Extending across the most northerly swathe of the Dordogne département, the Green Périgord takes its name from its profuse vegetation and numerous streams and rivers (such as the Dronne, Isle, Auvézère and Bandiat), as well as its varied natural landscapes and rich historical heritage. These natural assets have led to the creation of the Parc Naturel Régional Périgord Limousin, which extends across two départements. One of the park’s main aims is to protect and conserve local resources and traditional skills. 

Situated in the heart of the département, the White Périgord takes its name from the whiteness of the region’s stone, which is so prized by sculptors. The area is crossed by the Isle and Auvézère rivers, which offer excellent fishing, and is also home to Périgueux, the old city of Vesunna with its Gallo-Roman remains. Périgueux, the capital of the département, is a “Town of Art and History”, with narrow streets bordered by townhouses in its protected historical districts and the Saint-Front cathedral, a stopping point along the Way of St James UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

In the south-east of the département, the Black Périgord is recognised worldwide for the wealth of prehistoric remains in the Vézère and Dordogne valleys and has been designated as an International Centre for Prehistory. The Vézère valley is home to some of the richest prehistoric sites in Europe, including Palaeolithic sites, caves and natural rock shelters. Fifteen of these decorated sites are classified as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. 

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