Bourdeilles XIIIc-XVIc. Open from the last week of January to the end of the Christmas holidays. Closed on Tuesday during the low season. Tel.0553037336.

Feudal fortress and Renaissance palace, former barony of the Périgord.Two chateaux of different periods built on a fortified bank:a medieval fortress 13th - 14th C.and a 16th century palace. Reputedly built and furnished for Catherine de Medici although never even visited by her. Painted decoration and a superb collection of early Italian, Spanish and Dutch furniture (15th - 19th C.)

Bourdeilles is to be found in Brantome, a picturesque island nestling in the arms of the river Dronne. Brantome, often called the Venice of the Périgord, has a wealth of Gallo- Roman and Carolingian remains: the famous bell tower, the oldest in France, is built on a rock overlooking the Abbey church which was rebuilt in the XIIIc and XVc. Inside the VIIIc Benedictine Abbey are three exhibition rooms and a museum housing the trace paintings of Ferdinand Desmoulin. Behind the Abbey, la Grotte du Dernier Jugement should be visited. This cave has the unique XVc bas-relief portraying the Last Judgement, and a crucifixion scene dating from the XVIc (closed in January). Local restaurants include the very charming 3 star Michelin Moulin de L'Abbaye and the well known Hotel Chabrol.