Monpazier is just over 4 kilometres from Le Mas. It is convenient for basic provisions and has several small supermarkets, three bakers, several butchers, a petrol station, bank and post office, and a large number of interesting curio shops. Look out for antique fairs and other events held in the square during the summer.

The Monpazier area has its own web site at www.pays-des-bastides.com. There’s a useful regional site in English at www.pays-de-bergerac.com.

Monpazier, along with Domme and Eymet, is one of the best preserved bastides in the area.

In our view, it is the prettiest of them all.  It was founded in 1284 by Edward I, King of England and the Duke of Aquitaine and is laid out to a strict geometric plan.

The square has been carefully maintained and hosts a weekly produce market on Thursday. The church is a regular venue throughout the summer season for touring musical events.

Just south of Monpazier, on the road to Villereal, is Chateau Biron.  Biron was the home of Pierre de Gontaut, Lord of Biron.  He was an ally of Edward 1, King of England and Duke of Aquitaine, the founder of Monpazier.

We strongly recommend you visit this beautiful chateau that sits in a stunning location. If you want to enter the chateau you may want to call in advance to check opening times, otherwise you can just turn up to wander around outside. There is a good cafe just outside the chateau’s high walls.