Wander in France

We’d heard about it for years. We’d seen the photos and heard the stories. People kept saying, “You’ve got to go to Sarlat,” and we’d nod and say, “Oh for sure we will, some day.” Well, that day finally came, and wow.

Wandering Through Centuries

We arrived late morning, the buildings glowed in the sun and the streets twist and turn, encouraging you to lose yourself in it’s wonderfully preserved ambience. It’s wild  how untouched it all is. While other towns got knocked around by wars or modern development, Sarlat somehow avoided it all. During the Hundred Years’ War, it bounced between English and French control, but its walls held strong. Then in World War II, it ended up in the part of France that wasn’t occupied, so it avoided the worst of the damage. Because of all that, it still looks like it did hundreds of years ago.

Market Days: A Feast for the Senses

If you really want to see Sarlat at its most vibrant, make sure to visit on market days, which are held Wednesdays and Saturdays. We visited on a Wednesday and the town transforms into a sensory paradise. Stalls overflow with local treasures, from walnut-infused treats and truffle oil, to beautifully handwoven baskets. It’s a true celebration of Périgord’s flavors, colors, and sounds.

One of the market’s standout features is the magnificent wooden door of the Church of Sainte-Marie. Step through this striking entrance, and you’ll find a bustling market housed within the historic walls of the church. Redesigned by the renowned architect Jean Nouvel, this unique space seamlessly combines history and modernity, providing the perfect setting for vendors to showcase everything from artisanal crafts to the freshest local produce.

A Cinematic Backdrop

Sarlat’s charm hasn’t escaped the eyes of filmmakers either. If the town feels oddly familiar, it’s probably because its perfectly preserved medieval streets have made it a favorite backdrop for countless films, from sweeping period dramas to beloved French classics. Its timeless beauty is irresistible for historical productions.

One of the most famous examples is Ridley Scott’s The Duellists (1977), where Sarlat’s enchanting streets brought Napoleonic-era France to life. Then there’s Ever After (1998), starring Drew Barrymore, which made the most of the town’s fairy-tale aesthetic. French cinema has also found inspiration here, with movies like Le Pacte des Loups (Brotherhood of the Wolf, 2001) making full use of its atmospheric alleys. More recently, Ridley Scott returned for The Last Duel (2021), featuring Matt Damon and Adam Driver, solidifying Sarlat’s reputation as a go-to destination for period films.
But the town’s connection to cinema doesn’t end there. Every year, it hosts the Festival du Film de Sarlat, a celebration of French and international cinema that attracts film enthusiasts and showcases Sarlat’s enduring appeal.

Beyond the Obvious

Sarlat rewards the curious. Venture beyond the bustling main squares, and you’ll uncover treasures that make this town unforgettable. Start with a ride up the glass elevator inside the historic 12th-century Church of Sainte-Marie, reimagined by architect Jean Nouvel. The views from the top are nothing short of spectacular, with medieval rooftops stretching out below, framed by a maze of winding streets, with the lush Dordogne countryside rolling into the horizon.
You can also stop in at the Manoir de Gisson, where the walls tell stories of aristocratic life from centuries ago. It’s like walking through a slice of history, complete with fascinating artifacts and an air of elegance.
And for something a little more mysterious, seek out the Lanterne des Morts (Lantern of the Dead). This intriguing tower has origins that are still debated, adding an element of intrigue to Sarlat’s rich tapestry of history.

Step away from the crowds, wander an alley like this one, and you’re bound to find something unexpected. In the Dordogne, even a market morning can feel a bit like time-travel.

Final Thoughts

We knew Sarlat would be beautiful, but honestly, it still caught us off guard. There are so many incredible villages tucked into southwest France that it’s easy to think you’ve seen it all. But Sarlat stands out. It’s not just another pretty town. It’s a place you want to return to, linger in, and get to know slowly. One visit isn’t enough.

If Sarlat sparked your curiosity, explore more timeless villages in the Dordogne.