Sarlat France

We drove 150 miles or so into France medieval area staying in a the town of Sarlat. We are all very impressed with France's ability to have preserved these towns over the centuries. All of the buildings , and structures are as they were back in the 14th century and earlier. We are now deep into France rural areas. With its narrow, twisting walkways and medieval sandstone buildings, Sarlat is a jewel of a village. It’s one of the most beautiful, most renowned and by far most important tourist sites in France’s Perigord region.


Sarlat is a medieval town that developed around a large Benedictine abbey. Because modern history has largely passed it by, Sarlat has remained preserved and one of the towns most representative of 14th century France. The centre of the old town consists of impeccably restored stone buildings and is largely car-free.

We are definitely busy tourists. We have walked practically every street in search of the culnary and cultural delights and shopping opportunities of course.  It continues to impress us and awakens the appreciation of the people that once built and lived here.

6 of 9 of our touring party

Really nice art in many shops.

One of our challenges is to decide on where are going to dine. Lots of choices.

The shoppers hard at work.

Entrance to a hotel.

Dick and Carolyn 

Max and Debbie

Another tough choice  to make

Gargoyles from 13th century decorate many of the buildings and churches..very odd looking animals.

Tom and Carolyn wondering how to get back.

Nina & Dick have a fine day..again.

Like the golden goose. These geese represent all that is good in Sarlat from culnary to economics. 

Saint Emilion , France & San Sabastian ,Spain

Drive from Spain was quicker than expected via highway. The country roads are more more scenic but winding , narrow and slow. Very little traffic on Spain or French highways. My kind of speed limit as well. Price of fuel at $6 /gallon may have something to do with it ? No passport requirements at the border was helpful and easy. St Emillon is another beautiful / wonderful town to see. Their history goes back to prehistoric times and is a World Heritage site, with fascinating Romanesque churches and homes stretching all along steep and narrow streets. The Romans planted vineyards in what was to become Saint-Émilion as early as the 2nd century. Hard to image how they did it but the town was carved  out of solid rock by the 8th century and has the largest underground church , also hand carved ....impressive to see.

This is area is Bordeaux  country, the heart of the French wineries We did our part of touring the town and eating and drinking the local wine....all good.Don't miss the,French pastries they are the Best ! We had them for breakfast , lunch and through day. We are having a great time wandering around the shops checking out the art, dining, churches, etc. The local people are wonderful. 

Winery one of many

Miles of vines with grapes

Our tour group sneaking in pastry or two

stone walks and streets can be very steep

No shortage of wine for sale

Art cafe ...very nice

Amazing these have been residencies for nearly a 700 years

Rub the boars nose will bring you luck

Not easy getting around

I am still trying to figure out how they got a 20 ton bell  in the tower?

Painting on news print ...look close

Under ground catacombs with pillar supports

care for an 18 liter bottle of wine ?

Bell tower

Great food every where

winery

Driver and co-pilot