In olden days, there were three ports on Bergerac’s Right Bank. The “Pradites”, not very accessible, the port of “Cadouin” separated by that of Pardites by the Récollets terrace, and upstream, the port of “Clairat”, which was often covered by water. These three ports were not well-adapted to the strong shipping activity that developed.
Between 1838 and 1843, the port was refitted with the construction of a quay from the port of Pardites to the port of Cadouin.

Today, the port is identical to the rebuilt one. It kept its vast quay that made it possible for gabares to draw alongside, whatever the height of the water.
The quay is built on the very hard ground of the riverbed, thanks to rot-proof wooden posts, beaten until they can go no farther into the ground. It is packed by gravel and sand riprap, the whole supported by sandstone paving, placed as header, which made it possible for barrels to await loading on boats without rolling, and for the quay to support their weight.
At the old site of the port of Cadouin, the first hold or “feeding trough” remains. It allowed the oxen used for the transport of goods to drink, and was useful for loading and unloading. The second hold of the old port of Pardites was used by many washerwomen.
The old tow path still exists and makes it possible to walk downstream to the dam.

Today the port of Bergerac is very popular with tourists. It offers visitors many activities: outings in gabares, fishing, hiking...


Source : « Bergerac & Le Pays Bergeracois » (éditions Pilote 24)