THE BASTIDE TRAIL
Discover the Medieval Market Towns of the Dordogne
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THE ROUTE
Belvès → Monpazier → Beaumont-du-Périgord → Molières → Belvès
Approximate driving time: 1 hour 10 minutes (61 KM)
Recommended time: A full day
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THE BASTIDE TRAIL
There are few places in France where medieval history feels so alive.
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Scattered across the rolling countryside of the Dordogne are remarkable bastides—carefully planned towns founded more than seven centuries ago. Built with elegant market squares, straight streets and beautiful stone arcades, these medieval settlements continue to thrive today, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history.
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Beginning in Belvès, this carefully planned route explores three of the Dordogne's finest bastides. From the magnificent square of Monpazier to the peaceful charm of Molières, it's a journey through timeless villages, beautiful countryside and some of the Périgord Noir's most rewarding scenery.
Allow a full day, take your time and enjoy one of the Dordogne's most memorable drives.
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WHAT IS A BASTIDE?
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Unlike many medieval villages that grew naturally over centuries, bastides were carefully planned from the beginning.
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Founded during the 13th and 14th centuries by the Kings of France, the Kings of England and powerful local lords, they were designed to encourage trade, attract settlers and strengthen the region.
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Today, they're instantly recognisable by their:
• Spacious central market squares
• Straight streets laid out in a grid
• Covered arcades
• Elegant stone houses
• Historic churches and defensive gateways
Many continue to host weekly markets exactly as they have for centuries, making them wonderful places to experience authentic village life.
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MONPAZIER
Often described as the finest preserved bastide in France, Monpazier is the undisputed highlight of the trail.
Founded in 1284 by Edward I of England, its remarkably symmetrical streets still lead visitors towards one of the country's most beautiful medieval market squares. Beneath the elegant arcades you'll find independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants that make Monpazier a wonderful place to spend the morning.
Don't miss the Place des Cornières, the covered walkways and the beautifully preserved medieval architecture that has changed remarkably little over the centuries.
BEAUMONT-DU-PÉRIGORD
A short drive north brings you to Beaumont-du-Périgord.
Its wide central square, elegant streets and impressive fortified church create a wonderfully open atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the narrower lanes of Monpazier.
Pause for lunch on one of the terraces overlooking the square before exploring the Church of Saint-Front and wandering the peaceful streets that have welcomed travellers for more than seven hundred years.
MOLIÈRES
Quiet, authentic and refreshingly peaceful, Molières is one of the Dordogne's hidden treasures.
Founded in the late 13th century but never fully completed, it offers visitors a glimpse of a bastide untouched by mass tourism. Its peaceful square, medieval streets and surrounding countryside make it the perfect final stop before returning to Belvès.
It's the sort of village that rewards those who simply wander without a plan.
RETURN TO BELVÈS
As the afternoon draws to a close, return to Belvès and enjoy a slower pace once again.
Relax beneath the medieval market hall with a glass of Bergerac wine, enjoy dinner on a sunny terrace or take an evening stroll through the village's ancient streets as the golden light settles across the honey-coloured stone.
It's the perfect ending to a day spent discovering the remarkable bastides of the Dordogne.
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CONTINUE EXPLORING
The Bastide Trail is just one of several unforgettable journeys beginning in Belvès.
Discover spectacular castles, riverside villages, peaceful forest roads and some of the most beautiful scenery in southwest France through our collection of hand-picked day trips.
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Visitor Information
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THE ROUTE
Belvès → Monpazier → Beaumont-du-Périgord → Molières → Belvès
Approximate driving time: 1 hour 10 minutes (61 KM)
Recommended time: A full day
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Belvès → Monpazier
16 km • Approx. 16 mins
Monpazier → Beaumont-du-Périgord
16 km • Approx. 15 mins
Beaumont-du-Périgord → Molières
12 km • Approx. 14 mins
Molières → Belvès
18 km • Approx. 23 mins
Total Route
Total Distance: Approx. 61 km
Total Driving Time: Approx. 1 hr 10 mins
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