The castles
Not everyone is going to build castles in the air; in fact, quite a few have chosen to build them near Brive!
Noble families from the Brive region have left us remnants of the past: the Dukes of Noailles and the Viscounts of Turenne, for example, lived in castles. Some of them are even open to visitors, and for those that aren’t, let yourself be charmed by discovering them as you wander along country lanes or footpaths.
Many castles in the Dordogne and the Lot also offer their own array of tours and historical discoveries.
A selection of some cracking châteaux!
1
Turenne Castle
Turenne was the seat of a virtually independent viscountcy until it was incorporated into the kingdom in the 18th century. Traces of this remain, including César’s Tower and the Clock Tower, which overlook a village of narrow white-stone streets. The climb is rewarded with a view of the surrounding hills. Ideal for a half-day trip, combined with a stroll through the village. A guided tour of the village is also available.
20 minutes from Brive.
2
Hautefort Castle
Linked to the legacy of the troubadour Bertran de Born, the château was remodelled during the Classical period and subsequently restored following the fire of 1968. Its French-style gardens and grounds make for a pleasant visit at any time of year. Allow 2 to 3 hours.
45 minutes from Brive.
3
Pompadour Castle
Presented by Louis XV to the Marquise de Pompadour, the château is now associated with the national stud farm, which continues a long equestrian tradition. Depending on the season, shows, competitions and events bring the site to life.
40 minutes from Brive-La-Gaillarde.
4
Montal Castle
Built in the 16th century by Jeanne de Balsac for her son, who had gone off to fight in Italy, Montal captivates visitors with its façade adorned with sculptures and its grand staircase. The château was restored in the early 20th century by Maurice Fenaille. A must-see for lovers of Renaissance architecture.
53 minutes from Brive-La-Gaillarde.
5
Castelnau Bretenoux Castle
This red sandstone fortress has overlooked the Dordogne valley since the Middle Ages. It owes its preservation to the tenor Jean Mouliérat, who restored it from its ruins in the early 20th century before bequeathing it to the State. The site is managed by the Centre des monuments nationaux. One of the finest châteaux in the Lot.
50 minutes from Brive.
6
Tours de Merle
A former stronghold built on a rocky outcrop above the Maronne, the site comprises a collection of restored towers and buildings. Here, you can stroll through the narrow streets of a fortified village and discover what daily life was like in the Middle Ages. Allow around two hours and wear sturdy shoes.
One hour from Brive.
7
Paluel Castle
Built in the 14th century near Sarlat, burnt down in 1944 and known to the general public as the setting for the film *Le Tatoué* (1968), the Château du Paluel is now a ruined castle currently undergoing restoration. Visitors can explore the ruins and appreciate the scale of the conservation work underway. An unusual site, best suited to visitors prepared to walk over uneven ground.
54 minutes from Brive.
8
Salignac Castle
Overlooking the valley between Périgord and Quercy, the Château de Salignac invites you to discover one of the oldest estates in the Périgord and one of its most important medieval co-lordships. Since 2006, a father and son have been breathing new life into this fortress to restore it to the splendour of its golden age: the 15th century.
35 minutes from Brive.
9
The Fortified House of Reignac
This cliff-top castle is built against the rock face, making use of its natural shelters. Its stone façade seems to emerge from the rock face itself. The furnished interior is heated in winter by large, working fireplaces. A unique experience, much loved by families.
50 minutes from Brive.
10
The Dungeon, Manor House and Garden of La Salle
In the village of Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, this estate comprises a 12th-century keep with an oak roof structure covered in slate, a 15th-century manor house and a garden featuring a 300-year-old cedar tree. Visitors can explore a cabinet of curiosities and walk along the rampart walk. Recently opened to the public: a site well worth discovering.
50 minutes from Brive.
11
Fénelon Castle
The birthplace of François de Salignac de la Mothe Fénelon, Archbishop of Cambrai and author of *The Adventures of Telemachus*, the château overlooks the Dordogne valley from its rocky outcrop. Its ramparts, inner courtyard and views over the valley make this a great addition to a day out in the Périgord Noir.
50 minutes from Brive.
Which castle should you choose, depending on your preferences?
The must-sees
For a first visit, three sites stand out: Turenne (1), for its hilltop village and panoramic views; Castelnau-Bretenoux (5), for the grandeur of its fortress; and Hautefort (2), for the perfect balance between castle and gardens.
For children
Les Tours de Merle (6) is ideal for a family outing: you can stroll through a genuine fortified medieval town, perched high above the Maronne Gorges. The Donjon de la Salle (10), with its parapet walk and its cabinet of curiosities featuring fantastical creatures, is also a hit with younger visitors. The fortified house at Reignac (9), built into the cliff face, guarantees a sense of adventure.
For the gardens
Hautefort (2) is renowned for its French-style gardens, Salignac (8) for its terraces and setting, and Fénelon (11) for its location overlooking the valley.
For history and architecture
Montal (4) is a Renaissance gem, Castelnau-Bretenoux (5) a medieval fortress, and Le Paluel (7) a 15th-century castle currently undergoing restoration, a visit to which offers an insight into life on a heritage restoration site.
For horse lovers
Pompadour (3) is home to a château linked to the Marquise de Pompadour and a national stud farm, one of the key centres of the Limousin’s equestrian tradition.
For lovers of scenic views
Turenne (1), Castelnau-Bretenoux (5) and Fénelon (11) offer panoramic views of the Dordogne valley and the surrounding hills.
Practical advice
- When is the best time to go? From May to September, all the sites are open, but some close or have reduced opening hours during term time. Spring and early autumn are the most pleasant times of year for the gardens and the light.
- How much time should you allow? Allow between 1½ and 3 hours per castle, plus travelling time. Visiting two sites a day is a good pace.
- Getting around. A car is virtually essential. From Brive, the A20 motorway and local roads provide easy access to all the sites.
- Accessibility. This varies greatly depending on the site (stairs, uneven ground). Please check directly with the castle in question.
- Prices and opening times. These vary from season to season: check the official websites before you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Tip Playing the knight at Turenne
If you’re keen to broaden your knowledge of medieval architecture, do go and admire the village of Turenne! Listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, Turenne is home to the ruins of a fortified castle, including a massive 13th-century keep. And when night falls, treat yourself to a tasty drink before joining a costumed torchlight tour.
Château de Turenne,
19500 Turenne
05 55 24 08 80 (Brive Agglomération Tourist Office)
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