Sarlat-la-Caneda

[Have been without internet for a couple of days, so a bit of catching up to do...]

Heaps to see and do in this area, known as the Dordogne region.  We've picked out what we think we can fit in in our three nights here.

So, day one...  Off to the town of Sarlat, about 20 kms away.  Really cute, very old, but full of beautiful little shops.  They seem to put lots of effort into the presentation of their shops, especially the front windows. Makes window shopping a great option!

Had a good wander around in the rain, and decided to pop into an art gallery as our last stop.  We met an amazing artist who compiles spectacular works using collages of pictures from National Geographic magazines.  So intricate, and often his pictures make political statements.  His originals were selling for 3000 euros - clearly not in our range, but we did come away with a poster of one of his works.

From there we had quite a long drive to an underground cave experience - I think like Waitomo (where we have never been).  It was way, way down, accessed by steps plus two lift rides.  Then we climbed into boats and were floated through the most beautiful grotto.  Clear and still water, stalactites and stalagmites and amazing rock formations all beautifully lit - quite entrancing.  This was a real highlight for me.

Stopped back in Sarlat for yet another fine dining experience in front of a lovely open fire.  Seems you can't go wrong with restaurants here.