Kekoo,
Je planifie mes vacances d'été et je souhaite partir en Dordogne.
J'aimerais connaitre des bons plans, les incontournables et avoir des conseils.
Merci d'avance
Original post
Crevette53
France: conseils sur la Dordogne
by Crevette53
This discussion is in French, the community’s main language.
La Dordogne ?
Mais c’est une excellente destination ça ! 😊
La partie du département de la Dordogne qui présente probablement le plus d’attraits est celle qui se situe justement le long de la rivière éponyme, à proximité du département du Lot.
Je n’évoquerai pas ici les paysages, ceux-ci se laisseront découvrir tout seuls.
La vallée de la Dordogne regorge de châteaux et manoirs médiévaux, parmi ceux-ci on trouve comme grands classiques ceux de Castelnaud (Dordogne), Castelnau-Bretenoux (Lot) et Beynac(Dordogne) pour ce qui est des forteresses surplombant la rivière.
Sinon en quittant les abords immédiats de la rivière il est deux châteaux médiévaux vraiment exceptionnels :
Un ouvert depuis peu de temps à la visite, à savoir le château de Commarque (Dordogne). Il s’agit d’un ancien repère de chevaliers caché au fond d’une forêt à un endroit où on ne s’attendrait pas à trouver un tel édifice.
L’autre est le château de Bonaguil (Lot) qui est considéré comme le dernier des châteaux médiévaux de France à une époque où on connaissait déjà l’artillerie.
Ces deux monuments ne manquent pas d’un certain romantisme.
Pour rester dans le médiéval on trouve dans la région de nombreuses bastides dont les plus célèbres sont sans doute celles de Domme et de Montpazier.
Maintenant j’aurais tendance à dire que toutes les villes et villages de la région, qu’il s’agisse ou non d’anciennes bastides, méritent au moins une petite ballade.
Sarlat, capitale du Périgord Noir, est réputée et a fait le bonheur de plus d’un cinéaste. En faisant un petit saut vers le Lot on trouve le fameux site de Roquamadour et le célèbre village de Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Un petit détour vers la proche Corrèze se justifie pour visiter la belle Collonges-la-Rouge.
Je parle de passer d’un département à l’autre mais je pars ici du principe qu’on se trouve à la frontière entre le Lot et la Dordogne, quelque part entre Sarlat, Gourdon et Souillac.
Près de Roquamadour se trouve l’impressionnant gouffre de Padirac et sa rivière souterraine qui mérite vraiment le détour.
Cette région se distingue également pour sa richesse exceptionnelle en vestiges préhistoriques ; parmi ceux-ci figurant entre autre Lascaux et les Eyzies comme « incontournables ».
Pour ce qui est de la gastronomie je ne vais pas m’attarder sur les confits et autres choses qu’on retrouve dans presque tous les restaurants mais tiens à faire ici la promotion d’un gâteau local vraiment excellent mais dont la difficulté qu’il y a à le faire l’a mis dans la catégorie des gâteaux en voie de disparition ; ce gâteau a pour nom « pastis » (comme la boisson anisée) et se trouve est un feuilleté imbibé d’eau de vie avec parfois des pommes ou des poires (traditionnellement on ne rajoute pas de fruits).
De moins en moins de personnes savent le faire, aussi il ne faut pas hésiter d’y goûter si jamais l’occasion se présente. Je rajoute que ce gâteau se congèle très bien et que j’en ai mangé de congelés bien meilleurs que de médiocres « frais ».
Ce n’était bien sûr qu’un très rapide tour d’horizon des très grands classiques du coin à visiter. Cette région est peut-être la plus riche de France pour qui aime les vieilles pierres et/ou les grottes.
On peut certes se « faire » les quelques classiques que j’ai cités mais il serait illusoire de vouloir tout voir. 🤪
Je m’empresse d’ajouter que c’est une région où il faut toujours se donner du temps pour l’improvisation d’une ballade dans un petit village, d’un coup d’œil sur un pigeonnier ou une gariotte, …
Pour partir à la chasse aux informations on peut aussi employer les noms de Périgord et de Quercy (noms des régions historiques) pour respectivement les départements de la Dordogne et du Lot.
Dernière précision : la partie du Périgord touchant le Quercy a pour nom le « Périgord Noir » alors que la partie du Quercy touchant le Périgord a pour nom la « Bouriane ».
Bons préparatifs ! 🙂
Mais c’est une excellente destination ça ! 😊
La partie du département de la Dordogne qui présente probablement le plus d’attraits est celle qui se situe justement le long de la rivière éponyme, à proximité du département du Lot.
Je n’évoquerai pas ici les paysages, ceux-ci se laisseront découvrir tout seuls.
La vallée de la Dordogne regorge de châteaux et manoirs médiévaux, parmi ceux-ci on trouve comme grands classiques ceux de Castelnaud (Dordogne), Castelnau-Bretenoux (Lot) et Beynac(Dordogne) pour ce qui est des forteresses surplombant la rivière.
Sinon en quittant les abords immédiats de la rivière il est deux châteaux médiévaux vraiment exceptionnels :
Un ouvert depuis peu de temps à la visite, à savoir le château de Commarque (Dordogne). Il s’agit d’un ancien repère de chevaliers caché au fond d’une forêt à un endroit où on ne s’attendrait pas à trouver un tel édifice.
L’autre est le château de Bonaguil (Lot) qui est considéré comme le dernier des châteaux médiévaux de France à une époque où on connaissait déjà l’artillerie.
Ces deux monuments ne manquent pas d’un certain romantisme.
Pour rester dans le médiéval on trouve dans la région de nombreuses bastides dont les plus célèbres sont sans doute celles de Domme et de Montpazier.
Maintenant j’aurais tendance à dire que toutes les villes et villages de la région, qu’il s’agisse ou non d’anciennes bastides, méritent au moins une petite ballade.
Sarlat, capitale du Périgord Noir, est réputée et a fait le bonheur de plus d’un cinéaste. En faisant un petit saut vers le Lot on trouve le fameux site de Roquamadour et le célèbre village de Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Un petit détour vers la proche Corrèze se justifie pour visiter la belle Collonges-la-Rouge.
Je parle de passer d’un département à l’autre mais je pars ici du principe qu’on se trouve à la frontière entre le Lot et la Dordogne, quelque part entre Sarlat, Gourdon et Souillac.
Près de Roquamadour se trouve l’impressionnant gouffre de Padirac et sa rivière souterraine qui mérite vraiment le détour.
Cette région se distingue également pour sa richesse exceptionnelle en vestiges préhistoriques ; parmi ceux-ci figurant entre autre Lascaux et les Eyzies comme « incontournables ».
Pour ce qui est de la gastronomie je ne vais pas m’attarder sur les confits et autres choses qu’on retrouve dans presque tous les restaurants mais tiens à faire ici la promotion d’un gâteau local vraiment excellent mais dont la difficulté qu’il y a à le faire l’a mis dans la catégorie des gâteaux en voie de disparition ; ce gâteau a pour nom « pastis » (comme la boisson anisée) et se trouve est un feuilleté imbibé d’eau de vie avec parfois des pommes ou des poires (traditionnellement on ne rajoute pas de fruits).
De moins en moins de personnes savent le faire, aussi il ne faut pas hésiter d’y goûter si jamais l’occasion se présente. Je rajoute que ce gâteau se congèle très bien et que j’en ai mangé de congelés bien meilleurs que de médiocres « frais ».
Ce n’était bien sûr qu’un très rapide tour d’horizon des très grands classiques du coin à visiter. Cette région est peut-être la plus riche de France pour qui aime les vieilles pierres et/ou les grottes.
On peut certes se « faire » les quelques classiques que j’ai cités mais il serait illusoire de vouloir tout voir. 🤪
Je m’empresse d’ajouter que c’est une région où il faut toujours se donner du temps pour l’improvisation d’une ballade dans un petit village, d’un coup d’œil sur un pigeonnier ou une gariotte, …
Pour partir à la chasse aux informations on peut aussi employer les noms de Périgord et de Quercy (noms des régions historiques) pour respectivement les départements de la Dordogne et du Lot.
Dernière précision : la partie du Périgord touchant le Quercy a pour nom le « Périgord Noir » alors que la partie du Quercy touchant le Périgord a pour nom la « Bouriane ».
Bons préparatifs ! 🙂
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
Bonjour,
pour des raisons médicales je me suis mise à la recherche d'auberges/gîtes/hotels avec piscine à eau salée (au lieu du chlore) et je suis tombée sur des petites auberges bien sympas en Dordogne. J'ai vérifié un peu et il paraît que c'est vraiment une chouette destination, avec plein de choses à faire et à visiter!
Qu'est-ce qu'il en est pour le vélo? J'ai un lonelyplanet spécial, "cyclisme en France", et il paraît que la région s'y prette à merveille. Y a t'il des sentiers cyclables signalés ou comment ça se passe?
Pouvez-vous me renseigner si la Dordogne est plutôt une destination très familale? Je vais voyager seule...
A bientôt
pour des raisons médicales je me suis mise à la recherche d'auberges/gîtes/hotels avec piscine à eau salée (au lieu du chlore) et je suis tombée sur des petites auberges bien sympas en Dordogne. J'ai vérifié un peu et il paraît que c'est vraiment une chouette destination, avec plein de choses à faire et à visiter!
Qu'est-ce qu'il en est pour le vélo? J'ai un lonelyplanet spécial, "cyclisme en France", et il paraît que la région s'y prette à merveille. Y a t'il des sentiers cyclables signalés ou comment ça se passe?
Pouvez-vous me renseigner si la Dordogne est plutôt une destination très familale? Je vais voyager seule...
A bientôt
Je dois dire que je n’ai pas le souvenir d’une débauche de pistes cyclables, ni en Dordogne, ni dans le Lot. Ceci étant je n’en ai pas vu davantage dans d’autres régions de France 😕 (une exception, une fois, en Picardie).
En revanche si on n’y trouve peut-être pas facilement des pistes cyclables je n’y connais pas un seul endroit qu’on n’aimerait traverser au rythme d’un vélo. Cette région n’est pas que riche en monuments, grottes, villages pittoresques, … elle est également riche de part ses paysages et les multiples petits trésors qui s’y cachent (pigeonniers, cabanes en bois, tours templières, gariottes, vieilles granges, …).
Mais quel type de vélo comptes-tu pratiquer ?
Quel niveau as-tu ? 😐
Si c’est du cyclisme sur goudron et que tes muscles te permettent de passer partout sans effort alors je pense que tu peux y aller sans hésiter et que tu passeras d’excellentes vacances en découvrant de très jolis coins via des petites routes de campagne où ne passe quasiment jamais personne. Si tu es un peu faible musculairement parlant tu ne pourras peut-être pas aller partout facilement, les collines et plateaux n’étant pas rares. Ceci étant, même si je ne l’ai pas fait à vélo, j’imagine bien un itinéraire longeant les rivières de la Vézère et de la Dordogne.
Le long de la Vézère se trouvent nombre de sites préhistoriques et troglodytiques célèbres (Lascaux, le Moustier, les Eyzies, La Roque Saint-Christophe, …)
Le long de la Dordogne se trouvent surtout quelques châteaux fameux (j’en ai déjà cité quelques uns), des villages ravissants, …😊
Certes en se limitant aux vallées on rate quelques grands sites (Rocamadour, Collonges la Rouge, gouffre de Padirac, Commarque, …) mais il est de toutes façons impossible de tout voir dans le cadre de vacances ordinaires.
Dans un précédent post j’avais parlé de cette région en oubliant de mentionner ses trésors d’architecture religieuse… Ne voulant pas me faire tirer les oreilles sachez que l’on y trouve également de forts belles abbayes (Moissac, Cadouin, Brantôme, …) et que la région est particulièrement bien pourvue en églises romanes à coupoles.
A oui j’oubliais aussi : le ciel du Quercy (Lot) est réputé dans le milieu de l’astronomie être le plus beau de France, aussi si vous aimez les ciels étoilés… 🙂
Comme Blate j’avais d’autres projets pour cet été mais à force d’en parler…😇
En revanche si on n’y trouve peut-être pas facilement des pistes cyclables je n’y connais pas un seul endroit qu’on n’aimerait traverser au rythme d’un vélo. Cette région n’est pas que riche en monuments, grottes, villages pittoresques, … elle est également riche de part ses paysages et les multiples petits trésors qui s’y cachent (pigeonniers, cabanes en bois, tours templières, gariottes, vieilles granges, …).
Mais quel type de vélo comptes-tu pratiquer ?
Quel niveau as-tu ? 😐
Si c’est du cyclisme sur goudron et que tes muscles te permettent de passer partout sans effort alors je pense que tu peux y aller sans hésiter et que tu passeras d’excellentes vacances en découvrant de très jolis coins via des petites routes de campagne où ne passe quasiment jamais personne. Si tu es un peu faible musculairement parlant tu ne pourras peut-être pas aller partout facilement, les collines et plateaux n’étant pas rares. Ceci étant, même si je ne l’ai pas fait à vélo, j’imagine bien un itinéraire longeant les rivières de la Vézère et de la Dordogne.
Le long de la Vézère se trouvent nombre de sites préhistoriques et troglodytiques célèbres (Lascaux, le Moustier, les Eyzies, La Roque Saint-Christophe, …)
Le long de la Dordogne se trouvent surtout quelques châteaux fameux (j’en ai déjà cité quelques uns), des villages ravissants, …😊
Certes en se limitant aux vallées on rate quelques grands sites (Rocamadour, Collonges la Rouge, gouffre de Padirac, Commarque, …) mais il est de toutes façons impossible de tout voir dans le cadre de vacances ordinaires.
Dans un précédent post j’avais parlé de cette région en oubliant de mentionner ses trésors d’architecture religieuse… Ne voulant pas me faire tirer les oreilles sachez que l’on y trouve également de forts belles abbayes (Moissac, Cadouin, Brantôme, …) et que la région est particulièrement bien pourvue en églises romanes à coupoles.
A oui j’oubliais aussi : le ciel du Quercy (Lot) est réputé dans le milieu de l’astronomie être le plus beau de France, aussi si vous aimez les ciels étoilés… 🙂
Comme Blate j’avais d’autres projets pour cet été mais à force d’en parler…😇
"La seule chose dont on soit sûr, en ce qui concerne l'avenir, c'est qu'il n'est jamais conforme à nos prévisions." (Jean Dutourd)
Bonjour, excellente idée la Dordogne, j'y vais tous les ans voir ma grand-mère, c'est une région superbe; je n'ai pas grand chose à ajouter aux conseils très exhaustifs de Ludomero, sinon une suggestion : descendre la Dordogne en canoë entre Domme et Beynac : la rivière est bordée de châteaux à cet endroit, c'est très joli; et un bémol : en été il y a énormément de monde; si tu veux visiter des sites comme le fac-similé de Lascaux ou la grotte de Font de Gaume aux Eyzies, tu as intérêt à aller faire la queue aux aurores pour avoir un billet.
A part ça, bonnes vacances.
Manu
Il y a une piste cyclable amenagée sur l ancienne voie de chemin de fer entre souillac et sarlat. Je crois qu elle commence vers Carsac (environ 10-15km de souillac en allant vers sarlat). De toute facon, il y a en pour tous les gouts pour faire du velo.
Cote descente de la Dordogne en canoe, Les meilleures sections sont Domme-Beynac, mais egalement Saint Sozy-Souillac, la partie Souillac-Saint Julien Lampon n est pas tres riche en monuments.
Ah oui une derniere chose, on ecrit ROCAMADOUR, de ROC-AMADOUR qui vient de Saint Amadour.
Jc
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When I came back to France, I spent 3 months in Paris because I thought it would obviously be the closest to what I was looking for. I still have horrible memories of it—it haunted me so much that I had to escape the capital in a hurry... And I was (I think?) in one of the best neighborhoods for my tastes: Belleville.
So here I am, going in circles because I don’t know enough about French cities. All my friends love quiet, small provincial towns or even living alone in the mountains.
A couple told me about Montreuil, but they were there a long time ago, so I don’t know what it’s like now. They said there was activity, that the city was pretty big, and that there was a good nightlife scene (bars, nightclubs, all kinds of outings), plus the metro (which would make it easy to get to Paris or for people to come to Montreuil from Paris).
So, for now, Montreuil is my only option, but I’m scared and would love other opinions (on Montreuil and other possibilities).
Sorry for the novel, but this is *really* important to me—my future depends on it, in a way ^^'
Thanks so much for reading and for any help you can give!
Hello,
At the beginning of June, we’ll be spending a few days in Sardinia. We’ve decided to return via a detour through Corsica and want to make the crossing from Santa Teresa di Gallura to Bonifacio (2 people and 1 car). There are currently two companies, Moby Lines and Ichnusa Lines, that operate this route. Unfortunately, we don’t know either of them at all. The prices and crossing times are pretty much the same, and we’d like to choose the most reliable one (punctuality/risk of cancellation for a booked crossing) and, if possible, the more comfortable of the two. Could you share your thoughts on either company to help us decide? Thanks in advance for your replies.
Have a great day.
Hi everyone,
I’m thinking about planning several short trips in France outside peak tourist seasons, especially in spring and autumn.
The idea would be to prioritize:
- fewer crowds at tourist sites - more affordable accommodation prices - a more local atmosphere
However, I also have some concerns about:
- attractions or restaurants sometimes being closed - more unpredictable weather depending on the region - less frequent transportation in certain areas
For those of you who’ve traveled in France off-season before, what do you think were the main pros and cons? Are there any regions or specific times that are particularly worth prioritizing?
Thanks in advance for your experiences! 😊
I’m thinking about planning several short trips in France outside peak tourist seasons, especially in spring and autumn.
The idea would be to prioritize:
- fewer crowds at tourist sites - more affordable accommodation prices - a more local atmosphere
However, I also have some concerns about:
- attractions or restaurants sometimes being closed - more unpredictable weather depending on the region - less frequent transportation in certain areas
For those of you who’ve traveled in France off-season before, what do you think were the main pros and cons? Are there any regions or specific times that are particularly worth prioritizing?
Thanks in advance for your experiences! 😊
Hi there,
I’m looking for a ski resort in the Massif Central for a family trip—two adults and three kids (ages 4, 5, and 6)—for a week between late February and early March.
The main goal is to introduce my kids to skiing, so I’m looking for a resort that’s really "family-friendly." But honestly, almost every resort (Super-Besse, Mont-Dore, Lioran, etc.) claims to be family-friendly, so I’m not sure which one to choose. Plus, it’s not always easy to check the location of accommodations on booking sites.
For what I have in mind, we don’t need 30 km of slopes. What would be ideal, though, is a resort that’s mostly pedestrian-friendly, with lodging within a reasonable distance from the base of the slopes and a ski school available.
I’ve read some things here about places like "Chalmazel-Jeansagnière," but the thread is a bit old.
Any recommendations?
Thanks so much for your help!
Best,
deb75
I’m looking for a ski resort in the Massif Central for a family trip—two adults and three kids (ages 4, 5, and 6)—for a week between late February and early March.
The main goal is to introduce my kids to skiing, so I’m looking for a resort that’s really "family-friendly." But honestly, almost every resort (Super-Besse, Mont-Dore, Lioran, etc.) claims to be family-friendly, so I’m not sure which one to choose. Plus, it’s not always easy to check the location of accommodations on booking sites.
For what I have in mind, we don’t need 30 km of slopes. What would be ideal, though, is a resort that’s mostly pedestrian-friendly, with lodging within a reasonable distance from the base of the slopes and a ski school available.
I’ve read some things here about places like "Chalmazel-Jeansagnière," but the thread is a bit old.
Any recommendations?
Thanks so much for your help!
Best,
deb75
Hi,
We’re heading to Corsica at the end of July, and after a 4-night stay in Zonza, I’d like to head toward Cargèse or Porto to visit the Calanques de Piana. What’s the actual travel time? Maps says 2h40/3h, but I’m wondering if that’s really accurate.
How long does it take to get back to Ajaccio Airport afterward?
Thanks!
Hi everyone,
I’m planning a trip to Normandy and, after reading quite a few posts here, I still have some questions about the most logical order to avoid spending too much time on the road.
The idea is to have a fairly smooth itinerary, taking the time to enjoy the places, over about ten days (possibly a little more), combining the coast and the inland areas.
I’m particularly wondering about: – The best starting point (starting with Mont-Saint-Michel or saving it for the end) – The balance between the coastline and more inland areas – The areas where it’s really worth slowing down the pace
If any of you have done a route that felt particularly coherent, your feedback would really help me fine-tune the planning.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
I’m planning a trip to Normandy and, after reading quite a few posts here, I still have some questions about the most logical order to avoid spending too much time on the road.
The idea is to have a fairly smooth itinerary, taking the time to enjoy the places, over about ten days (possibly a little more), combining the coast and the inland areas.
I’m particularly wondering about: – The best starting point (starting with Mont-Saint-Michel or saving it for the end) – The balance between the coastline and more inland areas – The areas where it’s really worth slowing down the pace
If any of you have done a route that felt particularly coherent, your feedback would really help me fine-tune the planning.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
Hi,
I saw that the first tram from Pont du Garigliano leaves at 5:15 AM, and by taking the RER B at Cité Universitaire afterward, I’d arrive at Roissy at 6:30 AM—2 hours before my international flight.
Is this doable, or not? If anyone’s done this before, I’d love to hear about it.
Thanks
Hi there,
We’re about to finalize a booking for late July near the Pink Granite Coast. We’re wondering about the traffic jams that could make our trip miserable, given how famous the place is—we’re excited to see it too. Could it get pretty bad?
Thanks for sharing your experiences.
In June 2020, my wife and I will be visiting Brittany and Normandy. We’d especially love to explore villages that aren’t part of the usual tourist routes. We enjoy traveling off the beaten path.
We’re reaching out to you all to share which villages we should check out in these two regions. Thanks.
We’re reaching out to you all to share which villages we should check out in these two regions. Thanks.
Hello everyone,
Here’s the account of the start of our 5/7-day trip in Normandy (then off to the neighbors in... Brittany):
Day 01 from Valenciennes to Mont Saint-Michel: Sunday, September 6, 2020.
After a detour through the south of Lille (picking up our son), we head southwest around 10:00 AM, taking the highways via Amiens, the Pont de Normandie, and Avranches to arrive at "the Mount" around 4:00 PM after 515 km. Parking P3 (14.20 € for 24 hours) for residents and hotels, located 50 meters from the start of the free round-trip shuttle included in the parking price (not too many tourists at this "late" Sunday hour), and we arrive at the hotel around 4:30 PM. Triple room with a view of the bay at Hôtel Du Guesclin for 1 night. From 5:15 PM to 6:30 PM, we tackle the complete tour of the ramparts counterclockwise from the Porte de l’Avancée, via the Tour du Nord (near the abbey entrance), passing in front of the abbey to reach the Tour Gabriel, and back to the start: stunning, not crowded, great weather, and amazing views. Dinner in the beautiful panoramic restaurant of the hotel, with a bay view at a "window" table (such a nice touch!). Of course, the day isn’t over, and we can then wander through a deserted main street and its unique atmosphere (photos below labeled "night" even though it’s only 9:15/9:30 PM). What a privilege!
Day 02 from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Cast: Monday, September 7, 2020.
After a memorable sunrise over the bay and a sit-down breakfast, we climb the steps to the Abbey for our online-reserved time slot (9:30 AM, 11 € per person). The "masked group" is quite large, though within normal limits, and the one-way Covid-marked route (with a small brochure) prevents crowds. No need to rush, and 1 hour 15 minutes later, we’re done. Sure, it doesn’t have the charm of a guided tour, but we’re not complaining about being there! We pick up our bags at the hotel, take the shuttle back, grab the car at Parking P3, and head "south" to Dol-de-Bretagne, 26 km/25 minutes away. Around noon, the small town is very quiet, and parking in front of the Saint-Samson Cathedral** is free. Across the street, the tourist office is generous with info and gives us a great walking map/circuit: Cathedral, a stroll near the ramparts, the historic center** with its typical shopping streets and half-timbered houses, all covered at a leisurely pace in 45 minutes. Then a picnic on-site. It’s another 50 km/50 minutes to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo and the Armor Conseil agency for the apartment keys (Résidence du Casino, 72 m², 5th floor, 2 bedrooms, beach 20 meters away, insane morning and evening views, bed linen rental at Ohier 50 meters away, Carrefour City supermarket, and a bakery 200 meters away, plus a town center that hasn’t changed much in 25/30 years. Really, really nice. After settling in, a short walk is a must up to the heights of the Isle neighborhood behind the seaside residence... memories. Strangely, the well-known Crêperie Bretan’Or seems to be closed, as does the venerable Hôtel du Centre et des Plages (formerly "des Voyageurs")?? And for this reunion evening with the resort, a great crêpe/galette dinner at La Régal’ette, just 100 meters away. Day’s total: 12 km of walking for sightseeing.
A few photos at the bottom of the page...
* Read the rest on the blog: https://blogs.crespel.me/bretagne/
Here’s the account of the start of our 5/7-day trip in Normandy (then off to the neighbors in... Brittany):
Day 01 from Valenciennes to Mont Saint-Michel: Sunday, September 6, 2020.
After a detour through the south of Lille (picking up our son), we head southwest around 10:00 AM, taking the highways via Amiens, the Pont de Normandie, and Avranches to arrive at "the Mount" around 4:00 PM after 515 km. Parking P3 (14.20 € for 24 hours) for residents and hotels, located 50 meters from the start of the free round-trip shuttle included in the parking price (not too many tourists at this "late" Sunday hour), and we arrive at the hotel around 4:30 PM. Triple room with a view of the bay at Hôtel Du Guesclin for 1 night. From 5:15 PM to 6:30 PM, we tackle the complete tour of the ramparts counterclockwise from the Porte de l’Avancée, via the Tour du Nord (near the abbey entrance), passing in front of the abbey to reach the Tour Gabriel, and back to the start: stunning, not crowded, great weather, and amazing views. Dinner in the beautiful panoramic restaurant of the hotel, with a bay view at a "window" table (such a nice touch!). Of course, the day isn’t over, and we can then wander through a deserted main street and its unique atmosphere (photos below labeled "night" even though it’s only 9:15/9:30 PM). What a privilege!
Day 02 from Mont Saint-Michel to Saint-Cast: Monday, September 7, 2020.
After a memorable sunrise over the bay and a sit-down breakfast, we climb the steps to the Abbey for our online-reserved time slot (9:30 AM, 11 € per person). The "masked group" is quite large, though within normal limits, and the one-way Covid-marked route (with a small brochure) prevents crowds. No need to rush, and 1 hour 15 minutes later, we’re done. Sure, it doesn’t have the charm of a guided tour, but we’re not complaining about being there! We pick up our bags at the hotel, take the shuttle back, grab the car at Parking P3, and head "south" to Dol-de-Bretagne, 26 km/25 minutes away. Around noon, the small town is very quiet, and parking in front of the Saint-Samson Cathedral** is free. Across the street, the tourist office is generous with info and gives us a great walking map/circuit: Cathedral, a stroll near the ramparts, the historic center** with its typical shopping streets and half-timbered houses, all covered at a leisurely pace in 45 minutes. Then a picnic on-site. It’s another 50 km/50 minutes to Saint-Cast-le-Guildo and the Armor Conseil agency for the apartment keys (Résidence du Casino, 72 m², 5th floor, 2 bedrooms, beach 20 meters away, insane morning and evening views, bed linen rental at Ohier 50 meters away, Carrefour City supermarket, and a bakery 200 meters away, plus a town center that hasn’t changed much in 25/30 years. Really, really nice. After settling in, a short walk is a must up to the heights of the Isle neighborhood behind the seaside residence... memories. Strangely, the well-known Crêperie Bretan’Or seems to be closed, as does the venerable Hôtel du Centre et des Plages (formerly "des Voyageurs")?? And for this reunion evening with the resort, a great crêpe/galette dinner at La Régal’ette, just 100 meters away. Day’s total: 12 km of walking for sightseeing.
A few photos at the bottom of the page...
* Read the rest on the blog: https://blogs.crespel.me/bretagne/
Hi there,
I’m traveling alone from my remote Pyrenees home to Roissy Airport, arriving at Austerlitz Station. I’m a bit nervous about getting to the airport—could you suggest a route?
While you’re at it, maybe you could recommend a budget hotel near the airport?
Thanks so much for your help!
Best to you all
I’m traveling alone from my remote Pyrenees home to Roissy Airport, arriving at Austerlitz Station. I’m a bit nervous about getting to the airport—could you suggest a route?
While you’re at it, maybe you could recommend a budget hotel near the airport?
Thanks so much for your help!
Best to you all
Hi everyone,
I’m looking into a trip to Paris around mid-February. I’d love to know more about the temperature (weather) in Paris, museum access (closures or anything else), how easy it is to get around on foot (slippery due to ice?), public transport, etc.
Also, are there any events or activities I absolutely shouldn’t miss? I could adjust my dates based on what you know.
On another note, I’d love to catch a hockey game. Are there any around Paris? I’m happy to watch a few games no matter the level 🏒🥅
FYI, I’m not afraid of the cold since I’m from Quebec 😁😆😆🧑🌾
Thanks in advance for your help! 👍😊❤️❤️
I’m looking into a trip to Paris around mid-February. I’d love to know more about the temperature (weather) in Paris, museum access (closures or anything else), how easy it is to get around on foot (slippery due to ice?), public transport, etc.
Also, are there any events or activities I absolutely shouldn’t miss? I could adjust my dates based on what you know.
On another note, I’d love to catch a hockey game. Are there any around Paris? I’m happy to watch a few games no matter the level 🏒🥅
FYI, I’m not afraid of the cold since I’m from Quebec 😁😆😆🧑🌾
Thanks in advance for your help! 👍😊❤️❤️
Hi,
This summer, we’re planning a family trip to Corsica.
We’ve chosen Sari Solenzara because we want to combine: sea, mountain hikes, natural pools, canyoning, and peace and quiet. Does this choice seem like a good one to you?
Second question: which airport should we prioritize to have the easiest roads to access?
Thanks in advance for your tips! :-)
This summer, we’re planning a family trip to Corsica.
We’ve chosen Sari Solenzara because we want to combine: sea, mountain hikes, natural pools, canyoning, and peace and quiet. Does this choice seem like a good one to you?
Second question: which airport should we prioritize to have the easiest roads to access?
Thanks in advance for your tips! :-)
Hi everyone,
We’ve wanted to visit Alsace for a long time to see the famous and well-known "Christmas markets."
Apart from the one in Strasbourg, could you give us some tips on other markets (Sélestat, Colmar, Mulhouse)?
Also, any recommendations for hotels, restaurants, or things to see, etc.?
I know my question is a bit "basic," but we really need some expert advice.
Thanks in advance to all.
Hi there,
I’m planning to spend three days in the Annecy region. What would you recommend visiting? Just so you know, I love nature and enjoy walking, but I prefer hikes that aren’t longer than two hours.
Thanks for your great tips!
I’m planning to spend three days in the Annecy region. What would you recommend visiting? Just so you know, I love nature and enjoy walking, but I prefer hikes that aren’t longer than two hours.
Thanks for your great tips!
How do I get to ibis budget coeur orly from the Metro Line 14 Orly station on foot
Hi there,
My husband, our 1-year-old son, and I have decided to head to southern France in mid-September.
We don’t know the region at all—it’ll be our first time.
We only have 9 days, and we’re really torn between Provence for its gorgeous villages, its "slow" vibe, Provençal markets, flavors, and colors, and the famous French Riviera for its beaches, ports, and because it’s intrigued us for so long.
I found a beautiful place to stay in a *mas*, but it’s not in the region at all (it’s in the Gard).
My husband found a place he really likes in Saint-Aygulf, but before booking, I’m hesitating and wanted to get some advice.
Obviously, with only 9 days, we clearly have to choose. I thought about splitting the trip in two, but that seems like a bad idea for two reasons: first, we’re traveling with a little one, and second, if we spread ourselves too thin, we risk not seeing anything properly.
Since we don’t know the area at all, I’m worried the coastline might be too built-up with big buildings, etc., like Lloret de Mar (no offense to anyone who loves it—it’s just not what we’re looking for).
Anyway… what would you recommend for a first 9-day trip to the south?
Thanks so much!
My husband, our 1-year-old son, and I have decided to head to southern France in mid-September.
We don’t know the region at all—it’ll be our first time.
We only have 9 days, and we’re really torn between Provence for its gorgeous villages, its "slow" vibe, Provençal markets, flavors, and colors, and the famous French Riviera for its beaches, ports, and because it’s intrigued us for so long.
I found a beautiful place to stay in a *mas*, but it’s not in the region at all (it’s in the Gard).
My husband found a place he really likes in Saint-Aygulf, but before booking, I’m hesitating and wanted to get some advice.
Obviously, with only 9 days, we clearly have to choose. I thought about splitting the trip in two, but that seems like a bad idea for two reasons: first, we’re traveling with a little one, and second, if we spread ourselves too thin, we risk not seeing anything properly.
Since we don’t know the area at all, I’m worried the coastline might be too built-up with big buildings, etc., like Lloret de Mar (no offense to anyone who loves it—it’s just not what we’re looking for).
Anyway… what would you recommend for a first 9-day trip to the south?
Thanks so much!
Hi
Does anyone know a reliable and affordable shuttle service from Roissy airport to Lille train station?
I know there are TGVs, but we’d like to avoid a long wait at Roissy station.
Thanks in advance for your tips!
BD