FROM SOURCE TO SEA is the result of Valerie's decision to drive, with a friend, the length of the Dordogne River in fits and starts, taking photos and notes with the idea of writing a book. This fascinating journey covers most aspects of the river's fascinating history, from Early Man to the present day and touches on legends, geology, towns, villages, farming, nature, religious establishments, castles and what is on, in and by the river. Illustrations, mostly her own pen and ink drawings, and sketch maps enliven the text, which never dwells too long on any one topic, but skips briskly to the next, occasionally quoting some experiences of others who have written about the Dordogne's numerous char

In one of the most beautiful river valleys in Europe, in the region known as Périgord in southwest France, castles crown the hills, and the surrounding villages seem carved all of a piece out of the local stone. In 1985, in the shadow of one of these medieval castles, Betsy Draine and Michael Hinden fell in love with a small stone house that became their summer home. Like any romance, this one has had its ups and downs, and Betsy and Michael chart its course in this delightful memoir. They offer an intimate glimpse of a region little known to Americans—the Dordogne valley, its castles and prehistoric art, its walking trails and earthy cuisine—and describe the charms and mishaps of setting up housekeeping thousands of miles from home. Along with the region’s terrain and culture, A Castle in the Backyard introduces us to the people of Périgord—the castle’s proprietor, the village children, the gossipy real-estate agent, the rascally mason, and the ninety-year-old widow with a tale of heartbreak. A celebration of a place and its people, the book also reflects on the future of historic Périgord as tourism and development pose a challenge to its graceful way of life.

A guidebook to 35 day walks in France’s Dordogne region. Exploring the beautiful scenery of this historic area, the walks are suitable for beginner and experienced walkers alike. Walks range from 6 to 19km (4–12 miles) and can be enjoyed in 2–6 hours. Each route is easily accessible from either Bergerac, Lalinde, Sarlat or Souillac (Lot) and has been graded to allow you to choose routes suitable for you. 1:50,000 maps are included for each route GPX files available to download Detailed information on accommodation, equipment to take, local plants and wildlife Highlights include medieval towns, châteaux and caves

Nationalistic meccas, shrines to popular culture, and sacred traditions for the world's religions from Animism to Zoroastrianism are all examined in two accessible and comprehensive volumes. Pilgrimage is a comprehensive compendium of the basic facts on Pilgrimage from ancient times to the 21st century. Illustrated with maps and photographs that enrich the reader's journey, this authoritative volume explores sites, people, activities, rites, terminology, and other matters related to pilgrimage such as economics, tourism, and disease. Encompassing all major and minor world religions, from ancient cults to modern faiths, this work covers both religious and secular pilgrimage sites. Compiled by experts who have authored numerous books on pilgrimage and are pilgrims in their own right, the entries will appeal to students, scholars, and general readers.