The Aquarium de Perigord Noir (just east of Bergerac) is the largest private aquarium in Europe. Here you can see all of the fish species living in the Dorodogne and children can feed the fish by hand.

The Cave of Lascaux contains one of the most outstanding displays of prehistoric art ever found. Originally discovered by four boys in 1940 while they were out looking for a lost dog, the cave was closed 20 years later as the artwork was becoming damaged from the onslaught of curious visitors. The existing Lascaux cave is an exactingly reproduced version next to the original, but don't be put off by this as it's well worth a visit.

Bergerac Aquapark (30 mins) is a good day out for children. There is a bowling-alley nextdoor and they also organise other activities such as quad-biking, canoeing, crazy golf, mountain-biking and canoeing (www.aquapark-aquitaine.com)

St Emillion is probably the most famous wine making centre in the world. Just 25 mins drive from La Graule this picturesque hilltop town is well worth a visit where you can spend the day tasting in the numerous wineries in and around the town.

Bastide towns are ancient walled towns typical of the Dordogne region. Recommended are Issegiac, Eymet and best of all is Montpazier (50 mins) voted one of the 10 most beautiful towns in France. Further east (1hr 30 mins) lie the spectacular clifftop towns of Sarlat and Domme. Both towns can be crowded in the summer months so we advise you to go there in the evening when they are lit and have a romantic feel.

Bergerac (35 mins) is the local centre for agriculture, wine and tobacco. Here you can find large supermarkets, shops and restaurants. The old quarter is interesting and a good place for a late lunch in one of the outdoor cafes, restaurants or pizzerias.

Chateaux The Dordogne boasts as many as 1000 castles and châteaux ranging from ruins to those that are still inhabited.  Many have dramatic settings with splendid views over the river and are open to the public.

The historic city of Bordeaux is one of the 5 largest cities in France and has much to offer the tourist. Here you can find cathedrals, museums, art galleries and much more. More info at www.virtourist.com/europe/bordeaux/index.html