The dramatic and delectable Dordogne has been attracting holidaymakers and house-buyers for decades, but does it live up to its colourful reputation?
Who hasn’t heard of the Dordogne? This area in southwest France is famous for delectable food, dramatic valleys and great weather. Its inland location east of Bordeaux and south of Limoges, places the Dordogne between the Loire Valley and the Pyrénées. This explains its dramatic river gorges, valleys and lush greenery, but fans of the Dordogne are particularly drawn to its heritage, which is both cultural and culinary: this is the land of truffles, foie gras, Bergerac wines and more.
According to INSEE (the French national statistics office) over 7,000 Brits have chosen to make Dordogne their home, particularly around Eymet and Riberac, but with 9,000km2 there’s no shortage of space. France’s population density is 71 people per km2, but here it drops to 46 people per km2 and most of the area is classed as ‘rural’.
The department comprises four distinct geographical areas: Périgord Vert is to the north surrounding Nontron, Périgord Blanc centres around Périgueux, Périgord Pourpre is southwest Dordogne centred on Bergerac, and Périgord Noir is southeast around Sarlat. Each Périgord has its own valleys, lakes, hiking and mountain-biking trails, wonderful historic architecture and swathes of vineyards.
The Dordogne has very definite seasons, with cold winters averaging between -5°C and 5°C, while summer temperatures reach between 25°C and 35°C, but can get as hot as 42°C.
MATCH THE PLACE TO YOUR POCKET
In 2023, property prices in France have risen to €3,302/m2, yet Dordogne continues to represent great value for money, as properties here cost an average of €1,633/m2. Even better news for investors is that in some areas, you can find properties for under €600/m2 so you should find something to suit your budget.
The most costly areas are around Périgueux, certain suburbs of Bergerac and around Sarlat to the southeast of Dordogne, where properties can fetch up to €4,000/m2. Further out from the cities, in the rural north, your budget will go a lot further.
LOCATION: WHERE TO FIND WHAT YOU WANT
For rental investments, Bergerac’s population of 27,000 includes 47% tenants, so this is a prime location for a buy-to-let. For €160,000, you can invest in a property comprising two apartments and a studio already used as a student let for €1,100 income a month, or be swayed by a beautiful timbered townhouse in the old quarters for just €1
