An Escape to Villars: The Hidden Jewel of the Périgord Vert
Welcome to Villars, a village where time seems to have stood still to better preserve its treasures. Nestled in the heart of the Périgord Vert, just 15 kilometers from Brantôme, Villars is more than just a stopover: it is a snapshot of French history, an architectural feat, and a natural underground masterpiece.
Whether you are a fan of historic stone buildings, a prehistoric enthusiast, or simply in search of a bucolic stroll less than 20 kilometers from Kawan Village Château le Verdoyer, Villars is the ideal destination for a day of wonder.
Château de Puyguilhem: A touch of the Loire in the Dordogne
One would expect to come across such a silhouette on the banks of the Cher or the Loire rivers. Yet, it is right here, around a winding road, that the Château de Puyguilhem appears. Built in the 16th century by Mondot de la Marthonie, a close associate of King Francis I, this castle is one of the rarest and purest examples of Renaissance architecture in the Périgord.
A balance between the Middle Ages and Italian elegance
Puyguilhem is a fascinating testament to the artistic transition of that era. Its asymmetrical facade is intriguing: on one side, a slender hexagonal tower, and on the other, a massive round tower reminiscent of medieval fortresses. But upon closer inspection, it is the Italian influences that catch the eye: refined sculptures, elaborate dormer windows, and an elegance that rivals even Chambord.
An interior that tells a story
Inside, the refinement continues. Do not miss the superb fireplace adorned with the Twelve Labors of Hercules, a masterpiece of sculpture, as well as the wooden frame crafted with surgical precision. Upon leaving, take the time to stroll through the wooded park, where a period dovecote stands as a witness to the estate’s past wealth.
The Grotte de Villars: The Crystal Palace of the Périgord
Just a few minutes from the castle, change your world entirely by diving underground. The Grotte de Villars is a true natural museum, explored over more than 13 kilometers of galleries (with 600 meters open to the public).
A spectacle of sparkling formations
Here, water and time have sculpted a fairylike setting. Stalactites, stalagmites, translucent draperies, and pristine white calcite flows follow one another. Nature reveals itself as an artist, creating forms so delicate they seem unreal under the skillfully orchestrated lighting.
The Rotunda of the Horses: The art of our ancestors
But the Grotte de Villars hides an even more precious secret: it is the only cave in the Périgord to feature both natural formations and cave art. 17,000 years ago, our ancestors painted horses and bison here. The highlight? The famous “scene of the bison and the man,” one of the rare human representations in prehistoric art. A film of blue calcite covers some of the paintings, lending them a mystical aura unique in the world.
A friendly tip: Even if the sun is shining outside, the cave maintains a constant 13°C (55°F). Remember to bring a sweater!
The hidden gem: The Cistercian Abbey of Boschaud
If you thought you had seen it all, Villars has one last surprise in store: the ruins of the Abbaye de Boschaud. Founded in the 12th century in a wooded valley (the “Bosco Cavo”), this Cistercian abbey offers a romantic and peaceful spectacle today.
Partially destroyed during the Wars of Religion, it retains breathtaking remnants, such as its dome which seems suspended in mid-air. The site is free and open to the public. It is the perfect place for a moment of meditation or an improvised picnic in the shade of the great trees, far from the tourist bustle.
Organizing your day in Villars
To make the most of the experience, we recommend planning your day as follows:
- Morning: Explore the Grotte de Villars to enjoy the cool temperatures.
- Lunch: A rustic picnic near the Abbaye de Boschaud or lunch at a small restaurant in nearby Brantôme.
- Afternoon: Visit the Château de Puyguilhem and stroll through its park.
- End of the day: Take the “Boucle de Villars,” an easy 9 km hiking trail that connects all these sites through the chestnut forests.
Practical information and useful links
- Grotte de Villars: www.grotte-villars.com – Remember to book your time slot, especially in summer!
- Château de Puyguilhem: Managed by the National Monuments center; allow about an hour for the visit.
- Distance: Located less than 20 minutes from Château le Verdoyer.
Villars is much more than just a village in the Dordogne; it is a journey between shadow and light, between the strength of stone and the softness of nature. An essential stop during your stay in the Périgord Vert!
Boots on: The most beautiful hikes around Villars
For those who prefer to discover the Périgord Vert at their own pace, Villars is the starting point for bucolic trails winding through shaded valleys, crystalline streams, and hidden heritage. Here are our three favorite routes:
1. The Boucle de Boschaud (The Monks’ Trail)
This is the essential hike to embrace all the magic of the area. This circuit of about 6 km (1.5 to 2 hours) takes you from the village center to the romantic ruins of the Abbaye de Boschaud.
- The little extra: The path crosses chestnut undergrowth typical of the region and offers stunning views of the Château de Puyguilhem emerging from the forest as if in a fairy tale.
2. The Trincou Valley Trail
For those who appreciate the cool air, this 9 km (approx. 2h45) trail partially follows the course of the small “Le Trincou” river. It is a very soothing route, ideal for sunny days.
- See along the way: You will pass near the entrance to the caves and discover small stone bridges and old mills that bear witness to the village’s past activity.
3. The Great Loop of the Périgord Vert (Villars version)
For more experienced hikers, it is possible to join the GR 36 which passes nearby. By combining several local paths, you can create a loop of 12 to 15 km connecting Villars to the neighboring village of Quinsac.
- The appeal: A total immersion in the Périgord countryside, between limestone plateaus and protected wetlands. Keep your eyes peeled—it’s not rare to spot deer in the early morning!
Practical note: The trails are generally well marked (yellow markings for local loops). Remember to ask for the hiking map at the reception of Château le Verdoyer or at the tourist office before you leave!
