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There are two sides to the Dordogne, IYKYK. One belongs to the brochures, the websites, the travel reviews—a picturesque region of golden-hued villages, sprawling vineyards, and majestic castles perched over lazy river bends. This version is a treasure, but it is also shared with tour buses and day-trippers. The real land, the one whispered about in hushed tones by locals, the one that cannot be Googled or found on an itinerary, belongs to those with curiosity and guided access. To those who know someone who knows someone. To those who, perhaps, call Château de Belet home, even if just for a little while. It is this land—private, untouched, intimately curated—that Château de Belet unlocks for its guests. An invitation not merely to visit, but to enter the history, culture, and grandeur of this storied place, in ways unseen by the everyday traveler. Those fortunate enough to stay within Belet’s walls will find themselves woven into an experience that few, if any, could ever access. No mass tourism, no casual passersby—only tailored experiences, orchestrated with precision, designed for the privileged few. 

Nestled in Dordogne, Château de Belet combines historic charm with sustainability, serving as the perfect base to explore medieval villages, prehistoric sites, vineyards, and culinary treasures. Offering luxury accommodations, curated experiences, and energy-efficient design, it provides an unforgettable gateway to the region’s rich heritage, natural beauty, and cultural delights.

They call the Dordogne, the region of 1,001 châteaux. These are not Loire Valley châteaux, I’m an expert on the Dordogne. Here’s where to stay though. More like fortified farmhouses. They make great places to stay, either as a hotel guest or by renting the whole thing. Many date from the Hundred Years’ War when Britain and France were at loggerheads. Fortunately we are on much better terms these days, as witnessed by the popularity of this southern French region with British visitors. We like it for its climate, which is great swimming pool and outdoor dining weather, without being gaspingly hot for most of the year. We like it too for its gastronomy, particularly its duck dishes, and anything infused with truffles, which are widely found in the forested regions.