Saint-Geniès: The Ultimate Guide to Saint-Geniès
Saint-Geniès is a charming medieval village in the heart of the Périgord Noir, Dordogne, nestled between Sarlat and Montignac-Lascaux. Classified as a "Village of Character of Périgord," it features ochre-colored stone houses with traditional lauze (slate) roofs, narrow lanes, and a remarkable architectural ensemble of a 12th-century Romanesque church and castle.
Named after Saint Genès, a 3rd-century martyr, this authentic hamlet offers a warm, timeless atmosphere with its preserved heritage, vibrant Sunday market, and proximity to iconic sites like Lascaux caves. With around 900 residents, Saint-Geniès blends history, gastronomy, and scenic beauty, making it an ideal stop in the Dordogne Valley.
This ultimate guide covers the best things to see and do in Saint-Geniès, including its history, top highlights, walking routes, village dinners in summer, practical tips, and how to get there — everything you need for a memorable visit to this delightful Périgord gem.
History of Saint-Geniès
History of Saint-Geniès
The village's history dates back to medieval times, named after Saint Genès, a 3rd-century martyr from Arles. The Church of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, of Romanesque origin, was built in the 12th century and fortified during the Hundred Years' War with defensive features like the bell tower-keep.
The castle originated from two 12th-century knights' houses, joined in the 16th century with towers and Renaissance elements. An older keep from the first castle stands in ruins on a hillock. Saint-Geniès prospered as a rural commune, preserving its stone architecture and lauze roofs. Today, as a Village of Character since recent classification, it safeguards its Périgord heritage amid rolling countryside.
Highlights of Saint-Geniès
Saint-Geniès delights with its golden stone houses, lauze roofs, and central church-castle ensemble. The serene lanes and valley views create a picturesque, authentic Périgord setting.
Key highlights:
- Église Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption – 12th-century fortified Romanesque church
- Château de Saint-Geniès – Medieval castle with Renaissance additions
- Chapelle du Cheylard – With 15th-century mural paintings
- Ruins of the old keep & panoramic viewpoints
- Sunday market & truffle market (winter)
- Ochre stone houses & lauze roofs
- Nearby: Lascaux caves, Sarlat, Montignac
- Tranquil hamlets & countryside walks
Village Dinners in July and August
During July and August, Saint-Geniès hosts lively night markets (marchés nocturnes) on Wednesday evenings from 7pm to 11pm, where visitors can enjoy communal village dinners. These festive events feature local producers offering fresh products like foie gras, cheeses, meats, and wines, cooked on-site and served at long shared tables in front of the castle and church.
The atmosphere is convivial with music, dancing, and a family-friendly vibe, embodying Périgord hospitality. Other summer events may include gourmet meals at ferme auberges like Ferme Auberge des Genestes, serving farm-fresh dishes. Check the tourist office for exact dates, as they vary yearly but typically run throughout the high season.
Tips: Arrive early for seating; bring cash. Combine with a village stroll for a perfect evening. Reservations recommended for ferme auberge dinners.
Walking Tour – Things to See and Do in Saint-Geniès
A visit to Saint-Geniès typically takes 1–3 hours (longer with market or walks). Park in free lots near the center; streets are gently sloping with some cobblestones.
1. Village Entrance & Lanes – Start from parking. Wander narrow streets admiring ochre houses and lauze roofs.
2. Church & Castle – Explore the Romanesque church (free entry) and admire the adjacent castle exterior (private but photogenic).
3. Old Keep Ruins – Short walk to the hillock for keep remnants and valley views.
4. Chapelle du Cheylard – Visit the chapel (2km from center) for mural paintings (check opening times).
5. Sunday Market – If visiting Sunday, browse local products in the main square.
6. Relaxation – Enjoy a café terrace or picnic with countryside vistas.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes. Visit early for quiet exploration. Combine with Lascaux (~15 min drive) or Sarlat. Check tourist office for guided tours.
Getting to Saint-Geniès
Saint-Geniès is rural in the Dordogne; best by car as public transport is limited.
By air: Nearest airport is Brive Vallée de la Dordogne (BVE, ~30-40 min drive) with seasonal flights. Bergerac (EGC, ~1 h) or Bordeaux (BOD, ~2 h) for more options. Rent a car; taxis limited.
By train: Nearest stations are Sarlat (~15-20 min drive) or Souillac (~20 min), with connections from Paris or Bordeaux. Taxi or rental car needed.
By car: Via Dordogne roads from Sarlat (~15 min), Montignac (~15 min), or Brive (~40 min). Free parking in village. Scenic drives through Périgord Noir.
Tips: Car essential for flexibility. Book summer rentals ahead.
Fun Facts about Saint-Geniès
Saint-Geniès holds charming secrets in its stones. Here are some interesting facts:
- Named after Saint Genès, a 3rd-century martyr whose relics were venerated here.
- The "Tree of Liberty" in the square was planted on May 8, 1945, to celebrate the end of WWII.
- Features one of the most beautiful lauze-roofed ensembles in Dordogne, with church and castle side-by-side.
- Hosts a truffle market from December to February, highlighting Périgord's black gold.
- Its golden stone houses glow at sunset, creating magical views over the valleys.