Villamblard offers different ways to enjoy a stay: the Boucle des crêtes focuses on landscapes and activity, while its buildings and historical landmarks reveal different aspects of the town’s history. The Clovis Reymond Distillery is another attraction, with a history dating back to 1834 and seasonal tours. Plan your trip around a hike, architecture and history, or a look at the distillation process.

Hiking the Boucle des crêtes

The 9 km Boucle des crêtes starts in front of Villamblard’s town hall. It follows wide, easy-to-walk paths lined with chestnut and pine forests. Highlights include some lovely viewpoints and nature that is still protected. The route’s length gives the hike a clear framework; its paths and views define its scenic character.

Buildings and traces of history

The Croix de la Passion is a wrought-iron cross depicting the instruments of Christ’s Passion. It has stood above Villamblard’s market square since the beginning of the 19th century. Its religious imagery and public location make the cross a prominent historical landmark in the town.

Villamblard’s covered market hall was built in the 19th century to replace the former castle hall. Its cleverly arranged pillars give it a classical appearance despite its irregular floor plan. By contrast, the former Lavoir du Buguet, recently restored, is notable for its original function as a washhouse.

In the centre of Villamblard stands the Château de Barrière, a medieval fortress. It shares its name with the Château de Barrière in Périgueux. The château tells its own story and displays extensive collections dedicated to Périgord’s heritage, including fossils, prehistoric artefacts and cast-iron objects. The collection’s varied items offer different ways to explore the region’s natural and cultural history.

Villamblard’s former importance can also be placed in a historical context: until the end of the 18th century, the town was an important stopping point halfway between Bergerac and Périgueux, as well as a stage on the Way of St James. This historical role is part of the town’s history and does not indicate any current route signage.

In front of Villamblard’s cultural centre are historical artefacts presented under the name “Les chaudières.” They evoke the four forges of the Crempse Valley, which made cannons for the Royal Navy and boiler tanks for sugar factories in the Antilles. The products mentioned thus ranged from military use to sugar production.

Clovis Reymond Distillery

The Clovis Reymond Distillery in Villamblard was founded in 1834. Fruit is distilled there in old copper stills and made into spirits, liqueurs, aperitifs and syrups. A visit therefore offers a look not only at the distillery’s history, but also at the production steps and products described here.

In July and August, the distillery offers a free guided tour with tasting from Monday to Friday, preferably at 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Visits are available year-round by appointment. If you plan to join a seasonal tour, confirm the dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Eymet, Saint-Aulaye, Saint-Barthélemy-de-Bussière, Saint-Léon-Sur-L'isle, Biras, Bassillac, Gavaudun, Saint-Pierre-De-Chignac

For the broader travel overview: Dordogne.