We are planning a trip in November (never been) and are considering either the Dordogne or the Provence area. Any feedback on which area may be best for that time of year would be appreciated. We love quaint towns/villages, great wines and always look forward to local cuisine. Food markets are always on our list as well. We plan a gite stay and do day trips from a central location. Will we have a selection of restaurants and attractions such as wine tours to go to during the November season or are some closed?
Posted by
Fox Island, USA
88 posts
We were in the Dordogne last year in mid October and were very lucky with sunny days but quite cool nights. But for November, I think I would choose Provence because it would probably be warmer with better weather than the Dordogne would be then.
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
I would consider very carefully the question of what sorts of things you want to do and whether those activities are available. Both regions will be experiencing their off-season, which typically means shorter hours at sights, perhaps no English-language tours available, fewer festivals and markets, and of course shorter daylight hours. The Dordogne is more rural and might be the place where things slow down the most, but you should really resolve this by investigating (online and by telephone) the things that you are going to see and experience.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, USA
1068 posts
If you are going late in November, you might check out the local "fetes" in towns you'd like to visit. Starting mid-to-late November, "les fetes d'hiver" are celebrations of Noel - light, song, food, and drink - and range from the over-the-top extravaganza in Paris that launches November 19th-ish and runs until after the New Year, to local festivities that can be equally delightful, if more low-key. In Provence, you'll find special Noel markets, featuring gifts and food and fun. But do check the dates! And ignore, of course, if you are going earlier in November. :o)
Posted by
OP
Chicago
2 posts
From what I understand, Provence pretty much shuts down in November. We have booked Paris and Dordogne and look forward to less crowds even if a bit cooler. I'll be sure to check out the fetes. Thanks for the tip. If any of you have had a good experience with villas for rental in the Dordogne region, perhaps by Sarlat, please send recommendations. Seven of us will be traveling and villages rather than bigger towns are what we lean to.
Posted by
Bellingham, WA
13 posts
Hello, Spent November and December in Provence and it is very pleasant as a lot of local events take place, but there is very few tourists! Check more specifically Provence Coast (warmer weather)
www.provence-coast-travel.com