The most beautiful châteaux in the Dordogne

Discover the most beautiful castles onInspire Villages Séveilles.

The Dordogne is famous for its magnificent castles, and the area around Inspire Villages Bigaroque is no exception. Get ready to step back in time and discover medieval times!

Beynac castle

Known as the most authentic of the Périgord castles, Château de Beynac is a medieval castle perched atop a hill overlooking the Dordogne River. Built in the 12th century, it played an important role in the Hundred Years' War. Standing between heaven and earth, the 152-metre-high keep offers unrivalled views over the Dordogne valley. You can also see it from your canoe on the Dordogne. Ideal for combining sport and culture!

A little anecdote? Château de Beynac has been used as a location for several films, including Luc Besson's "Joan of Arc" in 1999 and "Les Visiteurs" in 1993.

Castelnaud Castle

Château de Castelnaud is located a few kilometers downstream from Beynac. The château was built in the 12th century. It was repeatedly besieged and destroyed, and underwent several reconstructions. The current Château de Castelnaud dates from the late 15th century and was restored in the 20th century.

Once a fortified castle, it is now a museum of medieval warfare, with exhibits on weapons, armor and war machines. The castle is renowned for its exceptional collection of medieval weapons, one of the largest in Europe.

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With a rich program, you can immerse yourself in medieval times with trebuchet shooting, themed guided tours, night-time shows in summer...

Puymartin Castle

Château de Puymartin is located about 30 minutes' drive from Inspire Villages Bigaroque and 6km from Sarlat in the heart of Périgord Noir. This medieval château was built in the 13th century and destroyed during the Hundred Years' War. Rebuilt around 1450, it was restored in the 19th century.

During your visit, you can take a tour of the exterior to see the transformations and different defense systems used over the centuries. Inside, you'll rediscover the atmosphere of the period, thanks to rooms furnished with period furniture and Aubusson tapestries... A truly immersive experience!

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Commarque castle

Château de Commarque is a unique medieval castle. Located around 45 minutes' drive from Inspire Villages Bigaroque, it is perched on a hill and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Built in the 12th century, it was restored in the 20th century and is now open to the public for guided tours.

When you visit Château de Commarque, you'll discover relics of medieval life, such as the kitchens, watchtowers and banqueting halls. But that's not all! The castle is also famous for its prehistoric caves, located just a few steps away, which were occupied by prehistoric man over 20,000 years ago. Since then, the caves have been opened to the public, offering a unique opportunity to discover the region's prehistoric history.

If you're interested in medieval history and castles, the area aroundInspire Villages Séveilles is a great place to visit. These castles are some of the most beautiful and well-preserved in the region, and well worth a visit.