Attractions and Places To See around Sainte-Croix - Top 15

The region around Sainte-Croix is rich in historical sites, particularly bastide towns and castles. You can visit the magnificent Biron Castle, which has undergone numerous architectural transformations over centuries and hosts activities. Another must-see is the Bastide of Monpazier, one of the most beautiful bastide villages in the Périgord, known for its impressive arcades and medieval market hall.

Yes, the most prominent castle is Biron Castle. Classified as a 'Site Majeur d'Aquitaine', it sits on a hill and offers a glimpse into centuries of history and architectural evolution. It also hosts art exhibitions and family animations during school holidays, including evening markets in July and August.

A bastide is a fortified medieval town, typically built with a grid-like plan. The region around Sainte-Croix is famous for them. You can explore the Bastide of Monpazier, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the Périgord. Its layout, with magnificent arcades and a large period wooden market hall in the Monpazier Market Square, offers a true journey back in time. Another impressive bastide is Beaumont-du-Périgord, known for its medieval streets and the 'H' shape of its construction.

Yes, you can visit St Dominic's Church in Monpazier. This pretty church is dedicated to Saint Dominic, whose life and pastoral work spanned the late 12th and early 13th centuries across Spain, France, and Italy.

Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. Biron Castle offers animations and treasure hunts for kids during school holidays. The Bastide of Monpazier and its Market Square are also great for families to explore, offering a glimpse into medieval town life with charming streets and a historic market hall.

While the immediate attractions are historical, the surrounding region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous MTB trails, running trails, and road cycling routes. These routes often pass through picturesque landscapes and charming villages, allowing you to combine historical exploration with active outdoor pursuits.

Visitors particularly appreciate the rich history and well-preserved medieval architecture. The Bastide of Monpazier is frequently praised for its beauty and the feeling of stepping back in time. The Biron Castle is loved for its impressive structure, historical depth, and the activities it hosts. The overall charm of the villages and the historical significance of the sites are highly valued by the komoot community.

From Biron Castle, located on a hill, you can enjoy a beautiful terrace with extensive visibility in good weather, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The area's bastide towns, like Beaumont-du-Périgord, also provide picturesque settings with authentic medieval buildings.

The Porte de Luzier is an old entrance gate that was part of the city walls of Beaumont-du-Périgord. This impressive bastide, built in the shape of an 'H' in memory of Henry III, is known for its beautiful medieval streets and buildings, and the gate serves as a historical reminder of its past fortifications.

Yes, the Monpazier Market Square is a historical site known for its central market hall, offering a glimpse into medieval town life where markets would have been central. Biron Castle hosts night markets during the summer months, providing a unique cultural experience. Additionally, Beaumont-du-Périgord hosts a Brocante market on Wednesdays.

Monpazier showcases remarkable medieval architecture. The bastide features magnificent arcades and a large period wooden market hall in its central square. The town's planned layout, reminiscent of Roman planning, distinguishes it from organically built medieval settlements. Some houses appear to lean, adding to the unique charm and historical character of this beautiful village.