Guide to Dordogne & Property for Sale in Department 24

The Dordogne area, part of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, spans over 9,225 square kilometres of stunning countryside and is home to 400,000 residents known as Perigordins. Situated between Paris and the Pyrenees, the Dordogne department is 500 kilometres and a four-hour train journey from Paris, three hours from Toulouse, and one hour and 15 minutes from Bordeaux. Many UK property owners in Dordogne easily fly from various UK airports to Bergerac, Limoges and Brive. With its mix of continental and mountain climates, the Dordogne enjoys a milder winter compared to the UK, with average temperatures about 7 degrees higher. Summers consistently reach over 30 degrees Celsius, ideal for long holidays, while spring and autumn are delightfully warm. The Dordogne, department number 24 of France, offers a diverse array of property types, including traditional Périgordines with iconic roofs, old farmhouses, barn conversions and village properties with charming enclosed courtyards. These homes are aesthetically pleasing and functionally cool, offering respite during the summer months.

Discovering the Périgord

To fully understand the Dordogne’s cultural and geographical diversity, it's important to explore its four distinct areas:

• Périgord Noir, named for its dark, oak-covered forests, is very rich in prehistoric heritage. The area surrounding Limeuil, where the Dordogne and Vézère rivers meet, is dotted with ancient caves, including Lascaux, home to some of the world’s oldest cave paintings. Sarlat, a medieval town with bustling markets, is a highlight of this region. The area also features many stunning castles, including Beynac, Monfort, and Castelnaud.
• Périgord Vert, true to its name, is characterised by its lush greenery and wildlife. The Parc Naturel de Périgord-Limousin is a sanctuary for birdwatchers, home to species like golden orioles and hoopoes. Cycling and hiking are popular in scenic spots like Nontron and the Val de Dronne.
• The limestone plateau of Périgord Blanc offers quaint villages and opportunities for historic conservation. Areas such as Neuvic and Sorges are known for their traditional architecture and lively truffle markets. The region's historical focus on water mills and ancient ruins adds to its charm.
• Périgord Pourpre, famous for its wine routes, is the heart of vineyards, not far from Bergerac and its international airport. Visitors can explore the famous sweet wines of Château Montbazillac and Saussignac. The area's gastronomy, featuring dishes like Confit de Canard and Cabécou cheese, pairs perfectly with local wines.

Key Information about the Dordogne (24)

• Main City/Prefecture: Périgueux
• Nearest Airport: Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (60 km from Périgueux)  
• Population: Around 416,000 (as of the latest census)
• Area: 9,060 sq. kilometres and 3,497 sq. miles
• Landmark: Lascaux Cave, a prehistoric site renowned for its ancient cave paintings.
• Number of Tourists/Year: Approx. 3 million, drawn by its medieval villages, châteaux and gastronomy.

Ideal for Outdoor Activities

With a perfect climate for outdoor pursuits, the Dordogne is a paradise for golf enthusiasts, boasting around ten golf courses. The rivers and open valleys also provide ideal spots for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, horse riding and pony trekking.

Gastronomy Perigourdine

Renowned for its gastronomy, the Dordogne supplies nearly half of France's finest produce, including truffles, foie gras, duck, cheese and fine wines. Its exceptional local cuisine and markets are integral to the Perigordine lifestyle.

Find Your Dream Home in the Dordogne

Here, the property market offers something for every dream: from contemporary homes with sleek designs to centuries-old stone houses steeped in character. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat, a lucrative rental investment, or a character home to restore, the Dordogne never fails to deliver.

Property Types in the Dordogne

In Dordogne, a wide variety of real estate is available, ranging from traditional stone houses to restored farmhouses, village homes, and more prestigious properties, such as châteaux or manor houses. The region is renowned for its architectural heritage, with many gîtes and properties designed for holiday rentals, as well as luxury residences.

Most Common Types of Properties

• Stone Houses: A highly sought-after type of property, often with a garden and outbuildings, reflecting the region’s rich architectural heritage.
• Farmhouses and Longères: Traditional rural homes, some restored with swimming pools, offering authentic charm and potential as rental investments.
• Village Houses: Set in the heart of picturesque towns, these properties offer a blend of local life and proximity to amenities.
• Character Properties: The Dordogne is home to manor houses, Maisons de Maître, and Mansions, which can be ambitious lifestyle projects or tourism investments.
• Contemporary Properties: Modern homes designed with comfort, space and convenience in mind, offering low-maintenance.
• Châteaux: The Dordogne is renowned for its numerous châteaux, prestigious estates rich in history and character, making them ideal for lifestyle projects or luxury hospitality ventures.
• Gîtes and Bed and Breakfasts: Many homes are designed to welcome tourists, offering strong potential for rental income.

Average Property Prices in Dordogne in 2025

• Houses: the average price per sq. metre: €1,668 (source Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Apartments: average price per sq. metre: € 2,065 (source Le Figaro - October 2025)
• Price trends: -3% over the last 12 months. +26% over the last 5 years. (source Le Figaro)

2025 House Prices in Main Dordogne (24) Towns

• Average House Price near Bergerac: €1,676 per sq. metre
• Average House Price near Périgueux: €1,900 per sq. metre
• Average House Price near Eymet: €1,619 per sq. metre
• Average House Price near Sarlat: €1,944 per sq. metre
• Average House Price near Brantôme: €1,498 per sq. metre

(Source: Le Figaro - October 2025)

Why Buy Property in the Dordogne? 

• Affordable Luxury: Lower prices than in Provence or the Côte d’Azur, with higher-quality properties.
• Income Potential: Strong tourism demand (3 million visitors/year) yields a 6–10% annual return for gîtes.
• Accessibility: Direct flights from the UK to Bergerac (1h15m from Bordeaux, 3h from Toulouse).
• Climate: 7°C warmer winters than the UK, with 30°C+ summers, making it ideal for outdoor living.
• Lifestyle: Markets, festivals and a slower pace of life, ranked #1 in France for quality of life (Le Figaro).

If you're considering purchasing a property in the Dordogne, reach out to discuss your search criteria, and let us help you find your dream home in one of France’s most enchanting regions.