Best attractions and places to see around Nontron are found in this historic town nestled in the northern Dordogne region of southwest France. Situated on high ground, Nontron offers views over the Bandiat valley and the surrounding countryside. The area is known for its ancient knife-making tradition and its location within the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. Visitors can explore a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Javerlhac Castle was rebuilt around 1498 by Dauphin Pastoureau, a master blacksmith in Nontron. It is typical of Périgord manor houses, with a rectangular dwelling, a large round tower with machicolations decorated with trefoils, and a polygonal tower housing a spiral staircase. The castle retains defensive features such as gun ports, despite modernization in the early 19th century. It burned down in 1369 during the Hundred Years' War and has undergone several reconstructions. Privately owned, its facades and roofs have been listed as historic monuments since 1974.
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Beautiful walk around the lake
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A beautiful, newly paved cycle path, the Flow Velo, between Nontron and St. Pardoux. The Flow Velo runs along an old railway line much further than to Nontron or St. Pardoux, but this section is the best for cycling. The only annoying thing is the barriers at every crossing, no matter how small, such as a dirt road.
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Under the rock, you can also try to insert your mother-in-law, guaranteed effect 👍🦆👙🦐🎸🥂
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Why Visit Thiviers? For its gastronomy: Thiviers is a paradise for gourmets. With its fat markets, truffles and local products, the city offers an authentic and unique culinary experience. For its historical heritage: Between its Gothic church and its museums, Thiviers allows you to delve into the history of Périgord and discover the Périgord way of life. For the surrounding nature: Located in the Périgord Vert, the city is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside, whether through hikes or bike rides. Thiviers is an ideal destination for those looking to discover the gastronomic and natural heritage of Périgord, while enjoying the charm of an authentic and welcoming small town.
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Nature and hiking: Green environment: Surrounded by hills and forests, Thiviers is the ideal starting point for hikes in the Périgord Vert. Nature lovers can take advantage of the marked trails to discover the local flora and fauna. The Thiviers-Saint-Pardoux greenway: This old railway line transformed into a cycle path allows you to explore the surrounding countryside in complete tranquility, whether on foot or by bike. Market and local traditions: Weekly market: The Thiviers market is a meeting place for locals and visitors. You can find local products, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and of course, Périgord specialties such as foie gras and duck confit. Festivals and festivals: Thiviers regularly organizes cultural and gastronomic events, such as the Foire du Gras, which celebrates local products, or even music and traditional arts festivals. Vaucocour Castle: 18th century building: Located not far from the city, this castle, surrounded by a magnificent park, is a beautiful example of 18th century architecture. It is possible to visit its gardens and learn more about local history.
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Thiviers, located in the Dordogne, is a charming little town in the Périgord Vert, renowned for its rich historical and gastronomic heritage. Nicknamed the "capital of foie gras and truffles", Thiviers is a destination of choice for lovers of good food and history buffs. Surrounded by green landscapes, this town offers a beautiful immersion in the culture and traditions of the Périgord. Points of Interest in Thiviers: Historical Heritage: Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church: This Gothic church, dating from the 13th century, is one of the most important monuments in Thiviers. It impresses with its sober and elegant architecture, with its square bell tower and colorful stained glass windows. Museum of earthenware and tableware: Located in a private mansion, this museum houses a beautiful collection of old earthenware and tableware objects, testifying to the importance of culinary traditions in Périgord. Local gastronomy: Capital of foie gras: Thiviers is world-renowned for its foie gras production. Every year, foie gras markets attract many visitors, and the city regularly organizes gastronomic events showcasing this emblematic product. Périgord truffles: In addition to foie gras, Thiviers is also famous for its truffles, these precious mushrooms that make the region famous. The truffle market in winter is an unmissable event for gourmets.
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The natural setting: Bordered by the Côle: Saint-Jean-de-Côle is surrounded by nature, with the small Côle river running through the village, offering bucolic and green landscapes. Hiking and walks: The surroundings of the village are full of trails for hiking enthusiasts. These paths allow you to explore the countryside of the Périgord Vert, its forests, and its meadows, while enjoying the calm and beauty of nature. Events and Crafts: Medieval festivals: The village regularly organizes events such as medieval festivals that recreate the atmosphere of the Middle Ages with costumes, shows and craft markets. Local crafts: Saint-Jean-de-Côle is also home to several local artisans and artists who offer their works and creations, whether pottery, textiles or gastronomic products. Why Visit Saint-Jean-de-Côle? For its medieval charm: Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Jean-de-Côle offers a unique setting with its historic buildings, cobbled streets and authentic atmosphere. For history: The Romanesque church, the Château de la Marthonie, and the bridge bear witness to several centuries of history, transporting visitors to another era. For the surrounding nature: In addition to its heritage, the village is an ideal starting point for exploring the countryside of the Périgord Vert, between walks and discoveries of the local fauna and flora. Saint-Jean-de-Côle is therefore an essential destination for those who wish to combine historical and natural heritage, while enjoying the calm and beauty of a Périgord village.
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Nontron itself is rich in history. You can visit the Château de Nontron, which now houses the Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art (PEMA), and the 16th-century Hôtel d'Albret with its distinctive spiral staircase. Exploring the medieval streets around Rue des Écoles and Rue Picaud will reveal half-timbered houses and remnants of old fortifications. The Notre-Dame-des-Ronces Church is also a notable religious edifice. Further afield, consider visiting Javerlhac Castle, known for its impressive exterior, or the beautifully restored Jumilhac Castle.
Nontron offers excellent views over the Bandiat valley and the surrounding Dordogne countryside from its elevated position. You can also enjoy a stroll through the Jardin des Arts, public gardens leading down to the Bandiat river. For a unique natural monument, visit The Rocking Stone, which can be made to wobble with rhythmic pushing. The town is also located within the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park, providing extensive natural landscapes to explore.
Yes, several attractions are great for families. Saint-Estèphe Pond Beach is a popular spot with a small sandy beach, perfect for swimming and relaxation, and it's also wheelchair accessible. The Rocking Stone is a fun natural monument where kids can try to make the rock move. The Jardin des Arts offers a pleasant outdoor space for a family stroll. Additionally, the nearby village of Saint-Jean-de-Côle is picturesque and enjoyable for all ages.
Nontron is famous for its ancient knife-making tradition. You can visit the Coutellerie Nontronnaise workshop and shop to see how these renowned knives are made. The Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art (PEMA), housed in the Château de Nontron, promotes local artists and craftspeople through exhibitions, courses, and workshops, offering a glimpse into contemporary art and crafts.
Absolutely. Nontron is an excellent base for hikers, especially within the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. You can find various trails, including easy hikes like the 'Saint-Estèphe Pond – The Rocking Stone loop' or the 'Saint-Jean-de-Côle – Castle loop'. For more challenging options, explore waterfall hikes such as the 'Saut du Chalard – Parking & Trailhead loop'. Discover more hiking routes in the area on the Easy hikes around Nontron and Waterfall hikes around Nontron guides.
Yes, Nontron is a 'stage town' on the Flow Vélo, a 400 km cycling route that connects Sarlat to the island of Aix, offering a safe way to enjoy the natural landscapes and historical heritage. There are also various cycling routes around Nontron, ranging from moderate to difficult, such as 'Around Nontron' or 'Javerlhac Castle – Le Moulin Martin loop'. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling around Nontron guide.
Saint-Jean-de-Côle is recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages. It boasts a picturesque setting with a medieval bridge, a castle, and a church, making it a delightful place to explore its historical architecture and charming atmosphere.
Yes, Saint-Estèphe Pond Beach is noted for its accessibility. The entire beach and walkways around the small lake are wheelchair accessible, and special beach wheelchairs are available, including one that can be ridden into the water via a special causeway.
Thiviers Old Town is a charming destination known for its rich historical and gastronomic heritage. It features half-timbered houses from the 16th century, the Gothic Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church, and a museum of earthenware and tableware. Thiviers is also famous as the 'capital of foie gras and truffles', with markets and gastronomic events showcasing these local delicacies.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The restoration work at Jumilhac Castle is often highlighted, as is the unique experience of making The Rocking Stone wobble. The peaceful atmosphere and amenities at Saint-Estèphe Pond Beach are also frequently praised, especially by families looking to relax after outdoor activities.
The Pôle Expérimental Métiers d'Art (PEMA), located in the Château de Nontron, is the primary hub for local crafts and art. It features excellent exhibitions of contemporary art and crafts by local artisans and includes a shop where visitors can purchase unique items. PEMA also organizes courses, internships, and workshops, showcasing a wide variety of specialties.
While not a hidden gem in the traditional sense, the Hôtel d'Albret on Rue Camille Chabaneau is a fine 16th-century Renaissance-style building that offers a glimpse into Nontron's architectural heritage beyond the main castle. Exploring the quieter medieval streets can also reveal charming, less-trafficked corners of the town. For a unique natural spot, The Rocking Stone is a local curiosity that provides a memorable experience.


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