About Sarlat & surroundings
From the moment you awake in one of our historic luxury villas in Sarlat you’ll be faced with heritage charm at every turn. From Chateau de Castelnaud and Chateau de Beynac, to world-famous prehistoric cave art, Sarlat spans so many eras in its expansive sweep. The best pace to begin your exploration is with a stroll around the village’s cobblestone streets, which house beautiful craftwork and antique stores in well preserved medieval buildings.
Sarlat is also home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Lascaux cave. One of the best-preserved examples of prehistoric art, the cave has been sealed to protect its priceless images from decay. Luckily, it has been painstakingly reproduced, allowing visitors to experience the full ritual splendour of this haunting subterranean landscape. For an alternative perspective on the region, take a hot air balloon flight or try your hand at kayaking on the Dordogne River.
Sarlat is first and foremost a foodie’s paradise, not least because it’s home to the world’s rarest truffle, the black Perigord. Indulging in foie gras, grilled duck breast, walnuts and fine wine is a nightly delight here. Let us arrange a food sampling directly in the comfort of your villa. You’ll quickly learn how this small region has gained such a big gastronomic reputation!
Things to do in Sarlat & surroundings
- Discover the Valley of Dordogne (e.g. by boat in traditional Gabarres or canoeing down the river)
- Expolre the Caves of Lacaves or Caves of Pesques (pre-booking might be required)
- Drive to "the most beautiful village of France", La Roque St Christophe
- Savour famous French delicacies such as Foie Gras and Magret de Canard in one of the plenty Michelin-starred restaurants
- Visit the Eyrignac Gardens
Time Zone
GMT +1 hour
Language
French
Currency
The official currency is the Euro (€). Coins are available in 1 cent, 2 cent, 5 cent, 10 cent, 20 cent, 50, cent , €1 & €2 denominations. Notes are available in €5, €10, €20, €50, €100, €200, €500 denominations.
Money Matters
Travellers cheques are widely accepted for exchange or purchase in major cities, but in more rural areas, visit a bank to exchange them for Euros. Major credit cards are widely accepted here (though a limited number of merchants have American Express accounts) and ATM access is widespread. Exchange currency only at authorized outlets such as banks and hotels, and exchange only what you think you will spend in-country. Coins cannot be reconverted on departure. Save all receipts from any currency exchange transaction. You may be asked to produce them when you exit the country, and they are required if you intend to reconvert local currency.
Tipping Suggestions
Tips in restaurants are usually added on at 10/15 % of the bill. However, it is often a subject of controversy whether this amount actually goes to the waiter or not, therefore it is your choice whether to tip more.
