The Dordogne, nicknamed the department of 1001 castles, is an architectural treasure trove.
This corner of France boasts an impressive number of historic monuments. Are you ready to travel back to the Middle Ages and Renaissance during your stay in an open-air hotel in Saint Cybranet? Discover our top 10 most beautiful castles in Périgord!
Château de Jumilhac
This Périgord château is best visited at dusk. It's at this time of day that the Château de Jumilhac is at its most beautiful. To the sound of baroque music, stroll through the underground passageways to the chambre de la Fileuse, and let yourself be lulled by the legends told by your guide. During the day, the gardens offer interactive and educational tours for children.
Place du Château, 24630 Jumilhac-le-Grand - 06 09 61 78 40 - from €6 for children and €8 for adults.
Château de Puyguilhem
Château de Puyguilhem stands in the heart of a verdant landscape. This Renaissance gem, once a hunting lodge, has been magnificently restored. Take time to contemplate its fireplace decorated with the labors of Hercules and its period kitchen. If you're lucky, a "Tea Time" visit to this historic chateau in the Dordogne may be on the cards.
Puyguilhem, 24530 Villars - 05 53 54 82 18 - €6
The Château de Montaigne
Discover the Périgord château where Michel de Montaigne, the famous writer, drew his inspiration. Tour the tower and grounds of his historic home, and sample local wines during your visit. Young adventurers can embark on a fun treasure hunt in the château, discovering the author.
24230 Saint-Michel-de-Montaigne - 05 53 58 63 93 - from €6 for children and €8 for adults.
The Château de Montréal
Admire the gardens of Château de Montréal, which have been awarded the "remarkable garden" label, the elegant salons and the immense portrait collection. Discover the underground passageways and the vaulted hall dating from the 12th century. The chapel of this Dordogne château houses 16th-century stone statues and a historic relic : a fragment of Christ's crown of thorns.
24400 Issac - 05 53 81 11 03 - from €4 for children and €6 for adults.
Hautefort Castle
Château de Hautefort offers a wide range of cultural and leisure activities. In addition to traditional visits, this Périgord château offers open-air film screenings, a variety of exhibitions and night-time discovery tours, as well as treasure hunts, creative workshops for children and boxwood cutting demonstrations.
Le Bourg, 24390 Hautefort - 05 53 50 51 23 - from €5 for children and €9.50 for adults.
Château de Bourdeilles
Château de Bourdeilles is distinguished by its dual architecture: visitors can admire both a medieval keep and a Renaissance palace. This Dordogne château, with its impressive collection of furniture, overlooks the Dronne valley. Open all year round, it offers fun activities for the very young.
Place de la Halle, 24310 Bourdeilles - 05 53 05 65 65 - from €5.40 for children and €8.30 for adults.
Castelnaud Castle
For lovers of the Middle Ages and military history, the Château de Castelnaud is a must-see destination. With its war museum, this Périgord château, located in one of France's most beautiful villages, invites you to take a trip back in time, between the English and French periods, through the Hundred Years' War, religious conflicts and the French Revolution.
24250 Castelnaud-la-Chapelle - 05 53 31 30 00 - from €4.90 for children and €9.80 for adults.
