Dordogne Chateaux

The rugged and imposing Dordogne Chateaux are lasting symbols of a rich and turbulent history. The region was at war for over 400 years and witnessed many battles, most notably the Hundred Years War and War of Religion.

So it's not surprising that there are so many castles here (over one thousand of them, in fact!). Dungeons, impregnable fortresses, torture chambers...the knight in shining armour would feel right at home! Some of the Dordogne Chateaux have been used as sets for major hollywood movies (such as Jeanne d'Arc and Chocolat).

If you'd like to select a few to see, here are some of our favourites. All of these castles are in Southwest France, in or near the beautiful Perigord.

- Beynac and Castelnaud -

The two medieval fortresses of Beynac and Castlenaud vie for attention, with their dramatic position perched on the clifftops. Beynac was captured by Richard the Lionheart in 1184.

If you are feeling energetic, climb up to the top for wonderful panoramic views of the countryside. Another way to enjoy the castle is to rent a canoe.

Beynac is about 20 mins drive southwest of Sarlat.

- Chateau de Montfort -

To the east of Beynac is the Chateau de Montfort, one of the most photographed of Dordogne Chateaux. It's not open to the public but is still worth seeing for it's dramatic setting.

The castle has a long history of war - it was captured by Simon de Montfort (a french nobleman who fought in the Albigensian Crusade) in 1214, then burned to the ground. It was seized by the English during the Hundred Years War and has been rebuilt several times.

- Chateau de Biron -

You'll see the vast Chateau de Biron from a distance as you approach it. The castle dates from the 12th century and has been added to over the years so it is a remarkable mix of architectural styles from medieval, to gothic, to renaissance.

For us, its one of the most impressive of all the Dordogne Chateaux - mainly because of its sheer size! Biron is about 40 mins drive southeast of Bergerac.

- Chateau de Belcastel -

The Chateau de Belcastel was built in the 11th century and, after falling into ruin for many years, was discovered by french architect Fernand Pouillon in the 1970s and painstakingly restored (they didn't use machines - it was all done by hand). Technically this castle is in the département of Aveyron but can be reached on a daytrip from Sarlat (about 2 1/2 hours drive).

What Else...?

If you've had your fill of castles and want to do something different, click here for some more ideas on things to see in the Dordogne.

You've also got Bordeaux (wine tasting!), the Lot Valley and fantastic prehistoric art nearby.

Other Pages of Interest

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