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Enjoy the hustle and bustle of Verteillac
Nestled in France’s picturesque Périgord vert region, Verteillac has lively shops and bars, a sprawling campsite and a swimming pool. Take time to explore the local library, or let the kids run wild in the playground.
History of Verteillac
Verteillac’s history isn’t well known. Buildings and other clues suggest it was built around the end of the 100 Years War, in the second half of the 15th century. The village was set up like a new town, like a patterned grid. But the church was written about as early as the 11th century. It looks like it was destroyed or abandoned during the war, then rebuilt in one go. Around the same time, Verteillac became a separate seigneury (a place with a noble ruler), and the seigneury was shared by two lineages (families) for about 200 years. This could explain the existence of two chateaus, the upper and the lower, but this remains to be verified. When I enquired about chateaus to local people, one is Château de la Meyfrenie, but they were unsure where the second was.
In the 1700s, the Labrousse family owned Verteillac, a region once divided into two parts. They were famous for their bravery and were even invited to the court. The Labrousse family united Verteillac and the Château du Parterre near Paris. They also bought the barony of La Tour Blanche. This reunited all the possessions of the La Tour family.
Thibaud de Labrousse bought the part of Verteillac owned by the Salagnac family in 1656. The other part was bought from the Foucault de Pontbriand family, likely through the marriage of his daughter Dauphine. In 1658, Thibaud’s cousin died owning the castle. However, it’s unknown how he got it or if it was part of the seigneury.
Things to do in Verteillac
Make a splash
Visit Verteillac’s outdoor swimming pool and enjoy a summer of fun! From June to the end of August, the pool provides a great way to cool off on hot days, with a large swimming lane, a smaller shallow pool and a paddling pool for toddlers. Take a break in the solarium to sunbathe and relax after a swim. Splash with family and friends or participate in aqua gym and swimming lessons! Special rates are available for single entry, visitors, groups, and 10-bath cards – children under 3 receive free admission.
Sports activities
There are plenty of places for hikers and cyclists to explore, as well as a football stadium, tennis courts, basketball court, playground, and petanque pitch.
Enjoy local produce at the markets
Explore the picturesque Des Courtines Square in the centre of Verteillac near the fountain on Saturday mornings to sample the best of the local producers! The small market has something for everyone with fresh produce, from organic vegetables, cheeses, and dairy products to honey, wine, smoked trout, and more. Once a month, you can use the sharpening service for knives and other gardening tools. Plus, don’t miss the night market on Thursday evenings during July and August in the main square. Make sure to take along your cutlery and plates. Enjoy decadent local delicacies and listen to live music for a truly unique French experience.
Explore the monthly brocante
Discover something new at the monthly Verteillac flea market! The Association of Merchants and Craftsmen hosts an exciting flea market throughout the village on the first Sunday of every month. You’ll find an eclectic mix of treasures, from professional antiques to amateur handmade items. Browse the large brocante all year long and enjoy a unique shopping experience.
In 2024 on the third Sunday of June, July, August and September, there is an art and craft market between 9 am and 2 pm in the centre of the village.
Explore Further Afield
Within easy reach of Verteillac are many beautiful villages and places with medieval history.
Brantome
Just a short drive away from Verteillac is the captivating town of Brantôme. Known as the “Venice du Périgord,” this enchanting destination is famous for its picturesque setting, with the Dronne River flowing through it. You can enjoy strolling along the riverbanks, exploring historic sites such as the Abbey of Brantôme, and indulging in delectable local cuisine at charming riverside restaurants.
Perigueux
Another must-visit place nearby is the impressive town of Périgueux. Steeped in history and boasting beautiful architecture, Périgueux offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Explore the old town, visit the majestic Cathédrale Saint-Front, and wander through the bustling markets to sample delicious local delicacies and artisanal products.
Grotte de Villars
For those seeking nature’s tranquillity, a visit to the stunning caves of Grotte de Villars is highly recommended. Situated just a short distance away, these captivating caves boast a breathtaking display of stalagmites and stalactites, with some dating back over 2 million years. Guided tours allow you to appreciate the cave’s unique formations and learn about its fascinating history.
Bergerac
A visit to Bergerac is a must for wine lovers. Famous for its vineyards and winemaking traditions, Bergerac offers wine enthusiasts the chance to sample various exquisite wines. Meander along the delightful streets, indulge in local cuisine and soak in the atmosphere at the picturesque Old Port.
Angouleme
Angouleme is known for its stunning architecture, which includes medieval buildings and a magnificent cathedral. The old town area is particularly enchanting, with narrow cobblestone streets and traditional French houses. Angouleme is also famous for its love of comics, hosting an annual International Comics Festival that attracts comic enthusiasts worldwide. With its beautiful scenery, vibrant arts scene, and street art, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Lac Jemaye
If you fancy visiting a lake beach, I would recommend Lac Jemaye. The Grand Étang de La Jemaye is a precious gem within the beautiful ancient forest of La Double. It consists of a large forest area and six interconnected ponds. It has been specifically designed for swimming and water sports and aims to balance the needs of visitors and the preservation of the natural environment and its inhabitants.
Give it a miss
The shops are closed on a Monday so it’s very quiet. However, this is very common on Mondays in smaller villages so check where you are planning on going before you do so.
