The best traffic-free bike rides around La Gonterie-Boulouneix

An information panel describes the special features of the bell tower, which was built in the style of a campanile, structurally separate from the church on a rocky outcrop. Although its exact construction date is unknown, it is said to be the undisputed oldest bell tower in France.

The natural setting: Bordered by the Côle: Saint-Jean-de-Côle is surrounded by nature, with the small Côle river running through the village, offering bucolic and green landscapes. Hiking and walks: The surroundings of the village are full of trails for hiking enthusiasts. These paths allow you to explore the countryside of the Périgord Vert, its forests, and its meadows, while enjoying the calm and beauty of nature. Events and Crafts: Medieval festivals: The village regularly organizes events such as medieval festivals that recreate the atmosphere of the Middle Ages with costumes, shows and craft markets. Local crafts: Saint-Jean-de-Côle is also home to several local artisans and artists who offer their works and creations, whether pottery, textiles or gastronomic products. Why Visit Saint-Jean-de-Côle? For its medieval charm: Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Jean-de-Côle offers a unique setting with its historic buildings, cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. For history: The Romanesque church, the Château de la Marthonie, and the bridge bear witness to several centuries of history, transporting visitors to another era. For the surrounding nature: In addition to its heritage, the village is an ideal starting point for exploring the countryside of the Périgord Vert, between walks and discoveries of the local fauna and flora. Saint-Jean-de-Côle is therefore an essential destination for those who wish to combine historical and natural heritage, while enjoying the calm and beauty of a Périgord village.

Saint-Jean-de-Côle, located in the Dordogne, is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Nestled in the heart of the Périgord Vert, this small medieval village seduces with its picturesque architecture and peaceful atmosphere. It is a true jewel of the Périgord heritage, offering visitors an enchanting setting to walk and discover local history. Points of Interest in Saint-Jean-de-Côle: Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church: Romanesque Church: The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Church, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, is a magnificent example of Périgord Romanesque architecture. It is distinguished by its dome-shaped bell tower and its imposing porch. Interior decoration: The interior is sober but impressive with its restored frescoes and its dome, offering an atmosphere imbued with spirituality and history. The Château de la Marthonie: Renaissance Castle: This castle stands proudly on the main square of the village. Built from the 12th century and remodeled during the Renaissance, it once served as a residence for the lords of the region. With its towers and elegant facades, it dominates the village and reinforces its medieval charm. Defensive architecture: The castle retains elements of fortification, recalling the time when it served as a defense against invasions. The Roman Bridge: A little historical gem: This stone bridge, which crosses the Côle River, is a vestige of the village's medieval past. It is lined with small picturesque houses that give the impression that time has stood still. Place for a walk: The bridge and its surroundings are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering magnificent views of the village and the surrounding countryside. Half-timbered houses: Traditional architecture: Strolling through the cobbled streets, visitors discover charming half-timbered houses with tiled roofs, typical of the rural architecture of the Périgord. These well-preserved houses bear witness to the centuries-old history of the village. Timeless atmosphere: Every street corner invites discovery, with flower-filled houses and small shaded squares.

Why Visit Boschaud Abbey? For its history: Boschaud Abbey is a fascinating testimony to Cistercian monastic life in the Middle Ages, offering insight into the spiritual and architectural practices of that time. For its ruined beauty: Despite its partially destroyed state, the abbey retains an undeniable charm. The remains still tell of its glorious past and offer a unique contemplative experience. For the natural setting: Surrounded by greenery and calm, the abbey is a perfect place for those seeking tranquility and contact with nature. Boschaud Abbey is a place full of mystery and serenity, where history and nature intertwine, offering a memorable experience to those who venture there.

The natural setting: Peaceful environment: The abbey is located in a peaceful natural environment, surrounded by woods and fields, making it a place of tranquility. Visitors can enjoy walks in the surrounding area while discovering the history of the site. Harmony with nature: In accordance with Cistercian ideals, the Boschaud site was chosen for its isolation and natural beauty, in symbiosis with the simple and spiritual life that the monks sought. Visiting the site: Access to the ruins: Visitors can freely explore the ruins of the abbey, which allows a better understanding of the layout of the original buildings, such as the cloister, the church, and the monks' dormitories. Sense of timelessness: Visiting the ruins offers a unique atmosphere, where the past seems suspended in time, with vegetation that has reclaimed its rights on certain parts of the building, adding a particular charm to the site. Activities in the surrounding area: Near Brantôme: Located a few kilometres from the town of Brantôme, also known as the "Venice of Périgord", a visit to Boschaud Abbey can be combined with other historical sites in the region. Hiking and walking: The surroundings of the abbey offer many hiking trails that allow you to discover the natural beauty of the Périgord Vert.

Boschaud Abbey is a fascinating historical site located in the Dordogne, not far from Brantôme. Founded in the 12th century, this Cistercian abbey, although partially in ruins today, retains a particular charm that attracts history and religious architecture enthusiasts. Points of Interest of Boschaud Abbey: History of the Abbey: Founded in the 12th century: Boschaud Abbey was founded in 1154 by Cistercian monks. It was built according to the principles of the Cistercian order, advocating simplicity and stripping down, in harmony with the surrounding nature. Periods of prosperity and decline: Over the centuries, the abbey experienced periods of prosperity, in particular thanks to the agricultural production of the monks, before suffering destruction, notably during the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion, which led to its gradual ruin. Architecture: Cistercian style: Boschaud Abbey is a fine example of Cistercian architecture. The remains show the simplicity and sobriety that characterize this order, with clean lines and limited use of decoration. Preserved elements: Although the abbey is in ruins, several architectural elements are still visible, including the foundations of the abbey church, Gothic arches and the walls of some parts of the abbey. The main structure of the church is particularly impressive, even in its ruined state.

Why Visit the Château de Bourdeilles? Visit Bourdeilles for its medieval castle, partly renovated during the Renaissance. For its rich history: The castle, with its two distinct parts – medieval and Renaissance – offers a unique perspective on several centuries of French history. For its panoramas: The castle tower offers magnificent views of the surrounding countryside, a highlight for landscape lovers. For its architectural heritage: This castle combines the charms of a medieval fortress and the elegance of a Renaissance palace, a rarity that makes it a must-see destination in the Dordogne. The Château de Bourdeilles is a captivating visit, offering both an immersion in history and an appreciation of the region's landscapes. It is a place where one can travel through the centuries while enjoying the natural charm of the Dordogne.

Don't miss this village, the most beautiful village in France At the foot of the drip wall of the choir of the church of Saint-Jean-de-Côle lie four respite graves. These are anthropomorphic sarcophagi the size of a newborn. In the Middle Ages, when infant mortality was high, stillborn or young children were often unable to be baptized. They could therefore not be buried in the cemetery, consecrated ground. Installed in respite boxes, they received directly from the roof of the church the dripping rainwater considered blessed. Baptism became effective after a few months and the children could finally be buried in the cemetery.