Things to Do in Duras, Monsegur & South West France
Exploring Monsegur, Duras & Eymet
Monsegur and Duras are just 9km apart; distances quoted below are approximate and are from Monsegur (33580 Gironde).
The countryside around Monsegur, Duras and Eymet is known for its vineyards, gastronomy, historic bastide towns and traditional markets.
Monsegur and Duras are centred around attractive market squares, with weekly markets, shops, cafés, bars, restaurants and boulangeries.
We love the volunteer-run Cinema Eden in Monsegur, which shows selected international films in their original language (VO), usually with French subtitles.
The towns host festivals and events throughout the year. One of the highlights is Monsegur’s 24 Heures du Swing, held during the summer.
Markets in Monsegur, Duras & Nearby
Visiting a local market is one of the pleasures of staying in this part of France. You’ll find fresh fruit and vegetables, cheeses, meat, fish, bread and local produce, with the number of stalls varying throughout the year.
- Monsegur: Friday morning
- Duras: Monday morning
- Sainte-Foy-la-Grande: Saturday morning
- Issigeac: Sunday morning
- Eymet: Thursday morning
During the summer, evening food markets and events are also held in several local towns and villages. Monsegur traditionally holds its summer night market on Wednesday evenings.
Dates and arrangements can vary, so we recommend checking locally during your stay.
Things to Do & Family Days Out
Château de Duras
The impressive Château de Duras, approximately 9km from Monsegur, is one of the area’s best-known landmarks.
Explore around 30 rooms, discover the history of the Dukes of Duras and enjoy far-reaching views across the surrounding countryside. The château also hosts exhibitions, guided visits and seasonal events.
Blasimon Lake & Beach
The Domaine Départemental de Blasimon, approximately 21km away, has a freshwater lake with a sandy beach and is particularly popular with families during the summer.
There are picnic areas, walking trails and recreational facilities, with supervised swimming available during the summer season.
Dune du Pilat
For a longer day trip, visit the Dune du Pilat on the Atlantic coast. Europe’s spectacular giant sand dune offers wonderful views across the ocean and surrounding forest.
Maison Guinguet
Chocolate counts as an activity as far as we’re concerned! Maison Guinguet, near Duras, is a lovely place to discover locally made chocolates, confectionery and other treats.
Jardin de Boissonna
Jardin de Boissonna is a delightful collection of small gardens, each with its own character, and a lovely place to stop for tea and cake.
Adventure & Climbing Park
Des Chênes Toi Aventure, near Duras, offers treetop adventure courses and outdoor activities.
Boat Trips in Bergerac
Discover Bergerac and the Dordogne River from the water aboard a traditional gabarre with Les Gabarres de Bergerac.
Canoeing & Kayaking
The rivers and waterways around the area provide opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. The Dropt offers a peaceful way to explore the local countryside, while the Dordogne provides a choice of longer river routes.
Canoeing is available around Allemans-du-Dropt and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande. Availability and river conditions can vary, so check with local providers before travelling.
Golf
Golfers can visit Château des Vigiers, approximately 28km away, with golf courses set amongst vineyards, woodland and countryside.
Wildlife & Animal Parks
There are several family attractions within driving distance, including:
- Parc du Griffon: A family attraction with animals and activities
- Zoo de Bordeaux Pessac: Near Bordeaux
- Aquarium du Périgord Noir: A larger day trip into the Dordogne
We recommend checking current opening dates and admission information before travelling.
Cycling
The quiet country lanes around Monsegur, Duras and Eymet are excellent for exploring by bike, although the rolling countryside can be surprisingly hilly.
See our Cycling & Bike Hire Guide for local cycle hire and more information.
Private Catering & Wine Experiences
From private catering at your holiday home to vineyard visits and wine experiences, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the food and wine of the region.
See our Private Catering & Wine Experiences Guide.
Supermarkets & Everyday Shopping
There are supermarkets in both Monsegur and Duras for everyday shopping. Larger supermarkets and hypermarkets can be found in towns including Marmande and Sainte-Foy-la-Grande.
You’ll also find boulangeries, butchers and other independent shops in the local towns and villages.
Tourist Information
The local tourist offices are useful for current information about markets, festivals, events, walking routes and attractions.
Entre-deux-Mers Tourisme – Monsegur and surrounding area →
More South West France Travel Guides
Return to our South West France Travel & Area Guide for more local information, including car hire, cycling, pet travel, private catering and wine experiences.
Please note: Opening times, market dates, seasonal activities and local services can change. We recommend checking current information with the attraction, business or tourist office before travelling.