Brantome is a very attractive town near the northern edge of the Dordogne department. It is known as the Venice of the Dordogne. That description is a big exaggeration.

The town developers used the bend in river Dronne as a moat around the outskirts. Today this defensive feature is full of pleasure boats. Walking around this marvellous town is one of the really enjoyable experiences of the Dordogne. Unfortunately the centre of the town is not as attractive as the outer edges. There are a number of riverside restaurants where you can sit outside and while away a few hours watching the ducks and the rivercraft in the sunshine.

Brantome has a pleasing mix of medieval and renaissance architectural buildings to admire. The town is classed as one of 'les Plux Beaux Detours'. The white limestone Benedictine abbey was built by Charlemagne in 769. It is the main historical landmark of Brantome. The belfry behind the church was built in the 11th century and one of the oldest in France. You can see it on a rocky outcrop at the bottom of a cliff.

Canoes can be hired at Brantome for a relaxing glide along the river. Brantome market day is Friday. On the river Cole to the north-east of Brantome, two attractive villages are found - La Chapelle-Faucher and St-Jean-de-Cole - that warrant a visit, and then nearby at Thiviers there is an interesting 'Roman style' church. Continue another 10km north through the forests of northern Dordogne and you will reach the fairy-tale chateau de Jumilhac.

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