The Dordogne department has four distinct territories.

In the north you will find ‘Périgord Vert’ which derives its name from its many green valleys, covered with trickling streams. Its here that you’ll find the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. The major towns are Brantome, Nontron and Riberac. 

In the centre of the department is 'Périgord Blanc', so called because of its limestone plateaux. It contains the capital of the Dordogne, Périgueux.

In the south-west corner you’ll find the newly identified ‘Périgord Pourpre’. The name comes from the area’s grapes, which are put to good use in Bergerac, the capital of this wine producing region. The area was of great strategic significance during the hundred years war. You’ll find a number of fortified towns, castles and chateaux built by both the English and the French here.

In the south-east you’ll find 'Périgord Noir', a territory not quite as sinister as the name suggests. Deep valleys and ancient forests make this a very magical place in which to spend some time. It contains the regional capital of Sarlat-la-Caneda. A visit to one of the many prehistoric caves will give you an idea of how the Dordogne's original inhabitants used to live. Whilst Paris has the best art galleries, you can’t beat the Dordogne’s 30,000 year old cave paintings.