Riberac Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful town of Riberac in Dordogne, France with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and much more.


Introduction to Riberac

Riberac is a charming town in the heart of the Dordogne region of southwestern France. The town is known for its picturesque landscapes, historic buildings, and delicious cuisine. It is the perfect destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the natural beauty and relaxed pace of life in rural France.

List of Places to Visit in Riberac

Here are some of the key places to visit in Riberac:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eglise St-Jacques: This historic church dates back to the 12th century and is a must-visit for anyone interested in religious architecture and history.
  • Musee du Patrimoine: This museum is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Riberac and features a range of exhibits on local history, art, and traditions.
  • Chateau de Riberac: This imposing castle was originally built in the 13th century and was later rebuilt in the Renaissance style. Although some parts of the castle are now in ruins, the remaining parts provide a fascinating glimpse into the town’s history.

Natural Attractions of Riberac: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lac de la Jemaye: This freshwater lake is located just a short drive from Riberac and is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The surrounding forests also offer a range of hiking trails.
  • Le Parc de Loisirs: This adventure park is perfect for families and features a range of activities including ziplining, treetop walks, and paintballing.
  • The River Dronne: The Dronne river runs through Riberac, and there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing along its banks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Riberac

Riberac and its surrounding areas offer a range of beautiful hiking and biking trails. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • La Voie Verte: This converted railway track is now a popular cycling and hiking trail that runs from Thiviers to Saint-Pardoux-la-Riviere. The route stretches for 29 kilometers and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Riberac: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best things to do in Riberac:

  • Riberac Market: This weekly market is held every Friday and is one of the biggest and most popular in the region. It offers a range of fresh local produce, artisanal crafts, and much more.
  • Wine Tasting Tours: Riberac is located in one of the most famous wine regions of France, and there are plenty of opportunities to taste the local wines at vineyards and wineries in the area.
  • Cooking Classes: Riberac is also known for its delicious cuisine and there are plenty of cooking classes available where you can learn to prepare traditional French dishes like foie gras and confit de canard.

Week-Long Itinerary for Riberac

Here is a sample week-long itinerary for Riberac:

Day 1 Arrive in Riberac, check-in to hotel
Day 2 Visit Eglise St-Jacques and Chateau de Riberac
Day 3 Take a cycling tour of the local vineyards, wine tasting at a local winery
Day 4 Spend the day at Lac de la Jemaye, hiking, swimming and picnicking
Day 5 Visit the weekly market in Riberac, take a cooking class
Day 6 Canoeing or kayaking on the River Dronne
Day 7 Visit nearby towns like Brantome or Perigueux, depart Riberac

Food and Drink Scene of Riberac

Riberac is renowned for its exceptional cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local produce and traditional French cooking techniques. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Foie Gras: A traditional French delicacy made from the liver of a fattened duck or goose. It is often served as an appetizer with toast or brioche.
  • Confit de Canard: Slow-cooked duck legs in their own fat, resulting in tender and flavorful meat. This classic French dish is often served with potatoes and a green salad.
  • Truffle Omelette: Riberac is known for its black truffles, which are often used to flavor dishes like omelets or pasta.
  • Tarte Tatin: A classic French dessert made from caramelized apples baked inside a buttery pastry crust.

Local Beverages

  • Bergerac Wines: Riberac is located in the Bergerac wine region, known for its red, white, and sweet wines. Some of the best-known local varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc.
  • Cognac: This famous French brandy is made from grape wine and is a popular after-dinner drink.

Where to Stay in Riberac: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Riberac offers a range of accommodation options, from upscale hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some of the top options:

  • Les Jardins de Brantome: This stylish guesthouse is located in the heart of Riberac and features comfortable rooms, a beautiful garden, and an outdoor pool.
  • Le Moulin Du Roc: This upscale hotel is housed in a converted 17th-century mill and offers refined rooms, gourmet dining, and a range of luxury amenities.
  • Camping Le Paradis: For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, this family-friendly campsite offers tent and caravan pitches as well as mobile homes for rent.

What to Buy in Riberac: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Riberac:

  • Black Truffles: Riberac is known for its black truffles, which are a must-try for any foodie. You can buy fresh truffles at the weekly market or at local truffle shops.
  • Foie Gras: Another delicious local specialty, foie gras is available at markets and specialty shops throughout Riberac.
  • Pottery: Riberac has a long tradition of pottery making, and there are several local artisans producing beautiful and unique pieces.

Local Culture and Customs of Riberac

Riberac is a small, traditional town where the locals value their cultural identity and heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions, including dress codes for entering religious sites and showing proper etiquette in restaurants and shops.

Best Time to Visit Riberac

The best time to visit Riberac is during the summer months (June-August), when the weather is warm and sunny and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events happening. However, it can be quite crowded with tourists during this time, so those looking for a quieter experience may prefer to visit in the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October).

Do’s and Don’ts of Riberac

Do:

  • Dress conservatively when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of local people without their permission.
  • Leave a restaurant without leaving a tip.
  • litter in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Riberac

Riberac is a very safe town, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any major safety concerns. However, as with any destination, it is always wise to take basic safety precautions like staying aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure.

Health in Riberac

France has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can expect high-quality medical care if necessary. Visitors from EU countries can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access free or reduced-cost medical treatment. Non-EU visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance in place before their trip.

Getting to Riberac: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Riberac

The nearest major airport to Riberac is Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport, which is approximately 90 minutes away by car. There are also several smaller regional airports in the area, including Bergerac Airport and Angouleme-Cognac Airport.

Bus Stations Near Riberac

The town of Riberac is served by several local buses, which connect it to nearby towns and villages. The main bus station is located in the town center.

Other Options

The best way to get to Riberac is by car, as this gives you the flexibility to explore the surrounding countryside and visit nearby attractions. There are also several car rental agencies located in the town center.

How to Get Around in Riberac

Riberac is a small town, and most of the major attractions can be reached on foot. There are also several local buses serving the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Riberac: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have more time to explore the area around Riberac, here are some nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Brantome: This charming town is known as the “Venice of Perigord” for its picturesque river. It’s just a short drive from Riberac and offers plenty of opportunities for culture and cuisine.
  • Sarlat-la-Caneda: This historic town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and was once an important center of the French wine trade.
  • Lascaux Caves: These prehistoric caves are home to some of the most well-preserved examples of Paleolithic cave art in the world and should be on every history buff’s list of must-visit sites.

Conclusion

Riberac is an idyllic town in the heart of the Dordogne region of southwestern France, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and exceptional cuisine. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or just a relaxing getaway, Riberac is the perfect choice. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the trip of a lifetime and experience everything this wonderful town has to offer.