old_world_rocks

I need to use up vacation days and middle of February is the one that aligns with wife's. Last time we were in Dordone was 5 years ago during the early fall, stayed in rented gites at La Roque Gageac and have been wanting to revisit since. This time, we plan on Sarlat as our base for 5 nights.

Questions:

1. Is middle of February dreary/rainy/very cold in Dordogne?

2. Are the major sights/caves/chateau/restaurants closed? We've done most of the sights, mostly caves and chateau, before and would likely want to revisit two or three for this trip.
A relaxed trip with focus on wine and food (markets and restaurants) is our primary agenda this time. Are restaurants open during February?

Bonus Question (bonus points for answering):

3. A quick check on available flights show Toulouse as our best bet for entry point with noontime arrival. Planning on picking up rental car at Toulouse Blagnac Airport and spending 2 nights at Cahors (we've not visited before) before heading on to Sarlat. Would you say that Cahors would be my best bet for a 2-nighter before making the trek to Sarlat? Please feel free to recommend any other town that you feel would great to do before Sarlat.

Thanks in advance.

owr

Michael

A good guide book should be able to give you the seasonal hours for the major sites.

chapla

Answer to #1 Yes,miserable,cold, damp weather-great for staying inside by the fire!
Enough said!

Carlux

I hate to say it, but Februrary is really not a good time to come here. The weather COULD be good, but unlikely. Mostly it will be damp and cool, and mostly the restaurants and various attractions will be closed. If there are specific things you want to see, you can check opening hours online, but in general, not much will be open.

So, if you just want to come somewhere and sit by the fire drinking red wine and eating chocolate, that would be fine, but even for those of us who love this area, not a great time to visit.

StCirq

Don't go in February.

old_world_rocks

Thanks for the "discouragement". Really, thanks. I'll plan this trip for somewhere else and "do da Dordogne" for milder times.