Manoir Duchamp

An attractive location near the Dropt River in southwestern France's Dordogne department makes Manoir Debussy a fantastic place to immerse in the local culture and explore this lesser-known part of the country.

You're right in the heart of an attractive medieval town Eymet, with a thriving central market square and idyllic location on the banks of the Dropt River. A simple stroll through its pretty streets lined with centuries-old houses will make you feel like you're living in a fairytale. Apart from its Thursday market, there are markets on Tuesdays during the summer months, plus other festivals and celebrations. Many paths running along the Dropt River offer stunning views, and guests are encouraged to explore the parks and scenery on foot or on bicycles. If you're feeling homesick, there's a shop selling British produce in the city centre, while a large supermarket can be found less than a 15-minute walk away.

In addition, there's an array of lovely medieval villages scattered all around the crumbling backcountry, such as Agnac, Miramont-de-Guyenne, Seyches and Lauzun, many of which have charming chateaux, cafés and sleepy streets for wandering around.

Bergerac is only a 30-minute drive away and lies on the Dordogne River, offering a wealth of wholesome opportunities such as boat tours, canoeing and walking. It also has an old town centre, a quay and plenty of boutique shops. Make sure also to visit Maisons de Vins – a historic site and monument that allows you to immerse yourself in the magical world of the renowned "vin liquoreux" (sweet white wine). Classified as a town of art and history, it hosts outdoor concerts in summer, while others might want to head to the fascinating National Tobacco Museum.

Another fantastic city nearby is Agen, with an oceanic climate which helps nature to thrive. You can visit one of its nature reserves and parks, such as the Réserve naturelle nationale de la frayère d'Alose, accessed via an old footbridge and boasting splendid riverside views. Alternatively, explore the city and walk to the Pont-Canal d'Agen bridge to soak up the sunshine before sampling the regional cuisine in one of the restaurants nearby.

The vibrant city and the capital of French wine, Bordeaux, can be reached in just 1.5 hours by car. Radiating 18th-century grandeur, it's bursting at its seams with art galleries, winding streets, vibrant city squares and historical landmarks worth lingering for. After your morning coffee and croissant in one of the terraced cafés that spill effortlessly onto the sidewalk, head to the Grand Théâtre and the nearby Place des Quinconces for a dose of old-world charm. The Place de la Bourse is one of the city's many historic city squares and features grand 18th-century architecture, a fountain and a vast reflecting pool that will become the source of your Instagram posts. After a culture-filled day, find a table in one of the cosy bars or enjoy a fine-dining experience – you'll be truly spoilt for choice here.

The pace of life in the Dordogne is languid, laid back and positively infectious. Relax in bucolic beauty as you drift along the Dordogne River, or wander among the forests and hillside of the Périgord Natural Park.

The foodie scene too, is a relaxed affair. Take your time over your lazy lunches of local duck, black truffles and goats cheese. If you’re feeling energetic, you can even hunt for them yourself. The wine here is second to none, with infamous grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chenin Blanc all having a huge presence here.

The Dordogne is also brimming with history. Castles and chateaux are scattered throughout the region, among the enchanting medieval villages. History of an altogether more ancient sort can also be explored in the incredible prehistoric cave drawings of Lascaux and Grotte de Rouffignac.

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