Jardins de Marqueyssac: a balcony overlooking the Dordogne valley

Just 8 minutes by car or 20 minutes by bike from the famous Marqueyssac gardens, Slow Village is the ideal base for exploring the Périgord Noir region.

Unspoiled nature, listed villages and unforgettable walks, our open-air hotel in Saint-Cybranet is your guarantee of a rejuvenating stay in tune with the landscape.

The history of the estate and its château

Overlooking the Dordogne valley from a rocky outcrop, the Marqueyssac estate is built around a charming 18th-century château, with a typical "lauzes" roof. Périgord.

It was in the 19th century that the site came into its own, thanks to Julien de Cerval, a botanical enthusiast who shaped the park in a romantic spirit. He planted tens of thousands of box trees and introduced various species of trees such as cypresses, umbrella pines and ornamental trees, creating a plant composition with a Mediterranean feel.

The Marqueyssac gardens, open to the public since 1997, feature more than 6 kilometers of shaded paths dotted with belvederes, rockeries and dry-stone huts. The highlight of the visit is the Belvedere de la Dordogne, perched at an altitude of 192 metres, offering a 360° panorama of the valley's castles and villages.

A hand-carved plant casket

The Marqueyssac gardens owe their renown to their 150,000 hand-pruned boxwoods, in a style that is instantly recognizable (rounded shapes, dense volumes, sinuous lines...). This pruning, carried out several times a year, gives the site a strong, controlled identity, while respecting the spirit of the place.

This hand-crafted maintenance, faithful to tradition, gives the Marqueyssac gardens a rare aesthetic coherence. Far from being static, the estate evolves with the seasons, while retaining its meticulous character. Today, it represents an emblematic example of topiary art in France, and a true testament to the landscaping expertise of the Périgord Noir region.

Remarkable garden" label and listed site

The Marqueyssac hanging gardens have been awarded the " Jardin Remarquable" label by the French Ministry of Culture. This label distinguishes gardens of exceptional composition, landscape integration and historical or botanical interest.

The site is also classified as a Historic Monument, in recognition of its unique architectural and natural heritage.

These distinctions underline the value of the restoration work carried out since the 1990s, as well as the ongoing commitment to the preservation and enhancement of the site.

What to see and do in the gardens of Marqueyssac?

The Marqueyssac gardens offer much more than just a setting. In fact, they offer a complete experience combining nature, relaxation and discovery for young and old alike. Here's everything you don't want to miss on your visit.

A walk through the boxwood alleys

The Marqueyssac gardens can be visited in leisurely strides, along more than 6 kilometers of paths lined with centuries-old boxwood. The paths undulate through the park, offering different itineraries to suit every pace. The paths, designed for strolling, lead to lookouts, dry-stone houses, clearings and shady nooks and crannies.

Along the way, visitors are invited to observe the play of light, the views over the valley and the richness of the park's vegetation. It's a sensory discovery as much as a moment of peace and quiet, ideal for families or individuals, whatever the season.

Panoramic viewpoint over the Dordogne valley

At the far end of the estate, the Marqueyssac belvedere offers a magnificent viewpoint, rated 3 stars in the Michelin Green Guide. Perched 130 metres above the Dordogne River, it overlooks the famous "valley of castles" and its listed villages, with a 360° view of an emblematic Périgord landscape.

Three routes lead to this unforgettable panorama. You can choose between the Promenade des Falaises, bordering the limestone cliffs, the Promenade des Hauteurs, steeper and wilder, and the Grande Allée, shaded and accessible from the château.

Well thought-out signage accompanies the discovery, with panels on fauna, flora and history.

Activities for children: workshops, playground, via ferrata

Children are not forgotten at the Domaine des Jardins de Marqueyssac. The park is packed withfun and educational activities. The large boxwood labyrinth, the tree houses and the two play areas give youngsters the chance to play in the heart of nature. The tree net course, suspended from the treetops, offers an aerial adventure in complete safety.

During the vacations, creative and naturalistic workshops are offered: making objects from natural elements or discovering the world of bees with a passionate beekeeper.

For older children, the Via Ferrata des Rapaces is an unforgettable experience. It's a 200-meter acrobatic course built into the cliffs above the Dordogne. Accessible from age 8 (minimum 1.30 m), this unique activity combines thrills with magnificent scenery.

Candlelight evenings: magic at sunset

Every summer, the gardens of Marqueyssac are transformed at nightfall into a magical garden illuminated by 2,000 candles and over 150 points of light. The Promenade des Falaises, sublimated by the play of light and shadow, delivers a unique atmosphere, a blend of nature and romance.

Six musical atmospheres accompany the visit. Visitors are lulled to sleep by gypsy jazz, piano, saxophone and a DJ. Children can enjoy a candle-making workshop or a poetic show on stilts.

The view of the valley's villages and castles, softly lit at dusk, completes this rare sensory experience. A tea room and sandwich bar on the panoramic terrace are also available. These special evenings can only be booked online. Arrival at least one hour before sunset is recommended to fully enjoy the magic of the place.

Preparing your visit to the Marqueyssac gardens

Opening hours and special periods

The Marqueyssac gardens welcome visitors all year round, with opening times adapted to the seasons:

• February, March and October 1 to November 11: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• April, May, June, September: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• July and August: 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• November 12 to end of January: 2pm to 5pm (exception: December 21 to January 4, open from 11am to 5pm, December 25, 2pm to 5pm)

Last admissions take place one hour before closing time.

Candlelit evenings on Thursday evenings in July and August run from 7pm to midnight, with final entry at 11pm.

Prices and ticketing options

The Marqueyssac gardens offer prices that vary according to the season.

From April 1 to November 11, the adult rate is €12.90, while children aged 10 to 17 benefit from a reduced rate of €6.50.

From November 12 to March 31, admission is €10.90 for adults and €5.50 for children aged 10 to 17. Admission is free for children under 10.

Admission includes access to the gardens, gazebos, labyrinth, play areas, children's activities and via ferrata (depending on season).

Matching tickets for Château de Castelnaud are also available, as are special rates for candlelit evenings. These special evenings must be booked online in advance, as classic or twin tickets are not valid for these events.

Practical tips

Allow around 2 to 3 hours to make the most of the Marqueyssac gardens, between walks, viewpoints and activities. For your comfort, bring suitable footwear. Some paths are sloping or covered with gravel. In summer, remember to protect yourself from the sun, especially on the most exposed paths.

The site has a free, shaded parking lot, accessible to cars, camper vans and people with reduced mobility. Two picnic areas are available, one covered near reception, the other outside near the parking lot. The Marqueyssac gardens are just 8 minutes by car or 20 minutes by bike from our open-air hotel.

The gardens remain partially accessible to people with reduced mobility. An electric shuttle bus runs along the Grande Allée from April to September. Benches line the entire route, and there are toilets for disabled visitors. A Braille guide is also available at reception.

Don't worry about pets: leashed dogs are allowed.

Why visit Marqueyssac during your vacation in the Dordogne?

In the heart of the Périgord Noir region, Marqueyssac is a must-see for anyone exploring the Dordogne valley. This hanging garden, both poetic and accessible, combines heritage, nature and relaxation in an exceptional setting.

A natural, calm and contemplative activity

The Marqueyssac gardens offer a serene interlude, ideal for slowing down and reconnecting with nature. Between the paths lined with hand-trimmed boxwood, the belvederes and viewpoints over the valley, the walk invites contemplation. The silence, disturbed only by birdsong or rustling leaves, makes for a deeply soothing experience. Take time to observe, breathe and marvel.

A family tour for everyone

The Marqueyssac gardens are designed to appeal to visitors of all ages. Children will love the boxwood labyrinth, play areas, creative workshops and tree net course. Parents, meanwhile, appreciate the secure setting, easy access and numerous rest areas. The variety of courses meansthe visit canbe adapted to suit the age or energy of the visitor. Even the via ferrata offers a touch of adventure for older children. It's a well-balanced family outing, combining nature, discovery and relaxation.

A must-see view of Périgord

From the top of its rocky spur, the Marqueyssac estate offers one of the finest panoramas in the Périgord Noir.

From the belvedere, the view plunges down to the Dordogne valley, with its perched castles (Beynac, Castelnaud, Fayrac) and listed villages such as La Roque-Gageac and Domme. The 360° viewpoint, 130 metres above the river, is a highlight of the visit. It allows you to fully appreciate the richness of the Périgord landscape, made up of unspoilt nature, heritage and relief. A true natural balcony not to be missed during your stay!

Would you like to discover the gardens of Marqueyssac in the best possible conditions? Book your stay at Slow Village Saint-Cybranet, our nature hotel just 8 minutes away!

FAQ - Jardins de Marqueyssac

How long does the tour last?

The average visit to Marqueyssac's gardens lasts 2 to 3 hours, but you can spend half a day if you want to explore all the paths, enjoy the activities or take a break in the tea room.

Can we visit with children?

Yes, the site is perfectly suited to families: play areas, labyrinth, creative workshops, tree climbing, and even a via ferrata for older children.

Do I need to make a reservation?

Reservations are not required during the day, except for candlelight evenings, which must be booked online. Tickets are also available on site.

Are there any events or guided tours?

Children's activities are offered during the school vacations. The site is open to the public, with comprehensive educational signage.

Are candlelit evenings included in the ticket?

No, classic tickets are not valid for these special evenings. A special ticket, available online only, is required.

Is the site accessible to baby carriages or people with reduced mobility?

The site is partially accessible: some paths are wheelchair-accessible, and an electric shuttle bus makes it easy to get around. Strollers are welcome on the Grande Allée and around the château.

Can we picnic on site?

Yes, two picnic areas are available: one near the parking lot, the other, covered, near reception. Ideal for a family break.