Issigeac, a beautiful medieval village in the Dordogne

photo:Issigeac Office de TourismeThe small village of Issigeac, which is on the border between the Dordogne and the Lot-et-Garonne departments in France, is truly a delight to visit. Built on the site of a magnificent Roman villa, later replaced by a Merovingian settlement and a thriving monastery in 700AD, Issigeac is rich in French history. Its current buildings date back to medieval times with later stone houses from the 16th and 17th centuries flanking earlier timbered buildings, common in Issigeac, but rare elsewhere - even in this historically bountiful part of France.

Lovely property in south west France

The area is extremely attractive to people looking for a French investment property to use as a second home, or for weekend breaks and holidays, or as a property to let out to generate income during the summer. Property in south west France is rising in value all the time. Cheap French property can still be found, and while this is usually in need of substantial renovation, the effort and return can be well worth it, particularly when it’s in such a beautiful and historical location as Issigeac.

Estate Agents, France

Embarking on a search for property for sale in France is exciting, but it can be difficult to know where to start. When it comes to enquiring at estate agents, France offers a range of local agents, including Premier French Property, and many online sites that show the range of property available in different regions.

Houses in France that offer the best of both worlds

Houses in France vary enormously in age and style: in Issigeac, the majority are traditional, rural properties that are often very old. If you want more modern property, France is putting together some very good new developments although they tend to be mainly in the larger towns and cities. In this area you can find new builds and more recent properties in larger towns, such as Bergerac, just ten minutes away, located very close to areas bursting with medieval charm. Why not have both modern convenience and a charming setting?

French investment property in a beautiful rural location

However, if you’re happy to consider property for sale in France in more rural locations, Issigeac is just ideal. This is a walled town with narrow, winding roads and a strong medieval feel, similar to the many bastide towns that can be found in this part of France. The church in Issigeac is dedicated to St Félicien. This is an impressive and elegant palace, built in the 1600s with vast buttresses, an octagonal bell tower, and an imposing spire. With only 600 or so inhabitants, Issigeac is not a large village, but it is lively, with many restaurants, cafes, and bars to visit on leisurely walks through its medieval streets. There is a market every Sunday morning and regular events throughout the summer.