EUROBOUND SPOTLIGHTS LESSER-KNOWN FRANCE

Dordogne Region Reflects History, Heritage

Eurobound has unveiled a new vacation package to France, focusing on the lesser-known Dordogne region.  Designed for repeat travelers, the 7-day/6-night package includes luxury apartment accommodations in Sarlat, customizable private tours throughout, plus private airport transfers from Bordeaux on arrival and to Toulouse on departure.   Per person price is $6,095, based on double occupancy,

Prehistoric caves, medieval villages, and cliffside castles characterize the Dordogne region of southwest France.  The medieval fortified town of Sarlat is the home base for Eurobound guests as they explore the region through a series of private tours.  Accommodations are in a luxury, one-bedroom apartment– complete with period furnishings and a private balcony –in the heart of the town’s gaslit pedestrian center.

The itinerary begins with a private, introductory walking tour of Sarlat, with its Benedictine abbey, cobblestone streets, timber-front houses, markets, Renaissance mansions, squares, and courtyards.  Eurobound guests then explore the region and its rich history through a series of four full-day, private tours.

Historic Cave Paintings and Underground Galleries

Pre-history dating back to 15,000 B.C. comes alive on a full-day visit including the National Prehistory Museum in Eyzies-de-Tayac and Lascaux IV, in Montignac.  The Lascaux IV cave complex is a complete replica of the original paleolithic caves, known worldwide for their copious cave paintings.  Eurobound guests also explore Rouffignac Cave by electric train with its nearly 5 miles of underground galleries.

Villages of the Dordogne Valley

Another full-day tour focuses on the villages of the Dordogne Valley.  Featured are Castlenaud-la-Chapelle and its 12th century castle, Domme with its caves and panoramic views, plus Beynac and the medieval castle on the north bank of the Dordogne River.  Highlighting the day is a boat ride on the Dordogne River from La Roque-Gageac, considered one of France’s most beautiful villages.

Medieval Périgueux

A full-day visit to the town of Périgueux covers the town’s Gallo-Roman district and its Vesunna Museum featuring an impressive collection of archeological artifacts. Eurobound guests then explore the winding alleys, squares, and stone mansions of the town’s historic center.

Padirac and Rocamadour

The final day’s excursion features Padirac Chasm and Rocamadour Village.  At Padirac Chasm, a 338-ft. deep cave system, Eurobound guests descend by elevator nearly 250 ft. for a boat ride through the subterranean cave system.  The medieval village of Rocamadour–a UNESCO World Heritage site–tops off the visit, with its imposing Grand Staircase leading from the lower village to the cliffside Cité Religeuse sanctuaries.

History and Authenticity

“The Dordogne region has maintained its authenticity and rich heritage.  It’s like stepping back into history,” says Brigitte Armand, Eurobound president. 

“This itinerary is an immersion into the history of one of France’s lesser known, but fascinating areas.    Using Sarlat as home base means that travelers only must unpack once, making for a convenient and fulfilling stay,” adds Jeff Roy, the company’s Vice President, Sales & Marketing.

More Information

For more information on this itinerary and other independent packages to France plus destinations throughout Europe, call 888-672-7476 toll free.  Or email reservations@eurobound.com. Further information on Eurobound is available on the company’s web site: Eurobound.com.

Now in its 26th year, the company provides distinctive, tailored packages and itineraries for independent travelers and small groups to Europe and beyond, sold exclusively through travel advisors.

For two consecutive years Atout France, the French Tourist Office, named Eurobound “Tour Operator of the Year,” as voted by travel professionals. Eurobound is also the recipient of Switzerland Tourism’s bi-annual Gold Flower Award in recognition of the company’s professionalism, innovation, and cooperation.

Photo: Sarlat, France. Boris Stroujko for Shutterstock