Sarlat le Caneda Travel Guide
Travel to Sarlat le Caneda - Narrows Streets and Saturday Market
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Sarlat is a beautiful, well-restored town in the Dordogne region. One of the most-loved towns in France its old centre dates from medieval and Renaissance times and comprises a maze of narrow streets with the roofs of the buildings made of ‘lauze’ – carefully cut stone.
The towns Saturday market is not to be missed as travellers will have the opportunity to sample some of the gastronomic delicacies of this region including black truffles, mushrooms, walnuts and pork delicacies.
Set in a beautiful landscape the area beyond the town is well worth exploring with the Vezere Valley, fantastic chateaux, the caves of Lascaux and many other attractions all begging to be explored.
The town was founded around the Benedictine abbey between 820 and 840 AD by Duke Pepin of Aquitaine. During the 100 Years War between the French and the English, Sarlat played a prominent part due it being well defended by the surrounding castles, despite this, the city became English in 1360.
More recently the city was saved from falling into decay by an extensive restoration plan launched in 1962 and today the picturesque lanes and medieval facades have made the town a popular draw amongst travellers to the south.
Attractions in Sarlat le Caneda
Along with other examples of beautiful buildings and architectural masterpieces, the Cathedrale St Sacerdos, is the main attraction in the town. The town’s Saturday market is one of the best in the region.
The local Mountain Church stands on a small hill above the town and dates from the 14th century.
Local vineyards produce excellent wine and many can be visited.
Chateau de Puymartin is situated on a steep hill, 8km north-west of Sarlat. Built in the late 13th century it has changed hands many times over the centuries. Of the treasures to be seen there are several Aubusson tapestries.
Château de Commarque, 15 km to the north of Sarlat has only recently been reclaimed from the earth by archaeologists and is the centre piece of a 13th century village that is now being rediscovered.
Les Grottes de Maxange are a labyrinth of caves, with an amazing number of formations, highlights of an underground tour.
Activities in Sarlat le Caneda
Spend a day to visit the town itself but a few days can be spent exploring the surrounding countryside and chateaux.
Relaxing
There are many eateries in the town in which you can sample local Perigord delicacies such as truffles and Toulouse goose, washed down with a good Cahor or Bergerac vintage!
Getting Around
It is very easy to get around Sarlat’s cobbled streets on foot.
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