The Dordogne is famous for its spectacular scenery, delicious local food and wine and expat community, but where are the best places to buy?
Property in the Dordogne has long been a favourite with overseas buyers, and particularly the British. The region attracts a wide cross-section of people, from families making a permanent move to France, to retirees and those seeking a traditional French lifestyle and income opportunities through the tourist trade.
“French property buyers choose the South West for the rolling green countryside, the beautiful old stone buildings and excellent cuisine and wine,” says Rory Ramsden, a Home Hunts consultant for the South West. “There is also a large international community, so those looking for a full-time home can make friends from all over the world and it’s well served by international and regional airports.”
In terms of property investments, where is just as important as what, so here are some of the most sought after locations to help guide buyers looking for property in the Dordogne.
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Sarlat-la-Canéda
Sarlat-la-Canéda is home to some of the region’s best-preserved medieval architecture. The charming old town, winding medieval streets and buzzy twice-weekly market provide an ambiance that is hard to beat, and it is particularly well known for its sensational local truffles and goose-based products. Its beauty means that it is a favourite location for film directors and there is a long list of films shot here, including “Chocolat” and Luc Besson’s “Jeanne d’Arc”.
Just over an hour away from Brive airport, and being one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Dordogne, Sarlat-la-Canéda is an excellent location to run a B&B or gite business. This authentic hamlet comprises 15th, 17th and 20th century buildings, and operates as a gite and B&B complex on seven hectares of grounds. With a swimming pool in landscaped gardens and expansion possible through the development of additional outbuildings, this is a must-view property at €1,060,000.
Brantôme
The exceptionally beautiful town of Brantôme is instantly recognisable by the 11th century abbey that sits alongside the River Dronne. Referred to fondly by locals as the Venice of Périgord, there are some magnificent traditional stone properties and châteaux available to buy in this area.
This stunning eight-bedroom Napoleon-style 19th century château is a good example of how much buyers can currently get for their money in the Dordogne. With prices and interest rates still low, properties like this are much more affordable than they were several years ago. An exciting renovation opportunity for the right owner, it is on the market for €954,000.
Domme
Domme is a delightful fortified hilltop town. Retaining its original ramparts and half-timbered architecture, it offers a breath-taking view of the Dordogne valley and the nearby villages of La Roque-Gageac and Beynac-et-Cazenac.
This exquisitely pretty five-bedroom stone property is located in Domme and while it is traditional in style, it also offers some luxurious features that makes it the perfect candidate for a family home – permanent or holiday. With beautifully-kept interiors, a bathroom Jacuzzi, hot tub, large wine cellar and swimming pool, this is a stylish country cottage and remarkable value at €720,000.
Périgueux
Périgueux, the capital of the Dordogne department, is an old Roman town with a Byzantine cathedral that is reminiscent of St-Mark’s Basilica in Venice. A historic area with so much to discover, it makes an excellent base for exploring the region.
Périgueux’s proximity to Bergerac, Bordeaux and Brive airports means that it is a superb location from which to operate a B&B business. This elegant 18th century château has ten bedrooms and is situated on nine hectares of grounds. With a bold classic design inside, it is especially appreciated by those interested in the history of the region. The large swimming pool and lush green surroundings provide a tranquil and relaxing setting for holidaymakers when they need a break from their travels. On sale for €1,575,000, this property will not be on the market for long.
To search for more property in the Dordogne, visit Home Hunts’ online portfolio at www.home-hunts.com. To learn more about the best locations to buy property in the Dordogne, speak to a consultant directly on +33 (0)970 44 66 43.
