The perfect base from which to explore the rich historical and cultural delights of the Dordogne

From Maison Secrete you can explore beautiful historic villages, wonderful vineyards, sumptuous markets, chateaux, delightful evening food markets, ancient cave paintings and country walks.

Despite being surrounded by beautiful Dordogne countryside we are just a 5 minute drive (7 minute cycle) away from Monpazier, one of France’s most beautiful towns (Plus Beaux Village).  The 13th century medieval centre is considered by many as the best of the bastide towns.

Aside from being a fabulous place to visit, Monpazier can also provide most of your daily needs. There are 2 supermarkets, 2 bakeries, a pharmacy, a post office, a bank (with ATM) a butchers and multiple other retail outlets. There are also numerous restaurants & cafes.

  • Markets

    We are lucky to have so many great markets locally. each provide a unique offering of local foods and crafts.  Monpazier market is on Thursday mornings, Villereal (Saturday), Issigeac (Sunday) &  Sarlat (Saturday/Wednesday). The markets do get very crowded in July & August so we recommend an early start.

  • Marchés Gourmands (Night Food Markets)

    Most local villages host Marchés Gourmands through the summer months, which provide a chance to sample local foods and music. Picnic tables are provided, just take along your plates and cutlery, and soak up the atmosphere. It can get busy in peak season so we’d recommend an early start to guarantee a table.

  • Walks & Cycle Rides

    There are some nice walks locally and a little further afield. The GR37 linear route through the Dordogne runs along our western boundary or there are shorter circular trips on the yellow marked walking routes.

  • The Dordogne River; Beaches and Canoes

    Our nearest river beach is at Le Buisson and is nice spot for a picnic by the river and a swim. There are numerous canoeing rental places all along the Dordogne so just take your pick.

  • Caves & Cave Paintings

    Font De Gaume prehistoric caves, Les Eyzies

    Lots of prehistoric caves to explore locally, our favourite is the Font de Gaume, the last cave with original prehistoric paintings open to the public. Entry is limited to 200 people per day so booking is essential. There are other caves in the Les Eyzies area as well as the National Prehistory Museum.

    https://tickets.monuments-nationaux.fr/fr-FR/familles?site=2117969240920404140

  • Wine Tasting in Monbazillac - Chateau Belingard

    No trip to the Dordogne is truly complete without sampling some of the local Bergerac wines. Monbazilla is such a beautiful wine area, it’s almost worth going just for the scenery …..almost! There are plenty of vineyards for tastings but we recommend Chateau Beingard, a really friendly, family run vineyard with some great Bergerac wines at affordable prices.

  • Vignoble des Verdots

    Visit this beautiful small vineyard in the heart of the Dordogne countryside and taste some really great Bergerac wines. Their cellar is open most of the year for tastings by appointment plus they have various other events such as a summer fete and picnic walks through the vines. https://www.verdots.com

  • Les Jardins de Marqueyssac

    Beautiful, picturesque gardens on top of a rocky spur, offering walkways amidst the sculptured boxwoods and impressive panoramic views over the Dordogne valley. The gardens are illuminated at 19h every Thursday evening in July and August. https://www.marqueyssac.com/

There are so many wonderful places to visit locally that its amost a shame to single out recommendations. All of the Bastide villages have their own special character so it is worth visiting a number of them if you can. Here are a few of our favourite places.

  • Monflanquine

    Monflanquine is a beautiful Bastide village perched on a hill with commanding views. The main square is often lively especially if there is a market or an event.

    https://www.monflanquin.fr/

  • Issigeac

    A beautiful medieval town that is quite different from the Bastide villages. It’s nice to visit anytime but especially comes alive for the Sunday Market.

    https://www.pays-bergerac-tourisme.com/fr/decouvrir/cote-pierres/villages-de-caractere/issigeac

  • Beynac-et-Cazenac

    A gorgeous village stepping its way up a rocky promontory alongside the Dordogne River. It’s reputedly the location for the film Chocolat. It’s really worth a visit.

    https://en.sarlat-tourisme.com/discover-sarlat-and-the-perigord/villages-around-sarlat/what-is-there-to-do-and-see-in-beynac-et-cazenac-the-must-sees/

  • Le Château de Biron:

    So many châteaux to choose from but this one is definitely worth a visit and is with easy reach, even by bicycle if you are feeling energetic. https://www.chateau-biron.fr/fr