A gentle and luminous winter interlude
December in the Dordogne has a peaceful quality that invites you to slow down.
The villages light up, the markets come alive, and the surrounding countryside is bathed in a winter light conducive to serenity.
At Allée des Noyers in Saint-Michel-de-Bannières , we cherish this simple and warm season: leisurely walks, gourmet discoveries, and moments shared in our glass-roofed lounge , bathed in natural light.
The major events of December
The Cuzance truffle market
Every winter, the Cuzance truffle market attracts both curious visitors and connoisseurs. There, one can discover the famous "black diamonds" of the Lot , their inimitable aroma, and the convivial atmosphere of an authentic local gathering.
The Christmas markets of Meyssac, Vayrac, Sarlat and Carennac
The magic of Christmas is experienced here on a human scale:
- Meyssac : traditional market in the square with red facades.
- Vayrac : family atmosphere and artisanal products.
- Sarlat : chalets, lights and entertainment over several days.
- Carennac : a picture-postcard setting for a charming market, in the heart of one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France .
Brive-la-Gaillarde in celebration
In Brive , the city dons its festive attire: Christmas market, ice rink, gourmet chalets, rides and street performances offer a joyful and friendly atmosphere.
The magical animation of Castel Novel Castle
The Château de Castel Novel in Varetz offers an elegant and refined Christmas atmosphere: period decorations, park lighting and entertainment for young and old.
Winter walks: nature and charming villages
Take advantage of the mild winter weather to rediscover the surrounding area in a new light.
The villages of Martel , Collonges-la-Rouge , Curemonte , Carennac and Autoire reveal themselves in a peaceful light, far from the summer crowds.
The rolling landscapes of the Lot , nestled between rivers and oak forests, invite contemplation and relaxation.
Cocooning atAllée des Noyers
The swimming pool is closed this season (from the end of October), but other pleasures take its place.
Under the bright glass roof , time stretches out with conversations, reading, board games, and moments of relaxation.
The communal kitchen allows you to heat up a local dish or enjoy some market produce: cheeses, nuts, jams, pastries… a simple and delicious way of life.
Michèle's walnut cake recipe
Because here, winter also rhymes with indulgence, here is a homemade treat sometimes served at breakfast: our walnut cake , soft and fragrant — a typical recipe from the Lot !
Ingredients :
- 5 eggs
- 180 g of sugar
- 200 g of butter
- 100g of flour
- 1 sachet of yeast
- 1 pinch of salt
- 200g of ground walnuts
Preparation :
- Whisk the egg yolks vigorously with the sugar.
- Add the softened butter, then the flour, yeast and salt.
- Incorporate the crushed nuts.
- Whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form and gently fold them in.
- Pour the batter into a greased 28–30 cm cake tin.
- Bake at 180°C for 25 minutes.
- Check if it's cooked: the knife blade should come out dry.
A moist cake to share, ideal with coffee or tea after a walk in the cold!
A guest house available for private hire for Christmas
What if you spent the holidays with family or friends in a guesthouse all to yourselves?
L' Allée des Noyers is offering a special exclusive rental for Christmas week:
4 spacious bedrooms with private bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a sunroom, and all the charm of a cozy stay in the heart of the Lot .
An ideal place to reconnect, laugh, cook, and create new memories.
Come and experience December atAllée des Noyers
Between markets, gourmet treats, and shared moments, December in the Lot is a season full of charm and authenticity.
L' Allée des Noyers welcomes you for a peaceful and warm stay, where you can take the time to simply savor life.
Want to book or give a stay as a gift?
Discover our gift cards and our special Christmas offer .
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