Beginning in Haute Vienne, the river Dronne winds part of its course between Brantôme and Bourdeilles. Why not make the trip in a canoe? You'll appreciate the bewitching calm of this river as it winds along, and you'll be able to discover the region's rich heritage and bucolic landscapes.

You can rent an unsinkable canoe from Allô Canoës (see details in the column at left) and gently travel down the Dronne to Bourdeilles. Ancient ruins and dams punctuate the approximately 3 hour trip. You don't need to be an experienced sailor or be 20 years old. It's a pleasant fresh air excursion, with no strong currents, as you float along the water. You will have a picturesque arrival when, at a bend in the river, the château comes into view, built up on a rocky terrace and fitted with a lookout over the Dronne.

Arrival at the Château de Bourdeilles
This is one of four baronies in Périgord. A distinction must be made between two castles from different eras, built on a rocky terrace with ramparts, overlooking the river Dronne.

The feudal fortress (13th-14th century) forms a machicolated surrounding wall, punctuated with gemeled windows. It is dominated by an octagonal dungeon almost 35m in height, with four vaulted levels and 2.4m thick walls.

The Renaissance residence (16th century) has richly adorned rooms like the sumptuous décor of the "golden salon". It has a prestigious collection of furniture (15th to 19th century), in particular the Charles Quint bed with its gold sculptures.

After visiting the château, you'll be picked up by car. Having left early in the morning, you'll return in the afternoon with an empty stomach…. Time to try Au Fil du Temps restaurant.