Saint-Martin-l'Astier offers two clear starting points for a journey of discovery: the Église Saint-Martin-l'Astier in open countryside and routes that bring the river and forest into your plans. You can plan your stay around culture or focus more on outdoor activities: the church offers insights into architectural history and its furnishings, while the GR 646 and the fishing route offer different ways to explore the area.
Church Architecture and a Ceramic Stations of the Cross
The Église Saint-Martin-l'Astier was built in open countryside between the 9th and 12th centuries. Particularly striking is its octagonal tower, dating from the 9th century, which is exceptional for the region and this type of architecture. The date of the tower and the church’s longer construction period represent different historical layers.
Different periods also come together inside: the Romanesque nave is decorated with a more recent Stations of the Cross made of painted ceramic. The Église Saint-Martin has been listed as a Monument historique since 6 December 1948. The architecture, nave and furnishings thus offer different points of interest for anyone interested in architecture and religious art. The nave is the central longitudinal space of the building; “Romanesque” refers to its period, while the painted ceramic Stations of the Cross form a more recent part of the church’s interior furnishings.
Long-Distance Trail, River and Greenway
The GR 646 long-distance trail passes through the municipality of Saint-Martin-l'Astier and the Double Forest. Its connection to the landscape is different from that of the fishing route: the latter has been awarded the “Pêche Passion” label, extends for more than 15 km in the Périgord, and can be followed on foot along the river. Alternatively, you can use the greenway by bicycle.
When planning, it helps to consider how you will get around: the GR 646 is primarily a long-distance hiking trail; for the fishing route, both following the river on foot and using the greenway by bicycle are described. Check current trail conditions before your hike. If you would like to fish, check the local fishing regulations in force beforehand.
Local Festivities
Local festivities include an omelette Ă l'aillet on 1 May. A galette des rois with activities for children is also listed among the festivities. A late-night walk through the forests is also listed as a festivity. Before travelling, check the current festivities programme and the dates of each event, especially if you would like to plan your stay around one of them.
Accommodation and Planning
The activities described range from architecture to routes along the river and through the forest. A bicycle is available at Gîte La Mouthe in Saint-Martin-l'Astier; confirm this detail when booking.
Discover more destinations: Chassaignes, Saint-Jean-De-CĂ´le, Douville, Beynac-Et-Cazenac, Proissans, La Chapelle-Faucher, Sainte-Foy-De-Longas, Campsegret.
For the broader travel overview: Dordogne.
