AQUITAINE

Aquitaine, like most of north-west France, was once an English 'province'. It embraces the Dordogne and Lot-et-Garonne - much loved by the British, as well as the coastal départements of the Gironde, Landes and Pyrénées-Atlantique. There is a multitude of pursuits to be found in this region, including palaeontology in troglodyte caves, archeology, windsurfing along the long Atlantic beaches, skiing in the Pyrénées, and boating or fishing in the many rivers which include the Dordogne, the Garonne, and the Lot.

The name Dordogne conjures up different meanings to different people. To some, it's a river, with some of the most beautiful scenery imaginable. There are ancient caves carved out by pre-historic man, and some of the finest châteaux built in spectacular positions. There are tranquil riverbanks with solitary anglers as well as ancient bustling market towns lining the river. To others, it's the home of gastronomy with fine food and equally fine wine. If you like paté de foie gras, or duck cooked in many different ways, this is the place to be!

Although the department is officially titled the Dordogne, it is known to the locals as the Périgord, and the inhabitants call themselves Périgourdins. The region splits into four. In the north is the Périgord Vert, with towns such as Brantôme and Ribérac, and the river Dronne. The Périgord Blanc covers the centre, with the river Isle running through it. The Périgord Pourpre is in the lower reaches of the Dordogne and includes the town of Bergerac - famous for its wines. Last, but not least, is the Périgord Noir in the east, leading to the Massif Central. The river Dordogne bisects it and encompasses towns such as Sarlat-la-Canéda, Domme and les Eyzies-de-Tayac.

The weather can be delightful, maybe nine hours of sunshine on a summer's day. However, it is sometimes forgotten that it can also, particularly in winter, be cold and wet! These words are not to put you off, just to make you aware, as this is a wonderful place to live in or visit.

The city of Bordeaux was built on the bank of the river Garonne and has been a major port since pre-Roman times. It is a city of art and history, and there is some wonderful 18th century architecture, including the magnificent Place de la Bourse and the Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux. Take a walk along the waterfront and see the many elegant and classical façades. Bordeaux is synonymous with the word wine, and the region produces world famous fine clarets from the Médoc and St. Emilion for example, as well as the wonderful sweet wines from Sauternes and Barsac.

To the south of the region is Pau, a university town with its famous chateau standing proudly at the top of the town. Take a stroll along the long Boulevard des Pyrénées with its wonderful views both of the gardens below and of the mountains - often snow-capped all year.

'Bastide' towns are an important feature of the region. They were founded in the 13^th century to provide security and safety for the residents as well as promoting trade. These towns, although not heavily fortified when constructed, acquired fortifications later to repel both the English and French, especially during the Hundred Years War. Typically they contained a covered market, a church and sheltered arcades. Some fine examples remain to this day.

VIEW ALL PROPERTIES

As well as providing some very general information, these notes reflect my own impressions following many visits to France. They are, however, no substitute for the very good and interesting books which are available. William Pearson©