Beynac & Castelnaud

Today it was castles along the Dordogne River.  Actually, these are fortifications built by the French and the English in the 11th and 12th centuries on either side of the river, then passed back and forth numerous times during the 100 Years War.

Beynac

 

Very cool.  Lots of pics, which include the surrounding village, one of Mom's new friends, etc.  Note that you can see Castelnaud (other side of the river) from the ramparts.



(Long zoom to Castelnaud)

Then lunch

 

Yes, that's a whole bottle of wine.  A beautiful restaurant, Belle Etoile, which had been recommended by our host.  Expensive?  Yes.  Worth it?  Absolutely.  Overlooking the river, great service, excellent meal.  Foie gras apps, then rack of lamb for me and duck breast for Mom, and a gorgeous brie for dessert.  Check this out:

 

 

Amazingly, we were still awake and continued on to

Castelnaud

 

Another amazing castle/fort, built on and into the rock cliffs, surrounded by a picturesque village.  Got caught in the rain at the end and got soaked.  Oh, well...   More pics.