Exploring the Dordogne: La Roque Gageac

Not far from Sarlat-La-Canéda-- the Medieval sandstone city described as the Perigord's "most beautiful city, a jewel of preservation" (Sixty Million Frenchmen Can't Be Wrong)-- the smaller hamlet of La Roque Gageac will take your breath away. Perched dramatically in the cliffs above the River Dordogne, the tan houses seem to blend in with the sandstone. In fact, many of the houses are built into the sheer rock face, incorporating the cliff into their construction.

The Fort Troglodyte, which dates from Medieval times, commands an excellent position above the winding river. There is a narrow footpath leading up the hill into the town, from where you can peer into gardens and marvel at the village's construction. The views of the Dordogne aren't too shabby either.