Bergerac, the second-largest town in the Dordogne with 30,000 inhabitants, is the capital of south-west Périgord and only a 15 minute drive away. The district known as the land of the vineyard or Purple Périgord is vast in it’s diversity. The history of Bergerac since the Middle Ages can be summed up in three words: the river, the wine and the bridge. Bergerac today is a town bustling with life and vitality, especially in the pedestrianised area of the old quarter, where there is an abundance of cafes, restaurants, markets, boutique and antique shops. You will be enchanted by the richness and originality of its museums, the variety of produce and wonderful aromas of its markets, the exquisite flavours of the cuisine and wines, and the wonderful warmth and generosity of its people.
The fireworks on Bastille Day are truly memorable. In and around Bergerac the 100,000 acres of vineyards produce 75 % of Dordogne’s wine production. The cellar of every “wine cooperative” is open for tasting, particularly the Bergerac and Monbazillac cellars which are very popular with visitors. The wines of AOC Bergerac include, Pécharmant, one of the most highly appreciated by connoisseurs. the fruity Rose, the white and red Côtes-de-Bergerac and the mellow white Montravel. To the south there is the very well known Monbazillac, and, around Sigoulès, Saussignac.