On the Dordogne, Lamonzie-Saint-Martin brings together riverside scenery, historic churches, archaeological traces and wine. The Dordogne forms the northern boundary of the commune for about six kilometres. A riverside footpath, seasonal beach and market offerings, and visits by appointment each add a different dimension to planning your trip.
Riverside Path and River Landscape
The footpath, about seven kilometres long, follows the riverbank from the SNCF bridge at La Bourgatie to Saint-Martin. Conditions may change, so check them before setting out. Pebble beaches are accessible in summer. Check local conditions before visiting these too.
Below Saint-Sylvain church, on the banks of the Dordogne, is the restored Fontaine Saint-Sylvain. Its condition and access may change, so it is advisable to check both before visiting. A fish spawning area has also been restored near the church, offering another glimpse of the local river environment. The rural agricultural landscape is strongly shaped by fruit growing: Lamonzie-Saint-Martin has several hundred hectares of apple orchards, most of them covered with hail-protection nets.
Churches, History and Protected Heritage Site
The Domaine du château de Saint-Martin is listed as a heritage site. The site includes outbuildings and farm buildings, the park with its terraces and two bridges, ornamental structures, hydraulic installations and the access avenue. The halls at the eastern end are excluded. The precise boundaries are therefore as much a part of the site’s character as its various buildings and features.
Saint-Sylvain church was repaired or rebuilt in the 14th century after the religious buildings had fallen into disrepair. The parish of Saint-Sylvain is also associated with a nuns’ priory: Boson the Elder founded it in this parish towards the end of the 10th century. Saint-Roch church in Le Monteil is Gothic and has a bell tower topped with a pointed spire. It was built thanks to donations from the Baroness de Fontvielle; the parish was established by decree on 4 June 1853.
The Chapel of Saint-Martin on the banks of the Dordogne was once the parish seat in the commune. The Gallo-Roman past is also part of the area’s history: remains of a villa were uncovered in the 20th century, including baths, an aqueduct and part of a sarcophagus. These finds add an older historical layer to the medieval churches.
Wine and the Summer Market
The Château Haut Lamouthe winery produces wines under the Bergerac, Côtes de Bergerac and Monbazillac appellations and has a tasting cellar. Guided visits are available by appointment only. If you are planning a visit, arrange your appointment in advance and check the visiting arrangements again.
In summer, the Les Halles Gourmandes food market takes place every Wednesday evening from 7 to 11 p.m. in the town centre. There are various stalls, and no reservation is required. Check the specific dates for the year of your trip. The market and pebble beaches are seasonal offerings, while visits to the winery require an appointment.
Discover more destinations: Le Pizou, Jayac, Saint-Cyr-les-Champagnes, Saint-Jory-De-Chalais, Savignac-LĂ©drier, La Jemaye, Peyzac-Le-Moustier, Azerat
For the broader travel guide: Dordogne.
