Already considered one of the most beautiful caves in
France, the Grotte de
Maxange in Le-Buissonde-
Cadouin has plans to
expand. Last December,
hundreds of tons of
sediment were stripped
away to reveal a new 50-
metre segment of the
cave.
The cave, first
discovered in 2000,
boasts spectacular
examples of stalactites,
stalagmites and
snowflake-like crystal
formations. The new
section will include much
of the same calcite crystallizations plus other wonders,
kept secret by the cave staff.
The section should be available for public viewing in
the coming months, or early 2009 at the latest.
The Périgord went on show in Paris at the end of May
for the Dordogne conseil général’s ‘Le Périgord à
Montmartre’. For three days, Montmartre’s la rue Azaïs
was the cat walk invaded by smells and savours of
truffles, foie gras, wine, walnuts and strawberries.
Showcasing its prehistory, caves, castles and Cro
Magnon, the Périgord touted its well-tried brand image
as a quality rural tourist destination. This is the second
time the conseil général has organised the event.
Train travellers heading to Paris can at last cross the
Dordogne easily – transport strikes permitting, of
course. Following the fire at the Coutras train station on
May 13, the SNCF announced on May 20 that train
services would resume almost to normal from Périgueux
to Bordeaux and subsequently, Bordeaux to Paris.
Travellers can now stop in Coutras but will have to
change trains for Bordeaux. The news is good, following
the headaches and confusion among TER riders
immediately following the incident.
The famous tidal bore on the Dordogne river has been
the subject of dispute in recent weeks regarding a law
placed on athletes and water sports enthusiasts
frequenting the waves.
Until October 31, while the tidal bore phenomenon is
at its peak, jet skiers, motor boats and surfers will be
restricted if not forbidden to ride the waves on certain
stretches of river.
Over the past few weeks, Périgourdins have seen their
cathedral’s bell-tower emerge after more than 18
months in hiding behind scaffolding. The tower has taken
on a different hue after a complete clean-up and
restoration. As a result, the lightning conductor
sprouting from the angel’s head seems more noticeable.
Break out your swimsuits, Périgourdins, there’s a new
pool in town. The AquaCAP in Champcevinel opened
for business on May 15, and plans to welcome water
lovers aged one to 100.
The €10 million aquatic centre features an interior
area covering 3,700m2 and includes a competitive sixlane,
25-metre pool, two recreational pools, a water
slide, sauna, jacuzzi and hammam. Outside, a pool, beach
volleyball area and an outdoor field sit within the
2200m2 space. Pools are equipped to accommodate
swimmers in training as well as those looking for more
casual water sports such as aqua jogging or water polo,
and the centre welcomes school groups. The AquaCAP
can hold 750 people in winter and 1,150 in summer, with
the exterior portion.
Organisers hope the centre will attract not only those
looking to have fun, but also people seeking more
intense fitness. The centre was built in response to the
demand from schools, athletes and social organisations
who felt that the existing pool was not sufficient.
La Communauté d’Agglomération Périgourdine
(CAP) feels that the AquaCAP will help connect residents
as well as attract tourists from around the Dordogne.
Martine Chauvineau, communication coordinator for
CAP, has one wish for visitors: “that people have the
irresistible desire to return!”
Further to recent articles in French News about women's pensions, the UK Department of Work and Pensions has issued a press release explaining that "women pensioners could boost their state pension or even be in line for a windfall payment under special terms.
Explore France 
