The Aquitaine region is most famous for its beaches and wine. It was named by the Romans who were impressed at the many rivers running through the land. It has, in the past, been ruled by the Kings of England.

These days, though, there is no doubt that this is a French region. Aquitaine enjoys great food and wine. Bordeaux is a major wine producing area, while the Bassin d’Arcachon, a natural inland sea with the largest beach in Europe, produces 90% of the country’s mussels. 

The Dordogne department belongs to Aquitaine and is France’s third largest department, covering 9060 square kilometres of scenic countryside and picturesque towns and villages. The department also boasts an incredible 4,000 chateaux, one-tenth of all the chateaux in France. Located in the south-west of the country, it is considered by many to be France's most beautiful area. 

It has a population of fewer than 400,000. Like many French departments, the Dordogne is named after the river that flows through it. Foie gras, duck and goose are regional specialities.