6035 Village De Saint‑jean De Cole Dordogne LibreTucked away in the Dordogne’s lush Périgord Vert, Saint-Jean-de-Côle is a charming, picturesque village that seems to have been plucked straight from a storybook.
With its stone houses, cobbled streets and a medieval bridge spanning the peaceful Côle River, it’s easy to see why this village has earned a spot on the prestigious list of “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France” – The Most Beautiful Villages in France.
6034 Village De Saint‑jean De Cole Dordogne LibreThe history of Saint-Jean-de-Côle is inextricably linked to the majestic Château de la Marthonie, a medieval fortress that has stood sentinel over the village since the 12th century.
Although the castle itself isn’t open to the public, its imposing towers and stone walls loom over the village square, adding a sense of grandeur to this peaceful hamlet. Legend has it that the castle once withstood several English invasions and numerous sieges, making it a key stronghold in the region during the Hundred Years’ War.
After centuries of turmoil, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the village began to flourish again, thanks to the arrival of the railway connecting Angoulême and Brive. Today, Saint-Jean-de-Côle enjoys a peaceful existence, attracting visitors from around the world who come to admire its unique blend of history and rustic charm.
Slow Vélo
Slow VéloTowering over the heart of the village is the Château de la Marthonie, a 12th- and 15th-century fortress that once protected the locals from invaders. Though the castle itself is closed to the public, its presence dominates the skyline, standing watch over the Place Saint-Jean. Built to withstand sieges, battles and looting, this castle has seen centuries of history unfold.
You can enjoy its grandeur from the square below – a great spot to sit with a coffee and soak in the view.
Right next to the château, you’ll find the other crown jewel of Saint-Jean-de-Côle: the Romanesque-Byzantine church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Its striking architecture sets it apart from other churches in the Dordogne region. With a design that merges Romanesque and Byzantine elements, this church is a feast for the eyes.
Have a look at the ancient tombs located just outside the church, where anthropomorphic sarcophagi lie in the shadow of the chancel wall. These so-called “respite tombs” date back to the Middle Ages, when infant mortality was high, and unbaptised babies were laid to rest in special cribs where holy rainwater would purify them over time. It’s a poignant reminder of the deeply rooted traditions of the time.
6032 Village De Saint‑jean De Cole Dordogne Libre
Slow VéloVisitors cannot help but be totally charmed by the village’s meandering narrow streets, lined with ochre-colored stone houses and brown-tiled roofs that won first prize in the “Toits de France” competition.
The village’s compact layout makes it perfect for a leisurely stroll, and every twist and turn seems to reveal something new to admire: half-timbered houses, intricate stone carvings, or a friendly local cat lounging in the sun.
A walk down to the Gothic bridge that crosses the Côle River is a must. This ancient stone bridge, paved with pebbles and dating back to the Middle Ages, is the ideal spot for admiring the village from a distance or dipping your toes in the cool river water during the warm summer months. It’s a peaceful oasis, allowing one to fully appreciate the beauty of this medieval marvel.
If you happen to visit in May, you’re in for a real treat.
Every year on the second weekend of May, the village hosts the Floralies de Saint Jean, a spectacular flower festival that attracts horticulture enthusiasts from far and wide.
The village is transformed into a sea of vibrant colours, with over a hundred exhibitors showcasing their finest plants, flowers, and garden products. The scent of blooming roses and lavender fills the air, and every street is adorned with floral displays that seem to spill from the windowsills.
Slow VéloLocated just 20 minutes from the larger town of Brantôme, Saint-Jean-de-Côle is the perfect spot for a relaxing half-day trip.
If you come by car, park outside the village, as it is pedestrian-friendly, compact and can be easily explored on foot or by bike. It’s perfect for families, as most of the narrow streets are pedestrianised and beautifully cobbled, as if to show off the beauty of the ochre-coloured stone used to build the village houses.
To fully appreciate the village’s hidden gems, tours are organised by the local Tourist Office with both audio-guided tours and in-person guides who can regale you with stories of the village’s rich history, from the battles of the Medieval Ages to the more tranquil times of the 19th century railway boom.
Slow Vélo
Slow Vélo
