Magie d’Hiver 2023
During summer, Dordogne is a popular place to spend your holiday. But during the colder months like fall and winter, visiting Dordogne can be a magical experience as well.
Sure, it can be wet and cold here, but just as easily sunny and pleasant. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes and charming villages. And during the holiday season, Dordogne utilises this historic scenery and villages to create an ambiance filled with charming markets, enchanting illuminations, and festive events.
As early as end-November, the villages begin preparing for the Christmas season. People are putting up Christmas lights, menu’s in restaurants change and first announcements of Christmas markets and other events are made.
The December month also caters to the gourmet in you. The renowned cuisine of the Périgord region holds an even greater allure during this season, with its rich flavors and comforting dishes. Download our Dordogne winter magazine here, or read on below.
Bûche de Noël
A long, long time ago… in a land of sweet wonders, Belgium to be precise, there lived a dessert aficionado named Sven. Among all the confections in the world, he loved one particular treat: Bûche de Noël. When Sven moved to The Netherlands, he decided to share his love for Bûche de Noël (aka: Kerststronk) with his family and friends. Every year around Christmas, Sven drove to Belgium just to get the perfect Bûche de Noël. Little did Sven know back then, that the origins of his ‘Kerststronk’ actually traced back to the culinary kingdom of… France!
This dessert, also known as Yule log cake, has been a French tradition for centuries during Christmas feasts. And of course, in Belgium, it has also become a beloved holiday tradition.
Bûche de Noël has its roots in medieval rituals. Families would burn large wooden logs to symbolize the return of longer days and good luck for the coming year. Over time, this tradition evolved into the creation of a cake, shaped like a log.
Although it comes in all shapes and forms, the cake is typically made of a rolled sponge cake filled with cream or buttercream. And frosted to resemble the texture of a log. It is often decorated with chocolate ganache, powdered sugar, meringue mushrooms, and other festive elements. You’ll find it at the local Pâtisserie & Boulangerie. Or order in advance at Mamy Clafouty in Beaumont-du-Périgord at 7km of Maison Saint-Blaise.
And although nowadays it is popular in other countries as well, some desserts are worth the trip.
Christmas Markets
During the weeks before Christmas, several villages are making an effort in decorating and putting up Christmas lights.
Against a backdrop of medieval architecture, Marchés de Noël, Christmas Markets, offer local crafts, delectable treats and festive entertainment. Here are some recommendations for your Christmas Markets itinerary. Do visit the linked (tourist office) websites and socials for event agenda’s and details. For more information on regular markets that take place during the year, do check out this blogpost.
Villeréal: The village market and surrounding buildings and shops are decorated well, thanks to the efforts of its local merchants and the amazing florist, Maryflor.
From December 22nd to 24th, the central Marketplace comes alive with markets and events. Prior to these dates, starting half of November, you can already enjoy the village’s festive atmosphere in the making and of course explore the local establishments for a drink or bite to eat.
Sarlat-la-Canéda: A Christmas village, with wooden chalets offering local crafts and regional delicacies. The market starts on December 4th and continues until December 31st.
Situated at the Place de la Grande-Rigaudie and Place du 14 juillet, where you’ll find an ice skating rink, magic shows, and games. For more on Sarlat during winter, click here
Monpazier: On December 15th, Monpazier invites you to experience its charming Christmas market. With a variety of stalls, music, and the presence of Père Noël (Santa Claus). Take in the historic market square as you browse through the stalls, offering gifts and local delights.
Bergerac: Offers a broad program between the 9th of December till end of the year. A gourmet village, an artisanal village, a children’s village, workshops, enough to see and do.
New Years Eve
Réveillons du Nouvel An, New Years Eve, is typically celebrated with friends, champagne and fireworks. A ‘réveillon’ is a luxurious and festive diner, and comes from ‘reveiller’, meaning ‘to awaken, arouse’. Several restaurants in the area offer a festive diner at the 31st of December or brunch at the 1st of January. Please find here a small overview, do make sure to reserve up front.
Perhaps you prefer to stay in and enjoy spending time together in a cosy atmosphere, cooking up winter dishes in a well-equipped kitchen. Set a large table for a memorable evening filled with good company. Or unwind with a movie or challenge each other to a board game.
During the day, enjoy leisurely walks in the crisp air or stocking up on treats for later enjoyment at the spacious dining table, illuminated by candlelight.
Bonne année!
The rich heritage of Dordogne offers a tranquil experience when you visit it outside of the peak season. One of the aspects of visiting during fall and winter is the opportunity to explore themed markets and events that are different from those held in the summer. Despite the quieter atmosphere, the region still exudes a joyful and festive ambiance.
We have availability during the off-season months, do secure your booking and explore history, nature, cuisine in comfort at Maison Saint-Blaise.
