Bordered by the Périgord Blanc and the Périgord Noir, here it is the purple colour of the grapes and vines in autumn that takes centre stage in the Périgord Pourpre. It is an ideal destination for combining art de vivre, heritage and nature, while enjoying a camping holiday in the heart of an authentic region.
Must-see attractions in the Périgord Pourpre
Bergerac and its heritage
Bergerac is the capital of the Périgord Pourpre. Crossed by the Dordogne River, it charms visitors with its historic centre of half-timbered houses and lively squares. The town is also known for its statue of the legendary hero Cyrano, its wine and tobacco museums, and of course its many vineyards.
Bastides and villages of character: original architecture
Founded in the Middle Ages, during the Hundred Years' War, discover the originality of the bastides of the Périgord Pourpre. They were created in turn by the English and the French in Eymet, Lalinde, Molières, Monpazier and Beaumont-du-Périgord. Their typical architecture can be found throughout much of the South-West, with ramparts and a geometric street plan converging on the central square.
Monpazier, founded in 1284 by Edward I of England, is one of the most beautiful bastides in France, listed among "Les Plus Beaux Villages de France" (The Most Beautiful Villages of France). Eymet, with its English influence, retains its grid layout and central square surrounded by arcades. Not far away, Issigeac is a magnificent circular village where medieval houses and Renaissance mansions stand side by side.
The vineyards and château of Monbazillac
In around a hundred communes in the Périgord Pourpre, the picturesque hillsides are covered with vineyards. They produce great wines with very different characteristics, such as Pécharmant, Rosette, Saussignac and the famous Monbazillac, a sweet wine renowned throughout the world. The Château de Monbazillac, which overlooks the Dordogne valley, is both a historical monument and a mecca for wine tasting.
Castles and medieval heritage
The Périgord Pourpre has several remarkable sites that bear witness to its rich past:
Bridoire Castel (Ribagnac)
Bridoire Castle, nicknamed the castle of games, offers activities and historical re-enactments that are particularly appealing to families. It is a lively place where heritage can be enjoyed in a fun way.
Montréal Castle (Issac)
Montréal Castle is an elegant Renaissance residence perched on a hill, with terraced gardens offering superb panoramic views of the valley. This site combines architectural discovery with walks in a green setting.
Biron Castel
Biron Castle is an imposing medieval fortress overlooking the surrounding countryside. Its rooms, courtyards and ramparts offer visitors a real journey back in time, making it a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Lanquais Castle
Lanquais Castle is a fine example of medieval and Renaissance architecture in the Dordogne. Guided tours provide a better understanding of local history and allow visitors to admire remarkable architectural features.
Gageac Castle (Gageac-et-Rouillac)
Gageac Castle offers a charming setting for photographs and a wonderful immersion in regional history.
Cadouin Cloister (Le Buisson-de-Cadouin)
Cadouin Cloister, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Routes of Santiago de Compostela, is a peaceful Gothic masterpiece. A visit here perfectly complements a tour of the region's châteaux and fortified towns.
Campsites in the Périgord Pourpre
In Bergerac and the surrounding area, there are more than a dozen good campsites in the vineyards of the Périgord Pourpre (see all campsites in the Périgord).
To make the most of the region, we particularly recommend the following campsites:
Camping La Pelouse (Bergerac)
Camping La Pelouse***, located in Bergerac, allows you to stay in the heart of the capital of the Périgord Pourpre. It offers easy access to the historic centre, half-timbered streets, museums and local vineyards. The spacious pitches and comfortable accommodation make it an ideal base from which to enjoy the region's gentle way of life.
Camping Pomport Beach (Pomport)
Camping Pomport Beach**** is set among the vineyards of Monbazillac and has a supervised swimming lake, perfect for cooling off in summer. Its outdoor activity areas and family games allow you to combine relaxation, nature and wine tasting in a peaceful setting.
Camping Le Moulinal (Biron)
Le Moulinal***** campsite, located in Biron, is ideal for visiting Biron Castle and the surrounding area. Its pitches and accommodation are suitable for all types of stays and allow you to discover the bastides and castles of the southern Dordogne while enjoying a pleasant and peaceful natural setting.
Conclusion
With its renowned vineyards, medieval fortified towns and architectural heritage, the Périgord Pourpre offers a distillation of art de vivre and history. Camping in this region means enjoying both the gentle way of life of the South-West and immersion in one of the most beautiful areas of the Dordogne .