Take advantage of your vacation in Dordogne to discover its heritage: the numerous castles built in the region between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance have many wonders to reveal to you! From the Château de Castelnaud to Les Milandes, via Commarque, Losse, the Maison Forte de Reignac or the Château de Hautefort, follow the guide.
Château de Commarque – Les mystères de la Forteresse oubliée
Which castles to visit in Dordogne?
Périgord, land of castles and fortresses since the Middle Ages
Do you know Périgord for its prehistoric caves?
Take a leap back a few millennia in history and discover the medieval castles which mark the Vézère valley like that of the Dordogne valley.
The Périgord Noir conceals fortresses, each more impressive than the last. The ancient stones and surrounding landscapes perfectly evoke the great historical epics that took place there.
Why are there so many castles in Périgord?
To find out, we have to go back to the Hundred Years War. Aquitaine and Dordogne were the scene of battles opposing France to England: so many good reasons for build fortified castles like Beynac or Castelnaud. The residences preserved today and open to visitors are part of the rich heritage of Périgord.
The Vézère valley and the whole of Périgord Noir are home to an impressive variety of castles, ranging from medieval fortresses impressive to Renaissance residences. The Château de Losse, in Thonac, is a magnificent example of the transition between these two eras, with its medieval defensive structure and its sumptuous Renaissance apartments.
1 castles, really?
Legend says that the Dordogne counts 1 castles. One thing is certain: the region is steeped in history and many castles are worth a visit even centuries after their construction. If you pass through the Dordogne valley during the holidays, don't miss the Château de Fénelon, Les Milandes, the Château de Castelnaud or even that of Beynac, the must-sees of Périgord. Other fortresses like Commarque and its medieval ruins, the Château de Hautefort or the Fortified House of Reignac also promise you an unforgettable visit.
For culture and wine lovers, go to Bergerac! The wine estates offer a discovery of their cellar but sometimes also of their castle. These properties with undeniable charm belong to families of winegrowers delighted to present the architectural details. An emblematic castle in the Bergerac region offers an exceptional visit: the Château de Monbazillac. Not far from there, more family-friendly, discover the Château de Bridoire and its old games.
Castles and their gardens
The gardens surrounding the Dordogne castles are just as fascinating as the buildings themselves. At Losse Castle, visitors can stroll through perfectly maintained French gardens, where pruned boxwoods and delicately scented rose bushes blend harmoniously. These gardens offer a sumptuous setting to contemplate the beauty of nature skillfully crafted.
Fun visits for an unforgettable experience
Le Commarque Castle offers immersive guided tours that immerse visitors in the region's tumultuous history. Events and shows are regularly held there, recreating medieval times with chivalry demonstrations and craft workshops. At Losse Castle, tastings of local products, theatrical performances and night tours allow you to discover the castle from a fascinating new angle
Non-visitable castles and their mysteries
Although many castles are open to the public, some remain private and mysterious. The Château de Belcayre and the Château de Redon, nestled in the Périgord Noir, fascinate with their architecture and their history, but remain closed to visitors. These mansions evoke a fascinating mystery that only enhances their appeal.
