Lonlaygue is a small hamlet in Grand-Brassac, in the area called Perigord Vert in the Dordogne region of Acquitaine. The Dordogne area is full of places to visit, from medieval Bastide towns and spectacular chateaux to prehistoric sites. There are an estimated 1000 castles and fortified residences in this area, fought over for hundreds of years. If it is true that armies march on their stomachs, than the superb food of the region may be responsible for such a history: even the smallest shops or restaurants will provide the freshest, most carefully selected ingredients and dishes. Local markets can be found daily three kilometers away at Lisle and a particularly good one opens early every Friday at Riberac.

The Dronne, right at the bottom of the garden, is a charming river in the northern part of the Dordogne department passing through Brantome and Riberac. You will come across its charms in many places in the region as you travel around - for example at Tocane-St-Apre and Creysac Your picture: 'DSCN0429.jpg' has been inserted here ## Montagrier. Riding, water-sports, tennis, fishing and canoeing are available at several locations along the Dronne river and the countryside is ideal for walking or cycling. Our two trusty kayaks ar available for hire to allow you to explore the river!
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The streets and vineyards of St Emilion and the prehistoric caves of Lascaux are all within 90 minutes drive.

Aubeterre is a small town about 15 minutes from the house and has an amazing neolithic church inside the hill, as well as a puppet and butterfly museum. It also has a river beach for swimming.

Brantome is 15 minutes in the other direction, surrounded by its river. The town has several very good restaurants. Nearby is Chateau de Puyguilhem and Grotte de Champagnac-de-Belain.

Within 30 miles you can visit Perigueux, the Dordogne's capital, Bergerac. With 40 miles you will find Les Eyzies- the famous cave drawing; Sarlat - a famous walled town and Cognac - with its Brandy warehouses.

It takes about 1.5 hours to get to the West Coast from the house but is certainly possible to visit the sandy beaches of St George and Royan.

The characteristic scenery of the Dordogne is river valleys, rolling countryside covered with vineyards, old manor houses, farms, and chateaux. A center for prehistory, the Dordogne is home to some of the finest cave drawings ever discovered. The paintings near Les Eyzies are perhaps the most famous. The town of St. Emilion produces some of the best wine in the world; Monbazillac and Bergerac are also notable wine production centers.

Perigueux, the capital of this region, has a beautiful domed cathedral built on arches; it dates back to the late 1000s. Food lovers will find plenty of diversion: The Perigord region is famous for its foie gras and truffles. The Dordogne's best destinations are concentrated in a relatively small area, making it ideal for day trips from the your riverside retreat. Sarlat, Domme, and La Roque Gageac should not be missed. Whatever you choose to see here, your visit will surely be rich in culture and fine food.