Circuit des Chateaux
Dordogne is known for its 1001 chateaux (castles), whether they are fairy tale castles of spires and turrets, or castellated fortresses, they are spectacular attractions as you drive through the area. Mon Coeur lies at the heart of some of the most beautiful castles in the Dodogne and Lot et Garonne.
Close to Bergerac are the castles of Monbazillac and Bridoire.
Monbazillac, is a beautiful turreted castle famed for its wine and is open all year, where a castle tour is followed by a wine tasting.
Chateau Bridoire is a really interesting castle being brought back to life by a french family who are restoring it to its past splendour. You can read more about it on the link (just click on Chateau Bridoire above).
Chateau Bannes is actually privately owned and therefore not open to the public, but it is an incredibly beautiful sight on the route from Beaumont du Perigord to Bergerac, and well worth a drive past.
Chateau de Biron is one of the larger castles in the Dordogne and the views from the small village leading up to the grand castle are amazing.
Chateau de Gavaudun is a 13th century fort on the road between Chateau Biron and Bonaguil. It is most well known for its 'donjon' or the keep. It is built on a rocky spur and the keep rises 25 metres above the rock, so you need a good head for heights to explore this one.
Chateau Bonaguil is the last of the 'fortified castles' in the region, and is probably the best maintained and one of the largest. It is a great castle to look around without needing a guide, and during the summer it holds an incredible Festival of Fireworks and Music.
On the River Dordogne, just below Sarlat, there is an area along the river which is renowned for its river cruises past soaring cliff top castles. If you would prefer to visit the castles individually, the three best ones are:
Chateau Beynac has a stunning location soaring above the Dordogne river. During the 100 years war it was held by the french and had regular skirmishes with Chateau Castelnaud, its neighbouring castle held by the english. Castelnaud is renowned for its collection of weapons of war and actual size siege catapults. The third of the castles in this area is Chateau Milandes which is the manor house castle that the owners of Chateau Castelnaud preferred to live in, instead of the large uncomfortable mediaeval castle. Later it was bought by Josephine Baker and there is an exhibit showing her life from mixed race burlesque dancer to Resistance worker. There is also a falconry display in the grounds and a cafe for lunch.