint.

It’s a quiet little village with so much charm.  The locals are very friendly and helping us with our French.

We are looking forward to our two weeks here.

Au revior!

Jeff and Catherine xx