Montignac: click the image

ROCAMADOUR: just over the border in the Correze is one of the most gravity defying cliff clinging villages in this part of France. Many of the village buildings are built on the face of a vertical cliff. Rocamadour has a massive fort at the foot of the cliff, which once housed visiting pilgrims. There are wonderful views of the valley and the rooftops of Rocamadour from the summit of the cliff (you can either climb the steps or take the lift).

Hautefort

To the north of the Périgord blanc, on the border of the Périgord noir, perched high on a rock is the castle Hautefort. This castle was once a medieval fortress and probably built on an original Roman encampment. Unusual insofar as most chateaux were built on the plains. Home in the 12th century to Bertran de Born. He was a famous Troubadour who first sang "sirventès" (songs criticizing politicians of the time). On a lighter note this chateau was the location for the movie "Ever After". One of the most prestigious chateaux in the south west of France, and classified as a historical monument, it is surrounded by a park and gardens of exceptional beauty designed à l'anglaise. Superb furniture of the 17th and 18th century.

Visits: April to October every day. March and November weekends and national holidays. March : 14h to 18h  April/May: 10h to 12h30 and 14h to 18h30  June/July/Aug/Sept : 9h30 to 19h  Oct/Nov 11: 14h to 18h. Nocturnal visits in July and August. Guided tours in English, French and Spanish.

Tariffs :Chateau + gardens Adults: 8.5 euros Children (7-14): 4 euros Gardens Adults: 5 euros Children (7-14): 2,50 euros Also visit the ancient hospice and Museum of medicine in Hautefort. The château de Hautefort and the ancient village Hospice are rare examples of classic architecture of the Périgord. Tel: 0553505123 Web site