Most beautiful villages in France

In 1982, The Association of  “Plus beaux villages de France”' was created with the aim of promoting tourism in small rural Parishes (Less than 5000 inhabitants) with a rich heritage. 

A rigourous survey had been conducted before awarding this title. And today only 151 villages have been given the award, of which 9 are in the Dordogne and 6 are in The Black Périgord.

Saint Léon sur Vézère

Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère is a charming little village with a 450 inhabitants, half way between Les Eyzies and Montignac.  Nestling in a loop of the Vézère, the entrance to this picturesque village is protected by a 14th century Salle Manor and a dungeon.

The Gothic Castle of Clèrans with its 16th century machicolation Tower is right in the town and overlooks the river. The Jewel of Saint Léon sur Vézère  is its 12th century Norman church which was built with golden stone of the area and has a stone-tiled roof.

Note: in the cemetery, an inscription in the Occitan language on the pediment of the chapel of death relates a village myth.  As legend has it, a servant fired an arrow onto the church crucifix and was immediately struck down dead, but with his head back to front.  At the end of the 19th century, archaeologists excavated his tomb only to find to their surprise, a skeleton with its head back to front...

Saint Amand de Coly

This village is characterized by several typical houses and dovecotes of the Black Périgord.  However, it is known above all for its finest fortified Abbey (built in the 12th century) which is particularly imposing due to its huge gothic arch and the porch way.  The fortification and the numerous defensives give idea of the importance of this Augustine abbey which has ruled over vast territories and came through the trials of the Hundred Years War and the religious wars.

 In addition to « les plus beaux villages de France » The Vézère Valley distinguishes itself from other territories with unique typical villages which must be visited during your Holiday in Dordogne-Périgord.