The best traffic-free bike rides in Dordogne

Saint-Astier is a jewel of the Périgord, where history flirts with nature along the Isle. It hosts the famous Thursday market, festive and fragrant, a popular meeting place for savoring local produce. The town is home to heritage gems like the Château de Puyferrat and the fortified church, proud guardian of a vibrant past. Saint-Astier also shines for its natural lime, a world star in the restoration of historic monuments.

Beautiful chateau! Best seen from the road. The last 200 meters or so aren't really suitable for a racing bike.

A beautiful, newly paved cycle path, the Flow Velo, between Nontron and St. Pardoux. The Flow Velo runs along an old railway line much further than to Nontron or St. Pardoux, but this section is the best for cycling. The only annoying thing is the barriers at every crossing, no matter how small, such as a dirt road.

The Eschif of Périgueux is a small medieval building located on the banks of the Isle River, in the heart of the historic city center. It is one of the few defensive constructions still standing in Périgueux, a testament to medieval military architecture. Points of interest of the Eschif: Architecture and History: Dating from the Middle Ages, the Eschif served as a lookout post to monitor the passage of the Isle River. Its strategic location made it possible to control access to the city by river. This small tower, built in stone and wood, is typical of medieval watchtowers or sentry boxes. It has narrow openings and a sloping roof, characteristic of military buildings of this period. The Eschif was once part of the fortifications that protected the city, especially during the Hundred Years' War.

A beautiful cathedral and definitely worth a visit. It is the eye-catcher in Perigeux

The Pont des Barris, located in Périgueux, is one of the city's emblematic bridges. This stone bridge, which crosses the Isle River, connects the two banks of Périgueux and is part of the historic urban landscape. Points of interest of the Pont des Barris: Architecture and History: The Pont des Barris is a beautiful example of traditional stone architecture. It was built in the 19th century to replace old wooden bridges that once allowed people to cross the Isle. Its solid structure makes it an essential crossing point between the different districts of the city. It is made up of several stone arches, which give it both robustness and elegance. View of Périgueux: From the bridge, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the old town of Périgueux, including the Saint-Front Cathedral, whose domes dominate the skyline. The bridge is also a great vantage point to admire the Isle River, which meanders peacefully through the city. Access to the Isle Riverbanks: The Pont des Barris provides easy access to the Isle Riverbanks, which are ideal for walking or cycling. Along the river, many paths offer picturesque views of the city and surrounding nature. Place of Passage: This bridge is a central axis for residents and visitors of Périgueux, connecting the city center to the outlying districts and facilitating access to important sites such as markets, shops, and residential areas. Why go there? The Pont des Barris is both a strategic point for exploring Périgueux and a place offering superb panoramic views of the city. Its charm lies in its historic architecture and its central location, making it an essential passage for any visit to the city. Whether strolling along the river or crossing the town, it embodies one of the peaceful and picturesque symbols of Périgueux.

Why visit the Église Saint-Étienne de la Cité? Historical and spiritual heritage: The church is an important place of memory for Périgueux, having been the seat of the bishopric for centuries. It reflects the religious and architectural history of the region. A peaceful setting: Located in a quiet area full of history, the church offers an atmosphere conducive to reflection and contemplation. Proximity to ancient sites: A visit to the church can be combined with the discovery of the nearby Roman remains, including the amphitheater and the Vesunna Museum. The Église Saint-Étienne de la Cité is a hidden gem of Périgueux, to be discovered for its historical character and its serene atmosphere, while exploring the Gallo-Roman roots of the city.

The Church of Saint-Étienne de la Cité is one of the oldest churches in Périgueux, located in the old district of the Cité Vesunna, the historic heart of the city during the Gallo-Roman era. It is an exceptional witness to the religious and architectural history of the region, with a style that combines Romanesque and Gothic influences. Points of interest of the Church of Saint-Étienne de la Cité: History and architecture: The church dates from the 12th century and served as a cathedral until the 16th century, before this honor went to the Cathedral of Saint-Front. Its structure bears witness to the architectural evolution, with a massive Romanesque nave, sculpted capitals and a vaulted apse in a cul-de-four, characteristics of the Romanesque style. After being partially destroyed during the Wars of Religion, the church was restored several times, preserving a unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. A sober and spiritual interior: The interior of the church is relatively bare, which adds to its peaceful and spiritual atmosphere. The sobriety of the place highlights the clean lines of the architecture and the historical elements that remain, such as the Romanesque columns and sculpted capitals. Traces of ancient frescoes, as well as some colored stained glass windows, add touches of subtle beauty to the whole. Impressive bell tower: The church is topped by a massive bell tower, whose Romanesque base is a typical example of the architecture of the Périgord. This bell tower, with its robust buttresses, is a dominant element of the landscape of the Cité. An archaeological site: The church is located in the heart of the Cité Vesunna district, which is home to many Gallo-Roman remains. In the immediate vicinity of the church, visitors can discover the ruins of the Roman amphitheater and other testimonies of antiquity.