Beynac Castle & Sarlat Market

Driving alongside the winding river of the Dordogne is incredible but suddenly seeing this imposing castle towering over the valley has such an impact that it quite simply took my breath away. 

During the 100 year war between France and England in the 14th century this was the base for many battles and remained in French hands for most of its duration. 

Inside there is an impressive 17th century staircase and some nasty looking weapons.

 This multi-barreled cannon was designed by Leonardo de Vinci no less. 

The view from the top is amazing and you can see several chateaux, castles and the Dordogne meandering through the valley beyond.

Exiting this impregnable fortress by the drawbridge we browsed the touristy shops before heading to Sarlat market. 

If you are looking for some White to add to your wardrobe - this seems to be the place to go!

Sarlat is full of beautiful streets dating back to medieval times. The food market was only small on this particular day but they had the essentials...like French croissants for sale...and the most sumptuous plump and juicy dried fruit I've seen in a long time. 

The Dordogne region is renowned for their nuts (!) 

They are showcased here having been used in a variety of different ways from delicious caramalised nut tarts, nut oil and nut gateaux.There is even nutty beer!

Look at these tempting blocks of Nougat. Have you ever seen any so large?!

and the obligatory garlic....

Finally, wandering around the streets I came across a shop that sold witches, yep...and I have to add it didn't actually look unusual within this  medieval town at all! 

There was even the opportunity to take a photo with a life sized one, although oddly my family didn't seem too keen with that idea...(!)

I did manage to snap a couple of miniature ones cackling away. 

Sarlat is indeed a magical place and I'm sure you will find it utterly spellbinding too.