12 of the Best Dordogne Valley Chateaux
In this land of castles, there are any number of grand houses to visit. Here is our selection of the finest
Related articles: Exploring the Treasures of the Dordogne Valley
Things to See and Do in the Dordogne Valley
Where to Stay and Eat in the Dordogne Valley
CHÂTEAU DE CASTELNAU-BRETENOUX
The perfect example of a Dordogne fortified castle, Castelnau-Bretenoux sits high on a rocky plateau with six towers, three bastions and one heck of a keep… Its red stone walls make it visible for miles around. www.castelnau-bretenoux.fr
Chateau de Montal
CHÂTEAU DE MONTAL
With its fascinating history and glorious views of the Towers of Saint- Laurent (not to mention stunning period rooms and ornate stairwell) this Renaissance gem tops the list of places to visit. Don’t miss the sculptures in the courtyard. www.chateau-montal.fr
Chateau de Saint-Laurent-Les-Tours
CHÂTEAU DE SAINT-LAURENT-LES-TOURS
Lose yourself in Saint-Céré’s maze of narrow medieval streets before climbing the hill to discover a lavish display of tapestries by Jean Lurçat and fabulous panoramas over the village and countryside. www.saint-laurent-les-tours.fr
Chateau de Rocamadour
CHÂTEAU DE ROCAMADOUR
Built to defend the village’s sanctuaries in the Middle Ages, the Château de Rocamadour sits on top of a dramatic cliff. Only the ramparts are open to visitors but the views over the Alzou valley are breathtaking. A perfect start to your visit to Rocamadour. vallee-dordogne.com/rocamadour
Château de la Pannonie
CHÂTEAU DE LA PANNONIE
Six kilometres from Rocamadour, Château de la Pannonie has been in the same family for over 300 years and is a rare example of an 18th-century classical castle with English-style gardens. Open to the public from mid-June until the end of September. www.lapannonie.com
Chateau de Belcastel
CHÂTEAU DE BELCASTEL
Although the castle isn’t open to the public, its lush riverside setting is definitely worth a detour. Fancy treating yourself? Carry on for five minutes down the road and stop off for a Michelin-star lunch at the Château de la Treyne. www.chateaubelcastel.com
Château de Castelnaud
CHÂTEAU DE CASTELNAUD
The Château de Castelnaud overlooks the River Dordogne in the commune of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle. A true medieval playground, its artillery tower and incredible collection of weapons fascinate visitors and put larger fortresses to shame. www.castelnaud.com
Chateau de Turenne
CHÂTEAU DE TURENNE
Turenne greets visitors with two high towers separated by a superb garden. The Treasure tower houses a 14th-century keep and guardroom while the round Caesar tower offers views over the countryside from the top of its spiral staircase. www.chateau-turenne.com
Chateau de Val
CHÂTEAU DE VAL
The 13th-century Château de Val looks like it has come straight out of a Disney movie. Making the most of its lakeside location, it hosts various exhibitions and also welcomes dozens of musicians to perform in open-air concerts at sunset.
https://www.tourismecorreze.com/fr/tourisme_detail/chateau_de_val.html
Château de Ventadour
CHÂTEAU DE VENTADOUR
Perched on a rocky outcrop overhanging a valley, the Château de Ventadour was abandoned in the 14th century and largely demolished in the 18th. It was listed as a monument historique in the early 20th century and is now under restoration.
Chateau de Beynac
CHÂTEAU DE BEYNAC
This 12th-century clifftop castle sits on a high promontory overlooking the River Dordogne (and facing the Château de Castelnaud). It is one of the best-known in the region, and also one of the best-preserved and most-extensively restored. www.chateau-beynac.com
Chateau de Fénelon
CHÂTEAU DE FÉNELON
With a remarkable terrace offering valley views, Fénelon is a fine example of a medieval fortress gradually being extended and altered to become a more comfortable home for a succession of private owners. It is notable for its lauze stone roof. www.chateau-fenelon.fr
From France Today magazine
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By Guy Hibbert
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