What's On in the Dordogne this summer

What’s On this

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Summer in the Dordogne

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THE DORDOGNE’S ENGLISH-LANGUAGE NEWSPAPER

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2 Dordogne What’s On

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

Welcome Dordogne Périgord Tourist Board, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, would like to welcome all the readers to this summer guide of wonderful events and festivities here in this beautiful area of France.

English-speaking visitors and residents alike will find a wealth of interesting dates for their summer calendar.

There is inspiration for everyone from shopping for local produce in the evening markets to

classical concerts in scenic churches.

Dordogne Périgord is one of the largest and most picturesque departments in France as well as being steeped in a rich history with a wealth of listed historic buildings.

Here at the tourist board we invite readers to also go online to our English website www.enjoydordogne.co.uk and to look out for the brochure “Fête en Périgord” available in local tourist offices

to discover more about the area.

We would also like to wish you all a very happy summer “chez nous” in this beautiful part of the world.

DANIEL DEBAYE President, Dordogne Tourist Board

Why this guide?

THIS GUIDE is produced by the team behind The Dordogne Advertiser, the Dordogne’s only English-language newspaper.

Since we launched our newspaper in March 2009 we have heard many times that readers want more information on local events – and often regret only hearing about activities AFTER they have happened.

We bring you in this guide as much information as is available as we go to press on events from family days out to heritage and sports activities for you to plan outings and make the most of summer 2010 in this great area.

This is our first Dordogne What’s On this Summer guide and our aim is simple – to help both longstanding and new residents as well

as tourists find new events to enjoy. To make the guide easy to use we have divided it into months and then type of event. Our centre feature is all for families – see what our journalist finds as she tries out

Directrice de la Publication (Managing Editor): Sarah Smith Rédactrice-e en-C Chef (Editor-in-Chief) Sarah Smith The guide is published by British Connexion Ltd Registered offices: 12 rue Rossini, 06000 Nice 9 Orchard Gardens, Dawlish EX7 9HE www.connexionfrance.com Tel: 04 86 68 50 40

activities with her own children.

We welcome reader feedback on the events listed – and tell us if we have missed some – so that we can let others know and pass on tips for next year’s guide.

Please send your comments to info@dordogneadvertiser.com We would love to see your photographs, too.

Finally, we have outlined where possible events in English or where information is available in English but we at The Advertiser hope that you take the plunge and practise your French while out and about this summer. It’s all part of the French experience – enjoy!

SARAH SMITH Editor, Dordogne Advertiser

Useful Contacts EMERGENCIES Samu: 15 Sapeurs/ Pompiers: 18 Police-gendarmerie: 17 All services, from mobiles 112 HOSPITALS AND CLINICS Périgueux Hospital: 05 53 45 25 25 Emergency 24h/24: 05 53 45 26 38 Polyclinique Francheville: 05 53 02 11 11 Emergency 24h/24: 05 53 02 12 20 Out of hours chemist – 3237 http://tinyurl.com/24chemist Traffic http://tinyurl.com/24road Weather http://tinyurl.com/24meteo NATIONAL AND LOCAL NEWS The Connexion newspaper (Daily updates on France in English): wwww.connexionfrance.com The Dordogne Advertiser (Local news in English): www.dordogneadvertiser.com

Advertise with us If you would like your event featured in our 2011 What’s On guide or if you would like to advertise in the next guide – contact us on 04 86 68 50 40 or email b.giraud@dordogneadvertiser.com

Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or advertisement without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited. To the best of our ability we have checked the details of events listed here but please bear in mind that times and dates can change so we advise you to check beforehand.

The Dordogne Advertiser cannot accept liability for misinformation. The events listing is not exhaustive as so many events take place across the department. We cannot list them all but we present a varied selection of those on offer.

France, in English News, interviews, practical info and more www.connexionfrance.com

Register for Connexion’s weekly online newsletter

Find us in French newsagents or call 04 86 68 50 40 to subscribe

4 Dordogne What’s On June

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

What’s On June Get insider’s view of the top gardens

MARQUEYSSAC: Sculpted and a wonderful place to simply wander round

By Kirsten Stroud GARDENS across the Dordogne will be opening their gates and potting sheds for the annual Rendez-Vous aux Jardins.

Held on June 4, 5, and 6, the event will see around 2,000 gardens open their doors to visitors.

Throughout France private and public establishments will open up for keen gardeners or even just the curious to discover secret worlds.

This year’s theme is The Gardener and his Tools and activities will be offered to help people discover how the ancient

Egyptians and people from the Middle Ages worked the ground.

Among the places in the Dordogne taking part in this event are: Les Jardins de Marqueyssac, Vézac; Trémolat (exhibition of old gardening tools); Excideuil – private gardens will be open to the public; Les Jardins de l’Imaginaire, TerrassonLavilledieu; Jardins du Manoir d’Eyrignac; Jardins d’au Delà, Brantôme For an updated list of gardens visit http://blog. rendezvousauxjardins. culture.fr/

Photo: Les jardins de Marqueyssac ©Laugery – Bordeaux

JUNE is a month for enjoying the outdoors in the Dordogne and every year the Conseil Général, in partnership with local associations, organises a month of sporting events.

It is part of an effort to encourage people to enjoy the department’s natural resources and most of the sports on offer are free and open to those of different sporting abilities and ages.

The sporting month begins on May 30 in Périgueux with an afternoon of free water and land sports.

Along the river Isle from Chancelade to Trélissac you can try water-skiing, archery, quad bikes, trampolining, skate-boarding, riding, climbing, rowing, canoeing plus lots more. Open between 13.00 and 20.00.

For the rest of the month the programme is varied: Children aged 3 to 10 can try waterskiing on eight different dates and at just as many venues across the department.

Last year the Saignette family from Ste-Sabine took part in a family day organised at the quay at Bergerac where son Raphael tried water-skiing for the first time.

“Raphael was five then and it gave him the opportunity to try something new,” mum Corinne says. “He loved it and skied at the club in Trémolat twice a week throughout the summer.

“The day was great opportunity to try something new and a good way of

Photo: Bordeaux

Splash out a bit this summer

WATER CHOICE: Canoes and kayaks at Limeuil or you can copy this child learning to water-ski at Trémolat

getting to know the local sporting associations. My husband and I even tried archery for the first time.”

Call 06 73 80 37 23 or the club at Trémolat on 06 83 27 26 47 Ado’Vert is a chance for adolescents to discover outdoor sports and how they fit into sustainable growth. The June 26 event is from 16.00-22.00 in the old military camp at Savignac-

Les-Eglises.

Call 09 77 91 66 26 or salfej@wanadoo.fr All ages can try canoeing, climbing or riding on June 27 from 14.00-20.00 at Rouffiac, La Jemaye, St-Estèphe, Trémolat or Campagne.

Seniors have dedicated days on June 3 at Belvès and Le Bugue, June 17 at Montpon and June 24 at Castelnaud.

Call 05 53 45 40 20 Try gliding at Bassillac airport, Périgueux, on June 26-27. Open from 13.30-18.30 it is for over-16s.

Call 05 53 04 02 03 There are also events for individuals

and teams. Beginners can also do a triathlon at Rouffiac on June 27, from 10.00-noon. It involves a 2.5km run, 8km of cycling and 1km of canoeing.

Call 05 53 50 48 65 More accomplished athletes head for La Roche Chalais on June 26-27 for Raid Aprecote which has 80km of off-road running, biking and canoeing. Team entry is €30.

Call 05 57 24 18 13 There are also opportunities to take part in cycling and swimming (with fins) races, or join a non-competitive walk as there are plenty of those.

For more information on the sports offered call 05 53 45 40 20 or visit the website http://sports.cg24.fr

Dordogne What’s On June 5

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

Lascaux is celebrating its 70 years

Photo: AFP

LES EYZIES: Visitors see remains found in the caves round Lascaux in the Musée national de la Préhistoire des Eyzies-de-Tayac – which is Europe’s biggest with a collection of around six million objects

Family June 5 – Vélo pour tous, bike ride for 12-18 year olds, Champ de Foire, Piegut-Pluviers Call 05 53 60 58 13 Final day of Festival de la Vallée, shows for all ages and fireworks, town centre, St-Astier Call 05 53 02 41 99 June 6 – Walk from Issigeac to Eymet, leave 8.30 from Issigeac, bring a packed lunch.

At Eymet there will be a children’s illumination workshop from 14.30-18.30 and street show at 17.45 Call 05 53 23 74 95 Karate demonstration next to the river all day, Le-Pont-de-Vicq, Le-Buisson-de-Cadouin Call 06 70 28 18 80 June 11-13 – Fêtes Votive, nighttime animations, fairs, dances and fireworks, food available, Carlux and St-Cernin-de-l’Herm Call 05 53 29 71 08 (Carlux) 05 53 29 98 37 (Saint-Cernin) June 12 – Family walk in the World of Stone. The 10.6km walk looks at dolmens, dry stone walls, quarries and stone huts with a quarry visit. Possible to book a picnic lunch for €9 or bring a packed lunch. Leave from La Bodega restaurant, Limeyrat Call 05 53 06 35 10 June 12-13 – Les Fêtes de Bergerac, rugby tournament and various other sporting activities, games and activities for all the family.

Port de Bergerac Call 05 53 74 66 66

June 12-13 – Circus school, Place du Pré St Louis, Le Bugue Call 06 24 62 21 47 June 19 – Initiation in water skiing for children from three years old, Grand Étang, St-Saud-Lacoussière Call 06 07 96 71 80 Treasure Hunt and pizzas cooked in an outdoor pizza oven, 20.00, La Ferme de Parcot, Échourgnac Call 05 53 81 99 28 June 20 – Family walk, leave from Meyrals school car park Call 05 53 29 24 70 Fireworks display, Aubas June 25 – Sausage and chips evening in aid of the local school, Salle des Fêtes, Beaussac Call 05 53 56 83 15 June 27 – A family day of sport and relaxation, try rock climbing, canoeing, walking, archery, water ski-

“

We had heard that the show for the Battle of Castillon was amazing but nothing prepared us for what we saw – we highly recommend it to everyone now Mike and Janie Wilson Castillon-La-Bataille

ing for children. Étang St-Estèphe Initiation in rock climbing for children over eight years old, 9.00 -12.00, Montignac gymnasium.

Maximum 12 people, €5 Call 05 53 51 82 60 Scarecrow festival, 10.00 Ferme de Parcot, Échourgnac Call 05 53 81 99 28

Out and about Every Wednesday guided visits of Sarlat in English, 11.00, Tourist Office, Sarlat. Adults €5, 12-18 years €3, under 12s free Call 05 53 31 45 45 June 3 – 8km hilly walk, meet 14.00 Place de la Mairie, Bourniquel €2 Call 05 53 22 53 73 June 5 – 7km nocturnal walk with surprise stops for the meal, Grand Étang, St-Estèphe Call 05 53 60 74 75 5-6km walk to discover wild orchids, Saussignac, Price €3 Call 05 53 22 49 11 June 6 – Discovery walk for the insects and flowers of St-Barthélémyde-Bussière, bring magnifying glasses.

Call 05 53 55 36 00 Vélo pour tous, 30, 40 and 60km bike circuits for adults, Champ-de-Foire, Piegut-Pluviers Call 05 53 60 58 13 Walk to discover the locality, Auriac-du-Périgord Call 05 53 51 86 16 Walk leaving from Chapdeuil at 9.00 Call 05 53 90 45 82 June 8 – Cross country bike ride

FOUR teenagers found their own slice of history 70 years ago as they hunted buried treasure on a hillside and discovered the prehistoric Lascaux cave paintings.

Marcel Ravidat and his friends made the find in September 1940 when they descended into a tunnel and stumbled upon what has become perhaps the most famous cave in the world.

The cave complex was opened to the public after the second world war but had to be closed in 1963 as, due to people’s breath, the paintings had started to deteriorate.

It has never re-opened and it is a replica that you now visit.

June 5-6 will see events to mark the find with exhibitions and conferences. Saturday will also see the premiere of the film Ao, the last Neanderthal. On Sunday, take part in a cave painting workshop and learn about tools used by prehistoric man.

For more information visit www.tourisme-lascaux.fr through the Dordogne valley with visit to tobacco and nut productions.

Leave from St-Cyprien tourist office, Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book June 11 – Nocturnal walk, leave 20.15, Celles Call 05 53 91 35 11 Guided walk and visit to goose farm with snack at the farm. Leave 9.30 Place Charles de Gaulle, St-Cyprien Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book June 12 – 6km nocturnal walk with surprise stops for the meal, St-Barthélémy-de-Bussière Call 05 53 56 79 69 Wild food: Discover food in the wild, accompanied by a botanist, however, take a packed lunch. Meet 9.30 at Salle des Fêtes, Sergeac. €2 Call 05 53 51 82 60 8km walk in Monbazillac area, meet 14.00 at Monbazillac church Call 05 53 73 26 33 Walk to discover biodiversity of aquatic areas, commentary translated into English, Bring boots or walking shoes and waterproof clothing. Étang Grolhier, Piegut-Pluviers Call 05 53 55 36 00 June 12-13 – Clay pigeon shoot, Paleyrac Call 05 53 22 04 89 June 13 – 10km walk, leave 8.30 from mairie at St-Astier Call 05 53 54 03 38 12km Hilly walk, leave 9.00, Place de l’Eglise, Lavalade. Price €2 Call 05 53 73 26 33 8km and 14km walking circuits, picnic possible or eat at farm or restaurant, 9.00 Salle des Fêtes, Capdrot Call 05 53 22 69 40

6 Dordogne What’s On June

Fête accompli – now it’s time for fun A BRITISH village fête – held on a summer day to meet, share recipes, play sack races and have a good time – is less serious than the Dordogne fêtes which can last a whole weekend or more.

Like this one in Biron, they will have a meal and dance, probably pétanque, perhaps a brocante and a fireworks display as a grand finale.

With months of preparation and hundreds of volunteers they earn vital money for the village committee.

From June until September keep an eye out for the posters advertising ones in your area.

Photo: Ken Cooper

June 15 – Nocturnal walk, meet 20.00 Aire d’accueil, St-Pierre-deFrugie, Price €1 Call 05 55 78 88 38 June 18 – Three-hour guided walk on hillsides of Berbiguières, leave 9.30, Place Charles de Gaulle, St-Cyprien Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book June 20 – Walk Thiviers voie verte with activities, meet at St-Jean-deCôle voie verte car park.

Call 05 53 55 12 50 An easy walk to discover one of the seven hills of Périgueux. Entitled The Romans, it is 10km with guide; picnic available, to be paid for once a place is reserved Call 05 53 53 10 63 June 25 – Guided walk with visit and wine tasting at the historic Domaine de la Voie Blanche, leave 9.30, Place Charles de Gaulle, StCyprien Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book June 26 – Nocturnal gourmet outing, walk, horse and bike paths. Meal eaten at different places along way plus animations, Manzac-sur-Vern Call 05 53 54 24 40 June 29 – Cross country bike ride in the Dordogne valley of castles, leave from tourist office St-Cyprien Call 05 53 30 36 09 to book Every Wednesday in June – guided walk in Neuvic-sur-l’Isle area, leave 8.30 behind l’Anace Call 06 84 60 81 63

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

Nordic walking June 4 – Leave from mairie, Coux Call 05 53 30 36 09 to book Saint-Cyprien, leave from in front of the mairie Call 05 53 30 36 09 June 6 – leave from in front of the church, Orliac, €4 Call 05 53 29 98 37

June 12 – Saint-Mesmin Call 06 73 80 27 09 June 22 – Saint-Cyprien Call 05 53 30 36 09

Music June 2 – Organ and brass instruments recital, St Front Cathedral, Périgueux Call 05 53 53 10 63 June 4 – Recital by Léonce Bourliaguet choir, Salle des Fêtes, Thiviers Call 05 53 55 12 50 Organ recital with Frédéric Mayeur, 20.30, church, Montpon-Ménestérol Call 05 53 82 23 77 Concert with the quintet Oyfn Veg, in the church, St-Astier Call 05 53 02 41 99 June 5 – Music festival, modern music, Paussac-et-St-Vivien Call 05 53 91 35 11 Melodies from Spain, the church Piegut-Pluviers Call 05 53 56 40 22 June 6 – Organ and song recital, Salle Molière à L’Ancien Evêché, Sarlat.

Schumann Anniversary piano recital, at church, Piegut-Pluviers Call 05 53 56 40 22 June 11 – Jazz concert, at the church, St-Louis-en-l’Isle Call 05 53 81 04 53 June 12 – Three groups playing pop blues, singing a capella and pop folk, Lou Tuquet camp site, Fonroque Call 05 53 74 38 32 Seven musicians from the Bordeaux Aquitaine National Orchestra play Mozart, Rossini and Bruch, Salle de spectacles Salagnac June 13 – Choir concert, 20.30, Monsac Free concert with Amitié Musicale Neuvicoise, Grignols church June 19 – Classical music recital, vocal and piano, at the church, Siorac-en-Périgord Call 05 53 31 63 51 Piano recital by Lara Liu, at the church, Nantheuil Call 05 53 55 12 50

June 20 – Fête des pères en chansons, tribute to Father’s Day through songs sung by Yull and Janis, Relais de Compostelle, Saint-Avit-Sénieur Call 05 53 27 24 43 Violinist Tchijik Vadim plays Beethoven, Prokofiev and Lekeu, with aperitif, at church, Sigoulès, €12 Call 05 53 58 48 16 June 21 – Women’s choir Music en Vrac, église de Temniac, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 45 45 June 24 – French pop singer Christophe Mae in concert at the Palio, Boulazac, Périgueux Call 05 53 02 40 80 Flute and harp concert, 20.30, salle des fêtes Sarrazac Call 05 53 62 50 18 June 25 – Concert organised by l’ACFAA, Association Culturelle Franco-Anglaise Aquitaine, choir, organ and harp, at the church, Eymet Call 05 53 23 74 95 Jazz concert, Salle des Fêtes, Villars Call 09 64 09 95 91 Vocal group Vottovoce, at the Abbatiale, Paunat Call 05 53 73 55 85 June 26 – L’EvolutiF’estival, Local bands from 12.00 to 16.00, DJs, hip hop, French songs, rock, swing and electro. Castelnaud-La-Chapelle Call 05 53 29 51 21 Renaissance and Baroque concert, Chapelle St Benoît, Sarlat Call 05 53 28 30 20 June 27 – Le Bugue choir recital, 17.00, at the church Call 05 53 02 75 80

Art June 1-30 – Exhibition on art and antiquity with documentary and ethnographic films, every Thursday, 21.00, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 29 17 01 June 4-27 – Aux Frontières de l’Himalaya, At the frontier of the Himalayas, Moulin du Pont, Montagrier Call 05 53 91 35 11 June 5 – Opening evening of exhi-

Dordogne What’s On June 7

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

bition celebrating 70 years since discovery of the Lascaux caves, film and debate, 18.00, Montignac Call 05 53 51 82 60 June 7-27 – Exhibition of pastels by artist Martine Bauduin, Vitrine du Périgord, Terrasson-Lavilledieu Call 05 53 50 37 56 June 7-20 – Exhibition of knife oil paintings by artist, Jean-Louis Serodes, Maison du Tourisme, Eymet Call 05 53 23 74 95 June 11 – Four painters exhibit their work at the pavilion at the entrance to the château, Excideuil Call 09 52 68 95 56 June 11-22 – Exhibition of work by students of the Crayon Vert workshops, La Fabrique, St-Astier Call 05 53 02 41 99 June 12-13 – Exhibition of photographs of flowers, Salle des Jeunes, St-Front-de-Pradoux June 12-18 – Exhibition of painted porcelain by Mme Chouquet, Réfectoire des Moines, Brantôme Call 05 53 05 80 63 June 15-August 15 – Exhibition by poster artist Alain Carrier, Ancien Evéché, Sarlat June 16-24 – Photography exhibition, Je photographie mon village, Free entrance, Château Excideuil Call 09 52 68 95 56 June 20 – Périgord, terre occitanne, Point I, La-Coquille Call 05 53 55 23 62 June 26 – Patchwork exhibition,

Longest day rings with music THE Fête de la musique is no ordinary music festival. Firstly, unlike most others, it is free and is open to both amateur and professional musicians. It is also held in different locations in the department.

Created in 1982 by the Ministry of Culture, every June 21 sees France come alive with concerts from classical to rock, in small village venues to stadiums.

Fête de la Musique offers the chance to see institutions such as orchestras and opera companies perform in unusual locations and also to discover new talents.

This year’s theme is Musique au Féminin to honour the creativity and struggle of women in the Salle Communale, Eyzerac Call 05 53 55 12 50 June 27 – Dimanche ap’art, Tapas and aperitif, collage workshop with Gwenaëlle followed by clown show with the Vertige group and concert with Aqui l’Tour. Sadillac Call 09 50 47 24 24 Until June 9 – From graffiti to invented writing, 10 Rue Arago, Périgueux, Call 05 53 46 61 91 Until June 18 – Exhibition of art

by Lionel Castillon, Tourist office,

music business not only as singers and musicians but also as composers and orchestra conductors.

Where to find the events: June 19: Piégut-Pluviers; St Pierre de Frugie; St-Astier; BouteillesSt-Sébastien; Audrix; St-Pardouxla-Rivière; Le Bugue; Lalinde; Limeuil; June 20: St-Mesmin; Bayac; Ribérac; St-Germain-duSalembre June 21: Siorac-en-Périgord; Terrasson-Lavilledieu; Coux-et-Bigaroque; Mussidan; Échourgnac; MontponMénestérol; Rouffignac-StCernin; Le Bugue; Montignac June 25: La Chapelle-Grésignac Les-Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil Call 05 53 06 97 05 June 5-September 4 – Every first Saturday of the month, outdoor art exhibition, Parc Gabriel Forestier, Eymet Call 05 53 74 07 57

Other June 5 – Market parade, picnic at l’Abbaye-Sante-Claire, cultural afternoon, diner and dance, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 45 45

June 6 – Village meal, spit-roast over wood fire, must pre-book, Place du Village, Grignols Call 05 53 54 14 37 June 5-7 – Beer Festival, SalignacEyvigues Call 05 53 28 84 17 June 5 – Fly fishing, Camping du Val de la Marquise, Campagne Call 05 53 06 90 01 June 5 – Meal and Bandas group, Plaine des Jeux, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 45 45 June 6 – Tree festival, exhibition and activities, St-Avit-Sénieur Call 05 53 22 39 12 June 12 – Paella evening, 20.00, Archignac, Must pre-book Call 06 28 92 16 68 June 19 – Raid Isle 24, sports trek, cross country, mountain bike and canoe, teams of two, over-16s. Price €20/team. Trek crosses Ménesplet, Montpon, Le Pizou and Moulin-Neuf.

Leave from the Mairie, Ménesplet Call 05 53 82 23 77 June 20 – Clafoutis fair, artisans and brocante, Bussière-Badil Call 05 53 56 63 38 Taste and Artisan Fair, Maison de la Dronne, Montagrier Call 05 53 91 35 11 June 26-27 – Wine and gastronomy festival plus brocante, Chaleix Call 05 53 52 83 35 June 27 – Horse show, Beaumont-du-Périgord Call 06 82 34 28 92

8 Summer What’s On special

Dordogne Adve

Tried and tested –Dordogne’s best d With the long school holidays here, Janice Moody and her two daughters, above, have tried out the best ways to keep children amused in the Dordogne this summer

Culture/Education Château Castelnaud THIS museum is dedicated to the Middle Ages and has a large collection of arms and armour.

Films and interactive learning devices show how fortifications and war techniques evolved – and there are war machines on the walls.

In summer there are events such as fencing demonstrations (children over seven can take part), guided visits with actors and story-telling.

Comment: Most visited castle in south-west France, the site is very well presented and educational.

Great views along the river valley.

Tips: Do not take a pushchair.

Combine a visit with a riverboat trip from La Roque Gageac.

Situation: Between La Roque Gageac and Vézac.

Le Bournat village A HIGHLIGHT of this re-creation of local life in the last century is a working windmill, with demonstrations of crafts such as pottery, bread and lacemaking.

You can dress in typical clothes from the 1900s and have your photograph taken. There are programmed workshops and live entertainment in summer. This is also a restaurant and picnic area.

Comment: A great place for a leisurely day. My children loved the woodturning demonstration, which made a spinning top.

They also liked the old-fashioned fair with non-motorised rides.

Tip: Takes a minimum of two hours – longer if you do the workshops which you must book when you arrive.

I would advise allowing the best part of a day.

Situation: Le Bugue, by the river.

Sport related Canoeing THERE are numerous points along the rivers in the Dordogne where you can rent a canoe.

Life jackets are provided and water-

NOTE: 1) All venues have been tried and tested with the exception of those marked (*) 2) Opening times vary according t tight containers for valuables can be rented. Canoes can take up to four people.

Comment: Fantastic day out for all the family and it is not a disaster if you fall in as the summer river level is normally low.

It is shallow enough to stand up in the water.

Tips: Take lots of sun protection and shoes to use in water for beaching the canoe or swimming.

Book ahead at popular locations in peak season. Take a camera for the best views of the castles.

You need one strong person per canoe as the water doesn’t normally move quickly and there’s a lot of paddling involved.

Allow a day if you want to be able to stop at a beach for a swim.

Swimming pools Aqua-park in Bergerac has three different pools as well as a water slide.

Bouncy castle, beach volley, table tennis, snack bar (fast food) and picnic area.

Tips: Worth arriving in the morning – it is quieter. You can stay as long as you like or leave (get your hand

stamped) and come back. By 3pm it starts to get busy.

Rent a boxe (two loungers, two chairs, small table and parasol) for a little extra, it’s well worth it.

Situation: On D936 from Bergerac to St-Foy-la-Grande.

Aquacap in Périgueux boasts numerous pools, water slides plus a Jacuzzi, hammam and sauna.

Tips: Vending machine for caps and goggles. Family changing rooms.

Hairdryers. Most public pools ban shorts and Bermudas.

Situation: From town centre follow signs for the hospital then Champcevinel.

Animal related Aquarium WITH more than 6,000 different types of fish in 30 different pools this will keep the children entertained.

There is also a reptile house with snake pit and an iguana park. Snack bar and shop.

Comment: It is not that big but is constantly updated and well supplied with interesting species.

Tip: You only need a few hours here

so it is easily do-able if you combine a visit with an afternoon at Le Bournat next door.

Situation: Next to Le Bournat village, by the river at Le Bugue.

Nature Jardins de Marqueyssac THE sculptured boxwood bushes are the result of the work of generations of the same family.

For children there is a wood-turning demonstration, play areas, a maze and workshops (masks, picture frames etc).

Every morning during July and August (except Saturdays) there is a rock-climbing introduction for children aged over-6.

Candlelit evenings every Thursday during the summer. Restaurant and picnic area.

Comment: This is a relaxing place if you like strolling, while providing plenty of entertainment for the children in clean, natural surroundings.

Tip: Nice and cool for a summer’s afternoon to get a respite from the heat.

Situation: Vézac

Summer What’s On special 9

ertiser June 2010

days out for kids (and in, if it rains) Contact details Château de Castelnaud Tel: 05 53 31 30 00 www.castelnaud.com Le Bournat Tel: 05 53 08 41 99 www.lebournat.fr Canoe-Kayak Port Ste Foy Tel: 05 53 24 86 12 www.galo24.com Aquapark, Bergerac Tel: 05 53 58 33 00 www.aquapark-aquitaine.com Aquacap, Périgueux Tel: 05 53 02 90 29 www.perigueux-city.com Aquarium Tel: 05 53 07 10 74 www.aquariumperigordnoir.com Jardins de Marqueyssac Tel: 05 53 31 36 36 www.marqueyssac.com Gouffre de Proumeyssac Tel: 05 53 07 27 47 www.perigord.com/proumeyssac

“

The atmosphere at the Félibrée is incredible Christian Lafay Périgueux

to the month. Please check the relevant site beforehand. 3) For a full programme of events check the relevant website Gouffre de Proumeyssac FIFTY metres underground, this crystal cathedral is immense.

Visits are by guided tour which takes about 45 minutes. Light and sound show. Outside cave there is a geological area, forest pathway, bar, shop and picnic area.

Comment: Very impressive with plenty of ducking and weaving round stalactites and stalagmites.

Tips: The cave is extremely busy in July and August. Ring beforehand to pre-book tickets to avoid a long wait.

Take a jumper as it is cold.

Audio guide headsets have commentaries in a variety of languages.

Situation: Le Bugue. Signposted from the centre of town.

If weather is bad Cinema THE Dordogne has numerous cinemas with the latest films. The largest is in Périgueux (Place Francheville), Cap Cinéma, which shows films in 3D. Plenty of eateries nearby.

Bowling THERE are alleys at Bergerac, Sarlat

(*) and Trélissac (*). All have pool tables, bar and restaurant.

Shoes and bowls are available for children from about 6 upwards (at Bergerac from size 28, at Sarlat from size 28 and at Trélissac from size 31).

Les Petits Castors, indoor play area, Bergerac For children up to 12. Bouncy castles, climbing area and an area for toddlers. Situated next to Aquapark and behind Bergerac Bowling.

Shows The Battle of Castillon AN unforgettable spectacular show re-enacting the battle that ended the Hundred Years War. Lasting two hours and with 800 volunteers with 500 actors and 50 riders plus animals.

A floodlit hillside is the stage.

Tip: The show starts at 10.30pm but is so enthralling the kids can’t possibly fall asleep. Open-air diner and entertainment from 7.30pm.

Situation: The town of Castillon is easily reached on the D936 from either Libourne or Ste-Foy-LaGrande.

Worth visiting Karting, Bergerac CHILDREN must be aged 7 years upwards and are given all sorts of physical supports to ensure their safety in the karts. Sessions are 10 mins.

Groups can be catered for. Bar. The track is only open from 1-8pm in the summer. There is another circuit at Teyjat, near Beaumont (*).

Tip: If a group has already reserved, the circuit is closed for their use so it is best to ask beforehand to avoid a long wait.

Situation: On ring road on southern side of Bergerac, between the LeClerc and Mercedes garage roundabouts.

Zoo de Mescoules, Sigoulès SMALL reptile house. Touch a snake or even a baby crocodile.

Situation: off D933 between Eymet and Bergerac (3km from Sigoulés).

Grotte de Villars, Villars ANOTHER amazing underground world with prehistoric paintings.

Guided visits. Sound and light show.

Situation: North-east of Brantôme.

Capcinéma, Périgueux Tel: 05 53 03 92 91 www.cap-cine.fr/perigueux Bergerac Bowling Tel: 05 53 57 82 58 www.bowlingbergeracois.fr Bowling Losmoz, Sarlat Tel: 05 53 31 24 77 www.losmoz.com Snook Bowl Palace, Trélissac Tel: 05 53 08 55 68 www.snook-bowl-palace.com Les Petits Castors, Bergerac Tel: 05 53 23 99 12 www.les-ptits-castors.com Battle of Castillon Tel: 05 57 40 14 53 www.batailledecastillon.com Bergerac Karting Tel: 05 53 74 15 04 www.bergerac-karting.com Circuit Karting du Périgord Tel: 05 53 56 36 11 www.circuit-karting-perigord.com Zoo de Mescoules Tel: 05 53 22 69 52 www.zoodemescoules.com Grotte de Villars Tel: 05 53 54 82 36 www.grotte-villars.com Photo credits: Marqueyssac climbing-Laugery Bordeaux, Canoeing-David Balt (Canoe Port Ste Foy), Châteaux Castelnaud-Jean-marie Laugery, Aquacap-Denis Nidos, Aquarium-Dominique Meunier, Gouffre de Prouymessac

10 Dordogne What’s On July

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

What’s On July Family July 2 – Picnic on beach and outdoor cinema, Castelnaud-La-Chapelle Call 05 53 30 30 27 July 4-August 22 – Every Sunday, sailing at Trémolat. Six people maximum; from eight years, all levels, €5, 9.45 to 11.00 and 11.15 to 12.30 Call 05 53 22 89 33 July 5 – Treasure hunt, solve the clues, for children 6-8, Miallet. €3 Call 05 53 52 43 51 July 6, 20, 27 – Introduction to archaeological digging and prehistoric weapons, Teyjat Call 05 53 56 23 66 July 8 – Workshops for children 412 to make a flower from natural elements, Miallet Call 05 53 52 43 51 to book July 10 – Journée du pain d’épices, Gingerbread day, 10.00 Baking session bring your recipes and ingredients, cooked in wood oven, followed by picnic. La Ferme du Parcot, Échourgnac Call 05 53 81 99 28 July 11 – Bee and honey day, presentation on bees’ life in hives, harvesting honey and tasting sessions, La Ferme de Parcot, Échourgnac Call 05 53 81 99 28 July 14 – Introduction to archery, 14.00-16.00, rocher de l’Isle, Jumilhac-le-Grand, €5 Call 05 53 52 55 43 Children’s fishing contest 3-14 years; sign-in 14.30, starts 15.30, children must be accompanied, Lalinde Call 06 17 18 27 43 Free horse and carriage rides, 10.0018.00, Camping Le Pontet, St-Astier Call 05 53 54 53 78 July 15 – Children’s painting competition, 15.00, Montagrier Call 05 53 91 35 11 July 16-18 – Fête de la Plage, Friday night gourmet market, Saturday night election of Miss Castelnaud, Sunday fireworks Call 05 53 29 58 07 July 18-19 – Fête des Battages, tra-

Sacred music and Offenbach FRENCH art songs, sacred music and Offenbach’s Orpheus in the Underworld are just some of the treats in July and August from the Franco-American Vocal Academy, a group boosting up-and-coming vocal talents. The students train on the programme and then perform it, for free, to the public.

Dates include: July 29,30,31: Revue, Centre Départemental de la Communication, Périgueux Aug 5,6: Orpheus in the Underworld, Centre Culturel, St-Yrieix Details http://favaopera.org

History in the making as armies take to the field A HILLSIDE is the setting for a show that should not be missed: the re-enactment of the Battle of Castillon.

Performed outdoors, close to the original site of the battle, 500 actors and 50 on horseback recreate the battle which ended the Hundred Years War in 1453, endditional fete with traditional games for young and old, Halle de Belvès Call 05 53 29 10 20 July 25 – 15km family walk with stops; église St-Jacques to Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 July 27 – Treasure hunt and introduction to orienteering, Borrèze Call 05 53 28 81 93 July 28 – Paper maché workshop, Maison de la Dronne, Montagrier Call 05 53 91 35 11 July 30 – Festival for children, the first festival purely for children of all ages, La-Bachellerie Call 05 53 50 60 07 July 6-August 19 – Archery every Tuesday and Thursday, €4 from 10 years old, Grand Étang, St-Estèphe Call 05 53 60 74 75 July 6-August 21 – Horse riding every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 16.30 to 17.30 and on Saturdays 11.00 to 12.00. All levels from 10 years, Horse riding centre at Mérigaud, Étang St-Estèphe €5 Call 05 53 60 74 75 All July and August – 10-day canoe courses for eight to 18 year old including night-time torch outings.

Students must be able to swim, Club de Canoë, Planèze, Neuvic-sur-l’Isle Call 06 74 36 28 77 All July and August – water skiing for all ages, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, water sports base Trémolat, €10, €5 for under eights Call 05 53 22 89 33

Out and About July 1 – Guided walk with visit to a truffle producer, leave 9.30, Place Charles de Gaulle, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 30 36 09

ing England’s reign over Aquitaine and re-establishing French authority in the region.

Enjoy the stunts and special effects and get a glimpse of the Middle Ages with grape harvests, markets and other scenes.

Your breath will be taken away as the armies appear on the crest Hill and Valley walk, 8km circuit, take a picnic, leave 18.30, Place de la Mairie, Mauzac-et-Grand-Castang Call 05 53 22 53 68 July 3 – 12km circuit in hills around Lalinde, leave 9.00 from École Bleue, Lalinde Call 06 75 54 32 46 July 4 – Walk of 8km and Nordic Walk session of 15km at the same time as La Barjot cross country bike circuit.

Call 05 53 54 03 38 July 5 – Circuit for cross country bikes around Montfort, leave from Comptoir des Sports Call 05 53 30 36 09 8.2km guided walk around Bois de Monsieur, meet Place de la Mayade, Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 July 8 – Discovery walk to some

30 years of Vézère classics OPERA and instrumental recitals in the Château du Saillant or the cathedral in Tulle, Tsigane or gypsy music in the magnificent Orangerie arena in Pompadour are on offer in the Festival de la Vézère.

Held from July 7 to August 25, this 30th anniversary event has 18 evenings of concerts by internationally renowned artists such as classical pianist Kit Armstrong and French harpist Xavier de Maistre.

Get details of the programme and the timings on the English site at www.festival-vezere.com/ Call 05 55 23 25 09

of the opposite hill in preparation for a battle that saw 4,000 die.

It is a must-do event – take a picnic and wrap up warm as it can be a long wait and the nights do get chilly once darkness falls.

The battle is on the following dates: July 16, 17, 23, 24, 30, 31 August 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14 lesser-known heritage sites; includes a visit to a stone roof tiler and a duck and goose farm. Meet 9.00, Ferme de Combetenergue, Jaynac Call 05 53 28 81 93 St-Estèphe walk to discover plants and their uses, meet Café Le Petit Baigneur where coffee will be offered by the Tourist Office as will a snack at the end, Place de l’église, St-Estèphe Call 05 53 55 36 00 8km walk, meet Place de la Mayade, Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 8km walk along Dordogne river, bring picnic, meet 18.30 église StCybard, Mouleydier Call 05 53 73 19 58 July 9 – Nocturnal walk with meal, bring a torch, leave 20.00, Chaud, Savignac-Lédrier, €20 July 10 – Randonnée en Fête, walk to discover plants, take packed lunch or book a local producers picnic, meet 9.30 Salle des Fêtes’, Sergeac Call 05 53 51 82 60 Easy 7km walk around Château de Laxion, meet Place de l’église, Corgnac-sur-l’Isle Call 06 73 88 64 08 July 11 – Randonnée en Fête, 5, 8 and 12km walks to discover Isle river, Double Forest and the village history.

Meet 8.30, place de l’église, Le-Pizou Call 05 53 82 23 77 14km walk along the Vézère river, bring a picnic, meet 9.00, car park Route de Trémolat, Limeuil Call 05 53 24 90 42 July 12 – Guided cross country bike ride along the Dordogne with visit to nut and tobacco producers.

Leave from Tourist Office, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 30 36 09 6.7km walk on Monbos circuit. Meet

Dordogne What’s On July 11

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

9.00, Place de la Mayade, Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 Shadows and light walk, discover fauna and flora with an environmental consultant, Salignac-Eyvigues Call 05 53 28 81 93 July 13 – discover the rich history of Jumilhac-le-Grand with a 5km guided walk, meet Place du Château Call 05 53 55 36 00 July 14 – 10km nocturnal walk with firework display at the end, meet Place du Minage, Piegut-Pluviers Call 05 53 56 42 10 Bike ride with surprises in different hamlets along the way, possibility of a dance and meal at lunch time, fireworks at 22.30, Bussière-Badil Call 05 53 60 51 83 Themed walk L’eau: de la fontaine à l’étang/Water: from the fountain to the pond; strawberry tasting and meal as an option. Camping du Manoire, Fossemagne Call 05 53 06 35 10 12.5 and 7.5km walks along signed pathways, meet 8.30, Bourgnac Call 05 53 81 73 87 July 15 – guided visit to goose farm with snack, leave Place Charles de Gaulle St-Cyprien Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book 10km guided walk, visit to farm with tasting session, possibility to book a picnic, 8.45 tourist office, Ribérac Call 05 53 90 03 10 8km walk, meet 18.30 car park opposite mairie, take a picnic, Mauzac-etGrand-Castang Call 05 53 24 92 57 July 18 – Walk around Miallet, meet 8.30 at l’Aire d’Accueil St-Pierrede-Frugie €1 Call 05 55 78 88 38 Balade des Troubadours, 11 and 14km walks, meet 8.30 at Palou (signposted), Excideuil Call 059 52 68 95 56 to book 8km nocturnal walk with music, leave 17.00, Place du Bassin, Lalinde Call 05 53 24 92 57 July 19 – cross country bike ride along the Dordogne valley, leave Place Charles de Gaulle, St-Cyprien Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book July 21 – 12km guided walk, meet Place des Cornières, Monpazier Call 05 53 22 68 59 Walk the Périgord Noir truffle trail, visit to truffle producer, Périgordin aperitif and other surprises. Leave 9.00 Mas del Sartre, Nadaillac Call 05 53 28 81 93 July 22 – walk the old rail tracks, Périgordin aperitif, leave 9.00, aire touristique, St-Geniès Call 05 53 28 81 93 Nocturnal walk with torches to discover secret corners of Nadaillac Call 05 53 28 81 93 8km walk, bring a picnic, meet 18.30 in front of the church, Faux Call 05 53 61 08 26 July 23 – Full moon 6km walk, meet 20.30, Saussignac Call 05 53 22 49 11 July 24 – 7km and 12km nocturnal walks with stop for dinner, meet 19.00, Busserolles Call 05 53 60 74 75 12 and 5km guided walks, leave 9.00

at the vineyards of the Domaine de la Voie Blanche, leave Place Charles de Gaulle, St-Cyprien Call 06 85 73 53 12 to book Walk around St-Julien-de-Lampon, meet tourist office Rouffillac-deCarlux, leave 9.30 Call 05 53 59 10 70

Nordic walking

Walking trails keep you in trim GET walking is the advice from the tourist office as it has organised many walks around the department. They are on offer all summer and are held on a weekly basis.

Several are themed with visits to farms and producers – and all will help you discover the little villages and the surrounding countryside.

Mondays July 5-August 16: Themed guided walk from 9.00 to 12.00, Price €2 including snack, leave Base Nautique Trémolat Call 05 53 22 89 33 Wednesdays June 5-September 29: Neuvic Call 06 84 60 81 63 Thursdays in July and August: Discover the different communes of Verteillac, possibility of meal reservation Call 05 53 90 37 78 from the village, Siorac-de-Ribérac Call 05 53 91 87 50 Walk to discover small heritage sites and visit exterior of the castles, meet 10.00, Badefols-d’Ans Call 05 53 50 40 27 July 25 – 12km walk, take a picnic, aperitif and dessert provided, meet car park St-Saveur Call 05 53 23 26 20 Easy countryside walk to Lamendeau

Friday mornings, July and August Two-hour walks around Moliéres Call 05 53 22 39 12 Fridays, July 8-August 20 Guided walks around the Salignac-Eyvigues area Call 05 53 28 81 93 Fridays, July 9-August 20: Nocturnal walks along the St Jacques de Compostelle trails, leave from Tourist Office, Price €5, Trémolat Call 05 53 22 89 33 Thursdays, July 15-August 19: Walk from farm to farm; 10.00 Visit to a cattle farm, 11.00 visit to a truffle production, buffet lunch, 14.00 visit to nut farm, 16.00 demonstration at foie gras farm, Adults €10, children €5, Hautefort Call 05 53 50 40 27 dam; coffee, tea and cake provided, Nontron Call 05 53 56 25 50 July 27 – 8km nocturnal walk; start 21.00 cemetery car park, Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 July 28 – 9km nocturnal walk, start 21.30 tourist office, Beaumont-duPérigord Call 05 53 22 39 12 July 29 – guided walk with tasting

July 4 – Prats-du-Périgord Call 05 53 29 98 37 July 8 – meet at the Tourist Office, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 30 36 09 July 9 – Nocturnal walk, LaRoche-Chalais Call 05 53 91 65 51 July 19 – meet mairie, Lavaur Call 05 53 29 98 37 July 22 – 9.45 - 12.00, Fanlac Call 05 53 51 82 60 to book July 23 – Nocturnal session, football stadium, Campagnac-les-Quercy Call 05 53 29 98 37

Music July 2 – Concert by Kammerensemble Kolhn from Cologne, 20.30, Cathédrale St Sacerdos, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 45 45 July 3 – Concert with Touzazimut and paella meal, 20.00, Celles Call 05 53 91 35 11 Brass quintet from the Paris Orchestra, 21.00; Church, St-Geniès Call 05 53 29 59 14 Latino-American group Katuna, église Ste-Anne, Pezuls Call 05 53 22 72 09 Concert by Canadian singer Daniele Rivard in aid of the families of brain trauma sufferers in the Dordogne, Centre Culturel, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 09 49 July 4 – Summer choir concert, church, Rouffignac-St-Cernin Call 05 53 05 39 66 Jeux d’Orgues, Organ concert, Cathédrale St-Front, Périgueux Call 05 53 53 10 63 July 6 – Just for fun concert Reggae and World Music, L’Auberge du Coq, Fleurac Call 05 53 05 98 71 Macadam Jazz, Thomas Champagne Trio with aperitif, 18.30, Place St Silain, Périgueux Call 06 87 19 55 97 July 8 – Organ concert with singers

Scarecrows on display FOR MONTHS there has been fevered activity behind closed doors in Meyrals as people prepare their creations for the summer scarecrow contest.

It has been part of the village fête since 1999 and now draws people from all over the region.

This year it is on July 24-25 and the scarecrows are on display in the field all summer. Others are in the village all year round as the inhabitants are fond of having them around.

Anyone can enter – entries close on July 10 – and there are several categories and prizes.

The fête also has a painting competition, street theatre, a Polish folk group and traditional games, plenty to eat and drink and a firework display.

Call 05 53 31 13 56

12 Dordogne What’s On July from Russian Red Army choir, église Notre Dame des Ronces, Nontron Call 05 53 56 11 55 July 8-9 – Afrolatines festival, concerts, market and animations, Eymet Call 05 53 22 45 10 July 9 – Choir concert, 21.00, Château de Biron Call 05 53 63 15 23 Opening concert for Jumilhac-leGrand music festival, Between Occitanie and Brasil, 20.30, Place du Village, St-Jean-de-Cole Call 05 53 62 14 15 July 10 – Russian and Ukrainian church music, abbey at St-Amand-deColy Call 05 53 51 47 85 Blues and jazz concert, 21.00, Jardin des Enfeus, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 09 49 July 12 – Classical music with Ponticello quartet, Chapelle de Tresséroux, Les-Lèches Call 05 53 81 17 34 July 15 – Classical music, St-Jeande-Cole Call 05 53 62 14 15 July 16 – Corsican music and songs, buffet, 19.30, église, Bourrou Call 05 53 54 27 03 Festival du Pays d’Ans, Flamenco music, Tourtoirac Call 05 53 51 13 63 Organ concert with François Henri Houbart, 20.30, church, MontponMénestérol Call 05 53 82 23 77

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

Occitan festival fills the streets of Montignac THIS YEAR it is Montignac’s turn to hold one of the most important events in the Occitan calendar – the Félibrée festival.

Held on the first weekend of July it attracts up to 30,000 people of all ages.

Called Felibrejada in Occitan, the Félibrée is a celebration of the old language with traditional costumes and regional traditions.

Organised by the Lo Bornat dau Perigord the festival travels from July 17 – pop, rock and blues concert with Thomas Ottogali, Salle de spectacle La Rhue, Jumilhac-le-Grand Call 05 53 52 43 02 July 19 – Baroque concert, église abbatiale, Brantôme Call 05 53 05 29 62 July 20 – Violin and piano concert

with Elisa Turri and Sybil Rouxel, 20.30, Mairie, Belvès Call 05 53 31 91 84 July 21 – Concert and aperitif with Mussidan music school and local musicians, Jardin de la Mairie, StFront-de-Pradoux Call 05 53 81 73 87 Jazz festival, New Orleans meal and Mississippi Jazz Band, Molières Call 05 53 57 48 92 Organ, trumpet and singing concert, 18.00, church, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 29 20 63 July 23 – Traditional music and dance, workshops, concerts, Lalinde Call 05 53 24 66 12 July 27 – Romantic organ recital with Sophie-Véronique CaucheferChoplin, église Notre Dame des Ronces, Nontron Call 05 53 56 11 55 July 29 – Duke Orchestra, tribute to Duke Ellington, in concert Musée de l’Harmonium, Bars Call 05 53 05 20 60 Traditional music from Brittany, 20.30, Church at Tayac Call 05 53 07 20 48 July 31 – Jazz concert, La-RocheChalais Call 06 33 91 22 69 July 6-August 31 – Every Tuesday, Folk music and dancing, Place du Livre de Vie, Bergerac Call 05 53 74 66 62 July 7-August 25 – Jazz Wednesdays, outdoor, free jazz concerts, Place de la Myrpe, Bergerac Call 05 53 57 71 51 July 16-August 13 – Friday nights, concert, 18.00, Kiosque, Le Bugue Call 05 53 02 75 80

Art July 1-4 – Exhibition, music and films on the colour blue with Strauss and Blue Danube tribute, St-Astier July 10-11 – Painting competition in St-Privat-des-Près village

year to year to different villages in the Dordogne.

All year volunteers prepare paper flowers to decorate the whole village in an array of colours, costumes are made, shop windows are dressed and entrance gates to the commune constructed emphasising specialties from the area.

On the day thousands of people come from over the department dressed in traditional costumes who are greeted at the gates and the festivities start after the elected queen receives the key to the town.

Throughout the day discover traditional construction methods, watch artisans at work, listen to troubadours singing traditional songs, join in the massive banquet at lunch time and soak up the joyous and relaxed atmosphere that is so particular to this festival.

For information visit http:// auriac-du-perigord.fr/fr/felibree Call 05 53 90 41 80 July 11-August 15 – Exhibition Rêves mécaniques/Mechanical dreams, Galerie de la Tour du Bourreau, Sarlat Call 06 83 83 34 53 July 12-August 14 – From 9.3012.30, pottery, sculpture and modelling workshops, St-Amand-de-Coly Call 05 53 51 67 87 July 19-25 – Patchwork and lace display, place Alfred Agard, Nontron Call 05 53 56 05 37

My Beautiful Festival returns AFTER the success of My Beautiful Festival last year in Bergerac, the second Franco-British film festival will be held from July 21 - 24.

Aiming to bring together the British and French communities, the festival opens and closes with outside film seances and musical activities which allow the public to mingle together over a drink.

VIPs last year were Stephen Frears and Jacques Audiard. This year Bertrand Tavernier will be present with a British director of his choice.

More details on: http:// mybeautifulfestival.jimdo.com/ VO films: Rex, Sarlat – Green Zone, June 2; The Ghost-Writer, June 9 July 21-August 31 – Masterpieces of the Compagnons du Devoir, craft organisation dating to the Middle Ages, Esplanade de l’Auditeur, Belvès Call 05 53 29 10 20 July 25 – Peintres en ville/Painters in town contest, from 10.00, Excideuil Call 09 52 68 95 56

Dordogne What’s On July 13

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010 All month – Exhibition by artist Jenny MacMillan, Atelier Contempora, Ribérac Call 05 53 90 47 43 Sculptor Dietrich Klinge brings his works to the Château de Biron.

Call 05 53 05 65 65 Exhibition Stones and Man, old presbytère, Plazac Call 05 53 50 77 66 Exhibition of popular arts and traditions from 11th, 12th and 13th centuries, St-Amand-de-Coly Call 06 70 20 63 48

Other July 1, 8, 22, 29 – Goûter Fruité, discover new tastes, the aroma of fruit in wine and the fruits in the aroma. Domaine de Coutancie, Prigonrieux Call 05 53 58 01 85 July 2 – Astronomy evening; conference and sky watch, meet at l’Entente Cordiale, Abjat-sur-Bandiat Call 05 53 55 36 00 July 2-5 – Military vehicles show, Stade Municipal, Vézac Call 06 81 72 81 30 July 2-6 – Fête de la St-Pierre, Saturday night Russian show; dancers, acrobats, musicians, fireworks and other activities, Lalinde Call 05 53 24 89 79 July 4 – Hog roast, St-Barthélémyde-Bussière.

Call 05 53 56 79 69

Catch Olivia at the Grand Souk ONE OF top events of the summer for young people is Le Grand Souk at Ribérac.

Taking place on July 22, 23, 24, it offers an eclectic range of more than 20 groups with well-known and not so well known names.

Included are female French pop singer Olivia Ruiz, right, Canadian singer-songwriter Coeur de Pirate, French group Pony Pony Run Run and British groups Archive and the Archie Bronson Outfit.

It aims to be a small scale, less wet, French Glastonbury. Free camping is available on booking Call 05 53 92 52 30 ELSEWHERE, Scots singer-songwriter Sandi Thom will be singing her world-wide hit I Wish I Was A Punk Rocker at Les Colonnes in Bonne on July 22. http://popsurdronne.com Soirée moules frites Cubjac Call 05 53 05 39 79 July 6, 20 – Bergerac wine tasting, tourist office, Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 July 9, 16, 30 – Star gazing with visits to observatory to see the Newton 450mm telescope. Meet

21.30 at the mairie Thiviers Call 05 53 55 12 50 July 10 – Clay pigeon shooting, Route de Miallet, St-Saud-Lacoussiere Call 05 53 56 97 72 July 11 – Festival of taste and artisans, Tocane-St-Apre and Montagrier Call 05 53 91 35 11

July 15 – Visit to the printers and walk around village of Preyssac, meet 14.15 tourist office Lanouaille Call 05 53 62 17 82 Soirée moules frites, Saussignac Call 05 53 58 48 16 July 16-August 20 – Fridays 19.0021.00, tasting of summer truffles, Place Boissarie, Sarlat July 24-25 – Clay pigeon shooting, St-Jean-de-Cole Call 05 53 62 14 15 Exhibition of old machinery Saturday 14.00-20.00, Sunday 9.00-20.00, Dussac Call 05 53 62 10 36 July 25 – Fête des Bisons du Périgord, celebrating the bisons.

Presentation of the farm, archery, market, cars and motorbikes. Maillet Call 05 53 52 63 03 July 26, August 2-9 - Festival of old jobs, free for under 11s, SalignacEyvigues Call 05 53 28 81 93 July 31 – Renaissance Vieux Bruzac, mysteries and show, Château de Bruzac, St-Pierre-de-Cole Call 05 53 56 96 70 English meal, 12.00, Salle de Fêtes, Chapdeuil Call 05 53 91 35 11 Medieval torch-lit dinner, Château de Laxion, Corgnac-sur-l’Isle Call 06 73 88 64 08 July 31-August 1 – Wine fair, Salle des Fêtes, Brantôme Call 05 53 06 35 26

14 Dordogne What’s On August

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

What’s On August Family August 1 – Occitan fête, folk groups, artisan demonstrations of pottery, weaving, glass, iron work, stained glass, carpentry. Cales.

Call 05 53 22 52 89 August 7-8, 14-15 – Medieval combats and camp, Château de Laxion, Corgnac-sur-l’Isle Call 06 73 88 64 08 August 9-10 – Circus, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 29 28 22 August 10 – Farm fair, sheep shearing, Beaumont-du-Périgord Call 05 53 22 39 12 Treasure hunt, Paulin Call 05 53 28 81 93 August 20-21 – Guided visit to the Château of Grignols, with medieval carnival and banquet. Grignols Call 05 53 54 27 03 August 21-22 – Crêpes fair, various animations, Carlux Call 05 53 29 27 97 August 28-29 – The Dordogne’s biggest horse show, St-Astier Call 05 53 54 53 78 Every Tuesday – Treasure hunt in forest, 9.30 - 12.00, Campagne Call 05 53 07 20 48 Every Wednesday – Children’s art workshops, Château de Hautefort Call 05 53 50 51 23

Mime takes over the streets MIME artist Marcel Marceau lived in the Dordogne in his younger days and he is celebrated in the Mimos mime festival.

Alongside London’s Mime festival, it is Europe’s biggest, attracting 45,000 visitors. From August 2-7, it has acts in the theatres, streets and gardens of Périgueux and in the Roman museum at Vesunna and the Château Barrière ruins.

For details visit www.mimos.fr

Out and About August 1 – Walk from truffle to nut producers, leave 8.15 Grèzes Call 05 53 51 00 35 12km circuit, meet 9.00, football stadium, Couze Call 05 53 24 92 57

Microlight aircraft meet, possibility of trial flight, Belvès Call 05 53 29 10 20 Every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday, horse riding from 10 years, St-Estèphe Call 05 53 60 74 75 August 2 – Cross country bike ride with visit to walnut producer leave tourist office, St-Cyprien Call 05 53 30 36 09 8km circuit, meet place de la Mayade, Sigoulès

Music August 1 – New York Glory Gospel Singers, St Sacerdos, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 45 45 August 4 – Piano recital, Paunat Call 05 53 73 55 87 August 6 – French opera, 21.00, abbey, St-Amand-de-Coly Call 05 53 51 82 60 Blues concert, St-Avit-Sénieur Call 05 53 22 39 12 August 7 – Concert with folk group Sans Gain, La Rhue, Jumilhacle-Grand Call 05 53 52 43 02 Chamber music with Peter Onnes, clarinet, and Marian Deiman, harp, at church, Miallet Call 05 53 52 41 24 Gospel concert, at church, Les-Lèches Call 05 53 81 17 34 Blues festival with seven groups playing, Vélines Call 05 53 22 53 02

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The Grand Souk in Dordogne is great– a lot of young people go Sébastien d’Elia St Astier

August 9 – Bach festival, Belvès Call 05 53 59 68 05 August 10 – Just for fun concert, reggae, Auberge du Coq, Fleurac Call 05 53 05 98 71 Macadam Jazz and aperitif, Jardin de Vesunna, Périgueux Call 06 87 19 55 97 August 11 – Orpheus in the Underworld by Offenbach, Thiviers Call 05 53 55 12 50 Bach-jazz concert with the Delaite trio, at church, Molières Call 05 53 22 39 12 Concert with the Chamber orchestra of Gironde, Couze-et-St-Front Call 05 53 61 08 55 August 12 – Concert with Valery Orlov/Trio Virtuose, Russian romanticism and gypsy music, 20.00, cathedral, Sarlat. Tickets from tourist office Call 05 53 31 45 45 August 13 – Accordion gala, 21.00, Sarlande Call 05 53 52 32 37 August 14 – Concert with Tony Brams, 1980s music, Jardin Public, Ile de la Vergne, Terrasson-Lavilledieu Call 05 53 50 23 27 Harpsichord concert, 18.00, in the church, Fanlac Call 05 53 51 95 17 Trumpet and organ concert, St Sacerdos cathedral, Sarlat Call 05 53 31 45 45 Concert with Little Gang, Chicago blues, La Rhue, Jumilhac-le-Grand Call 05 53 52 43 02 Concert from the Cologne ensemble playing Bach, Vivaldi and more, 20.30, the church Domme Call 05 53 29 01 91 August 15 – 18.00 Silent film with piano accompaniment, 21.00 concert with the Harmonie orchestra from Bergerac, 1 Place d’Armes, Montignac Call 05 53 51 95 17 August 17 – Two concerts with cello and double bass, 18.00-21.00, StLéon-sur-Vézère church Call 05 53 51 95 17

Dordogne What’s On August 15

Dordogne Advertiser June 2010

Macadam jazz with aperitif, Place St Louis, Périgueux Call 06 87 19 55 97 August 18 – Music festival with numerous groups in the evening, Castelnaud-La-Chapelle Call 05 53 29 40 56 August 19 – Concert with Bordelune, mix of classic French songs, Trénet, Gainsbourg, Dutronc, Place de l’abbaye, Cadouin Call 05 53 23 86 22 August 27 – As part of a FrancoBritish week, Château Masburel offers the chance to taste Scottish products and enjoy Celtic music concert, Château Masburel, Fougueyrolles Call 05 53 24 77 73

August 1 – Art market and exhibition, St-Paul-Lizonne Call 05 53 91 61 53 August 1-14 – Insect exhibition, Tourist Office, Jumilhac-le-Grand Call 05 53 52 55 43 August 1-15 – Ceramic exhibition, Belvès Call 05 53 29 10 20 August 2-8 – Chinese calligraphy exhibition, Salle des Fêtes, Brantôme Call 05 53 05 80 63 August 3 – Collect a guide from the tourist office to discover local artists. Visit the artists. Ste-Alvère Call 05 53 27 59 99

Shakespeare on the streets ENGLISH voices are everywhere in Quercy in the Lot Valley from August 3-19 – with performances of Shakespeare and Oscar Wilde plays.

The Shakespeare Festival has been held for 10 years and the Hampstead Players are acting out his romantic tragedy Antony and Cleopatra on August 17, 18, 19.

Another group, Antic Disposition, will present Wilde’s The Importance of being Ernest from August 3-11. www.festivalshakespeare.org August 6-16 – Local art exhibition, Villefranche-du-Périgord Call 05 53 29 98 37 August 8 – Local arts and crafts will be on display all around Lavalade Call 05 53 23 45 96 August 11-13 – Painting on silk exhibition, Le-Bugue Call 05 53 07 41 48 August 22 – Painting competition in the old town of Périgueux Call 05 53 08 69 81 August 28 – Painting competition in the village, Quinsac Call 06 77 86 38 43 Until August 9 – Painting, sculpture and photograph exhibition, practical activities and workshops. Salle des Fêtes, St-Paul-la-Roche Call 05 53 62 80 02 Until August 13 – Acrylic painting exhibition by Sir John Bailey, Brantôme Call 05 53 05 80 63

ONCE the frontier between the French and English armies during the Middle Ages, the Dropt Valley marks the fact with the Itinérance Médiévale en Vallée du Dropt on August 5-29.

It shows the medieval history of the valley in a festive, cultural and convivial way and this year looks at the St Jacques de Compostelle pilgrims and routes through Le-Buisson-deCadouin, Issigeac and Eymet.

Aug 5: Medieval camp, games and workshops for children, Blasimon, Gironde Aug 6: Camp, acrobats, music, stilt-walkers, concert and ban-

Photo: P. Bacogne

Art

Dropt returns to the Middle Ages and joins pilgrims

Until August 15 – Painting and sculpture exhibition, Château de Saussignac Call 05 53 22 49 11 Until August 19 – Patchwork exhibition, Paunat Call 05 53 63 00 73

Other July 31-August 1 – Wine fair, Agonac, Brantôme Call 05 53 06 35 26 August 1 – Quad bike rally, 70km circuit. Meet 7.30, Salle des Fêtes, Thonac Call 05 53 51 34 62 August 2-9 – Festival of old jobs, 11.00-19.00, Salignac-Eyvigues Call 05 53 28 81 93 August 3, 17, 24 – Wine tasting of Bergerac wines, Sigoulès Call 05 53 58 48 16 August 4 – Day of crafts, 25 artisans exhibit and sell their goods, Beaumont-du-Périgord Call 05 53 22 39 12 August 6, 13 – Star-gazing with help from Créasciences from Bergerac. Thiviers Call 05 53 55 12 50 August 7-8 – Fête du Couteau – celebrates Nontron’s place as centre of the knife-making industry. Events, displays, workshops and stalls. http://feteducouteau.typepad.fr August 8 – Traditional fête and market, 8km walk, fishing contest, traditional games, pétanque, folk dance and meal. Lanquais. €16 Call 06 24 66 14 33 Medieval fair, games, traditional music, street shows, Lusignac Call 05 53 91 93 24 Dog show, Sorges Call 05 53 35 14 42 August 12 – Exhibition of old machinery, St-Pompont Call 05 53 28 48 90 Guided visit to a bison farm and meal.

Maillet Call 05 53 52 63 03 August 14 – Evening by the river, dress in white and bring a picnic, Base nautique, Trémolat Call 05 53 22 80 17

August 14-26 – Exhibition on clothes from the 19th century, StAmand-de-Coly Call 06 70 20 63 48 August 17 – Observation of the night sky, Pontours Call 05 53 27 99 31 August 21 – Wine fair, Thiviers Call 05 53 55 12 50 August 21-22 – Périgord walnuts.

Conferences, demonstrations, dinner and products, Terrasson-Lavilledieu Call 05 53 50 37 56

quet, Cambes, Lot-et-Garonne Aug 7: Camp, games, stilt-walkers, acrobats, banquet, St-Ferme, Gironde Aug 8: Camp, combat, music, games, archery acrobats, banquet, Eymet Aug 14: Horseback falconry, music and tavern, Duras, Lot-et-Garonne Aug 15: Horseback falconry, theatre, banquet, Sauveterre-de-Guyenne Aug 20: Music, games, workshops, stilt-walkers, banquet, Cadouin Aug 21: Music, stilt-walkers, tavern, Soumensac, Lot-et-Garonne Aug 22: horses, falconry, music, games, midday banquet, Castrum de Pommiers, Gironde Aug 22: Music, workshops, stilt-walkers, banquet, Issigeac Aug 28-29: Large camp, music, concerts, games, worksjops, stilt-walkers, jugglers, tavern and banquet August 27 – L’Autre Festival, music to circus, Le Beuil, Razac-d’Eymet Call 06 84 21 52 30 August 28 – Discover about bats, evening St-Pierre-de-Frugie Call 05 53 52 82 86 August 29 – Presentation and demonstration of careers linked to ironmongery, St-Aubin-de-Lanquais Call 05 53 24 30 51 August 30 – Varaignes weavers and Charentaise slippers museum Call 05 53 56 23 66