Your holiday guide to Sarlat in the Dordogne

Sarlat is one of the most visited towns in France and for good reason. Located just a few km north of the Dordogne river it is a beautifully restored town dating back to both medieval and renaissance times. The yellow sandstone buildings create a maze of little lanes which come alive with colour and bold shadows as the sun rises and passes over them. Head for the central square called the 'place de la Liberté' and on Saturdays and Wednesdays you will find a large market selling local produce such as geese, flowers, foie gras, truffles, walnuts and mushrooms in season. Whilst in the square, look up at the roofs of the buildings, particularly that of the Maison de La Boétie, probably the towns most impressive house, and notice the thick limestone roof tiles known as 'lauzes'. Just imagine how much that roof must weigh and think what size the timbers must be holding it up!