On the recommendation of Thomas (who speaks some English) the son of our hosts Alain & Nicole, we decided to take a trip over to Sarlat-la-Canéda. As it was two hours away we took a motorway for the first time since we picked up the car. Travelling at the suggested speed of 130 km was a bit too fast for us so we sat in the slower lane and plodded along at about 115km. We were basically left behind by most cars.

Sarlat was very busy when we arrived as the town markets were on. Probably should have checked that before we left as we didn’t get to see the town itself at its best. Nevertheless the markets were impressive and abuzz with visitors walking the 900 metres through the main streets and that doesn’t include the side streets. Everything from clothing, bags, knives, trinkets and food were available.

The usual deliciousness was on offer.

We spent most of our time in the Medieval Centre of Sarlat where most of the buildings are from the 15th and 16th centuries. They are quite a different style of architecture to the other towns and cities we have visited. Little streets are crammed with restaurants, cafes and shops and are a delight to wonder through.

We passed the impressive village of Beynac-et-Cazenac on the homeward journey off the motorway.

And we stopped off at Bergerac for a quick visit.

As we arrived the little tourist train was about to leave so we jumped aboard for a quick tour.

Tomorrow we are off to explore the Medoc and it’s fabulous Chateaux.