Gîtes in Eymet

Three iconic sites to discover in Eymet

Eymet is home to living traces of medieval Périgord. From the historic square at the heart of the bastide, to the castle that has overlooked these lands for centuries, and the valley that frames the village, you’ll explore the successive layers of a town deeply rooted in its past. These three sites embody the authentic charm of south-western France.

1. Place Gambetta

Place Gambetta exudes the atmosphere of the Périgord’s bastides. Its medieval arcades frame a space that locals and visitors have been frequenting since the Middle Ages. On Friday mornings, the weekly market brings the square to life, transforming the arcades into a covered market where local producers and shoppers mingle. You can stroll there in the shade of the stone vaults, rediscovering the thoughtful urban planning of the bastides founded in the 13th century. It is a place where time still moves to the rhythms of the seasons.

2. Château d’Eymet

The Château d’Eymet has watched over the bastide since the 13th century. Its restored keep, a remnant of medieval power, dominates the surrounding landscape. The remaining fortifications serve as a reminder of the strategic role this site played in the regional conflicts of yesteryear. Inside, a museum traces the local history: here you can discover how Eymet was built, transformed and enriched over the centuries. This historical journey offers a deeper understanding of the town’s character and the architectural choices that have shaped its present-day appearance.

3. The Dropt Valley

The Dropt river winds its way through the landscape of Eymet, bordering the town like a green ribbon. Its banks are perfect for a stroll, offering peaceful paths through the rolling, wooded countryside typical of the southern Périgord. Those who enjoy fishing will find secluded spots here; others prefer to follow the footpaths, breathing in the fresh air and observing the local vegetation. This valley provides a breath of fresh air that complements the experience of the medieval market town.

Staying in a holiday cottage in Eymet provides the ideal base from which to explore the three distinct facets of this bastide: the lively, bustling shopping streets; the tangible history of the castle; and the serene, verdant valley.

The ideal time of year to rent a gîte in Eymet

Each season reveals a different side to Eymet and the surrounding Périgord countryside. The best time to stay in a holiday cottage depends on what you’re looking for: bucolic tranquillity or lively village life, walks in the great outdoors or exploring the local heritage.

Spring. Between April and May, the Dordogne gently comes to life. Fruit trees blossom in the orchards surrounding Eymet, whilst temperatures remain pleasant for exploring the country lanes on foot or by bike. Holiday cottages offer a peaceful setting during this transitional period, ideal for travellers looking to escape the summer crowds. The village fairs and markets come back to life, creating a friendly atmosphere without the tourist overcrowding.

Summer. June to September is the peak season: the days stretch on, the terraces fill up, and cultural events abound. A stay in a gîte allows you to make the most of this energy whilst still having a peaceful base from which to rest. Summers in the Périgord are warm and sunny, perfect for family outings and swimming at nearby bathing spots.

Autumn. From September to November, the landscapes take on a new colour: the surrounding vineyards are ablaze with golden hues, whilst the harvest transforms the fields. The weather turns cool without becoming harsh. It is a popular season with visitors who enjoy forest walks and the local cuisine. The gîtes remain cosy, with the first fires lit in the chimneys in the evening.

Winter. From December to March, Eymet gently slips into a winter’s slumber. Temperatures are moderate for the region, rarely freezing. Rain is more frequent, but it doesn’t prevent outings or visits to the village and the surrounding châteaux. Winter is ideal for those seeking a break away from the hustle and bustle, with cosy holiday cottages where you can relax between reading and culinary discoveries.

A holiday cottage in Eymet remains a flexible option: each season offers its own charm, and self-catering accommodation allows you to adapt your pace to the weather and your mood, without the constraints of a hotel schedule.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Eymet

Eymet offers a range of activities combining history, nature and local life. From your holiday cottage, you can enjoy authentic experiences that reveal the character of this small Périgord bastide. These three unmissable activities form the backbone of a rich and varied stay.

1. Explore the medieval bastide of Eymet on foot

The bastide of Eymet unfolds like an open book as you walk through it. Its narrow streets, arcades and central square preserve the legacy of centuries past. Here you’ll discover the fortified church, houses with historic façades and architectural details that tell the story of the local Middle Ages. This walk suits all paces: an hour is enough for those in a hurry, half a day for the curious who stop at every street corner.

Address: Place Gambetta, 24500 Eymet.

2. Fishing and a stroll along the banks of the Dropt

The Dropt is the perfect spot for relaxation and nature watching. Its banks welcome anglers and walkers seeking peace and quiet. The clear water, the trees lining its banks and the birdsong create an atmosphere perfect for relaxation. Whether you come with a fishing rod or simply to walk along the bank, the River Dropt soothes and rejuvenates. Locals enjoy this spot all year round.

Address: Banks of the Dropt, 24500 Eymet.

3. Strolling through the weekly Thursday morning market

On Thursday mornings, Place Gambetta comes to life. Local producers, bakers, cheesemongers and market gardeners lay out their wares. It’s the perfect time to buy seasonal fruit and vegetables, Périgord cheeses, fresh bread or regional specialities. The market is also a great place to get a feel for life in Eymet: you’ll meet the locals, soak up the friendly atmosphere and get a real sense of the place.

Address: Place Gambetta, 24500 Eymet.

Our travellers’ favourite facilities when booking a holiday cottage in Eymet

A successful holiday in a gîte depends as much on the comfort of the accommodation as on its location. When choosing a holiday rental in Eymet, the facilities become invaluable assets for making the most of your free time, whether with family or friends. Here’s what makes the difference for our guests, season after season.

• Fully equipped kitchen: cooking your own meals allows you to sample local produce and tailor menus to everyone’s tastes, especially when travelling with children.
• Air conditioning or ventilation: in summer, keeping the main rooms cool makes for more restful nights and more pleasant days, particularly in the Périgord.
• Washing machine: essential for stays of more than a week, this facility makes it easier to manage dirty laundry without overpacking.
• Wi-Fi: even on holiday, staying connected gives parents peace of mind and allows you to share your discoveries in real time with loved ones.
• Terrace or garden: a private outdoor space is perfect for extending your evenings, reading in peace or watching the children play safely.
• Private car park: crucial in Eymet; not having to hunt for a space reduces stress and ensures your car’s safety.
• Efficient heating: out of season, a good heating system transforms an autumnal or winter holiday home into a cosy and welcoming retreat.
• Television: a welcome distraction on a cloudy day or for unwinding in the evening after a day of sightseeing.
• Modern oven and hob: cooking becomes a pleasure when the appliances are reliable and well-maintained.
• High-quality bedding: comfortable mattresses and fresh sheets guarantee a good night’s sleep, an essential part of a successful stay.

Choosing holiday accommodation suited to the number of people, the length of your stay and your budget ensures that every day goes smoothly, without any unpleasant surprises. In Eymet, holiday cottages offer different levels of facilities to suit all styles of holiday.

What is the average price of a holiday cottage in Eymet?

Prices for holiday cottages in Eymet vary depending on the layout and level of comfort. For a small cottage accommodating two to four people, you can generally expect to pay between 50 and 90 euros per night. A family holiday cottage, designed for five to eight guests, tends to cost between 80 and 150 euros per night. Larger holiday cottages or those offering high-end facilities can cost between 150 and 250 euros per night.

Several factors influence these rates. Location plays a part: a gîte in the heart of the village or in the immediate vicinity of shops is generally more expensive than a secluded rental in the countryside. The length of stay also makes a difference: owners often offer weekly discounts, sometimes of up to 15 or 20 per cent depending on the time of year. Facilities (swimming pool, enclosed garden, fully fitted kitchen, air conditioning) also increase the final price.

Seasonal factors have a significant impact on prices. Spring and autumn see mid-range rates, whilst summer and school holidays remain more expensive. Winter, except around Christmas and New Year, offers the best prices. To budget your stay effectively, read reviews from previous guests and compare several offers: this is the best way to assess value for money. Booking in advance also allows you to negotiate or access more favourable rates.