This part of France is steeped in history; the earliest known cave paintings in Europe were discovered at Lascaux and Ruffignac;  Many archaeological remains, including a monolithic church in Aubterre, can be found locally and typically perigordian architecture can be seen in many of the towns and villages.  There are roman churches in the area and these are all signposted from the major roads.  Ancient 'Bastide' or fortified towns, relics of the Hundred Years War when the English ruled this part of France, can be discovered throughout the region.

The market towns of Perigeux, Brantome & St Astier are all within a short drive of the house and there is a typically french street market nearly every day of the week in the locality.  The village of Saint Severin is 4 kms away and offers bakery, bank, supermarket, pharmacy, butcher and hotel/restaurant.  There are small restaurants in Lusignac, St Paul Lizonne, Pallaud and Verteillac and larger ones with more comprehensive menu's in Riberac.  An impressive supermarket can be found in Riberac  - the closest town to La Lande - and a big and busy market is held in the market square every Friday.

La Lande Village from the bottom road

The terrain is mostly rolling countryside with the river Dronne running through it towards Bordeaux.  The river valley is full of lush vegetation and supports good arable farming;  the fields of sunflowers are beautiful during the summer -  the french name is Tournesol - which is exactly what they do - turn with the sun; and there are also fields filled with maize, wheat and the occasional dairy/beef herd.  Vineyards provide good grapes for the white Bergerac wine, and not too far away can be found rich Bordeaux wines -  a little further west lies the Cognac area. 

A gastronomes delight with truffles, duck and fois gras, walnuts, wines and pastries to die for!

....and Figs!