Visit Turenne
Here's the best way to visit Turenne like a Gaillard: from the "100% Gaillard" tourist office, take the street after the café (take the opportunity to find your bearings on the map posted in this street, which shows you all the places to visit), then take the street that climbs steeply, turn left twice and you're at the top of the village. Each building of historical interest is indicated by a plaque on the wall, which will give you explanations.
Visit Turenne Castle
Established since the 11th century by the Viscounts of Comborn at the top of the cornice on the 1,200 m² available (260 x 60 m), the fortified castle now has only imposing remains. This demolition, ordered by Louis XV and awarded in 1753, owes nothing to the Revolutionaries, but to the purchase of the Viscounty by the King of France.
What to see at Turenne castle
- Defending the entrance to the château, the massive rectangular keep (Tour du Trésor or Tour de l'Horloge) dates from the 13th century. It offers a bird's eye view of the town and the Martel and Gramat limestone plateaux. Two large vaulted rooms are open to the public: the Salle des Gardes with its impressive fireplace, Louis XVIII furniture and collection of salt chests. You can also discover the majestic Treasure Room, 10 metres high.
- A vast and sumptuous main building once stood on the site of the platform occupied by the gardens.
- Opposite the keep, the round tower known as the Caesar Tower (12th-13th centuries) served as an observatory. A spiral staircase leads to the top of the tower, where you can enjoy sweeping panoramic views over the Dordogne valley to the south and, on a clear day, as far as the Cantal mountains.
A hanging garden between heaven and earth
The hanging garden at Château de Turenne is a serene oasis combining formal gardens and large English-style flowerbeds. Pines and cypresses lend the garden a southern charm, while boxwood and flowerbeds create a tranquil, relaxing space. Created in 1920, the garden has replaced the vines that once filled the medieval courtyard, offering visitors a pleasant place to make the most of the incredible panoramic views.
The garden is also part of an ongoing ecological project, focusing on biodiversity and sustainable practices such as rainwater harvesting and organic gardening methods.
An ideal venue for weddings and events
With its breathtaking views and historic charm, Château de Turenne is a dream venue for private weddings and events. The hanging garden, perched 350 metres above the valley, provides a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. The château's historic rooms can also be booked, guaranteeing a memorable experience whatever the weather.
For couples looking to create unforgettable memories, the chateau offers bespoke services, from gourmet dining to silent dance parties, where guests can spend the night with wireless headphones. Whether it's a wedding, an anniversary or a special celebration, Château de Turenne offers a magical setting that will leave a lasting impression.
Guided tours of Turenne
Discover the village of Turenne in the company of a guide who will tell you all about its history and show you its heritage. You can find more ideas for guided tours here.
Historical tour
- Wednesdays and Fridays at 10.30am and 3pm in July and August. Meet in front of the Tourist Office.
- Price: €5 (€2.50 for 6-12 year olds). Reservations recommended.
- Duration: 1h30 - Information 05.55.24.08.80 service.accueil@brive-tourisme.com
Interactive costumed tours:
Immerse yourself in the history of Turenne, capital of the Viscounty, dressed in period costumes. You'll have fun becoming a knight, noble lady or squire for the duration of the visit as you read sketches about the life of the people of Turenne in the Middle Ages.
- These nocturnal, costumed visits are scheduled for 21 and 28 July, as well as 4 and 11 August.
- Prices: €8 for adults and €4 for children aged 6 to 12, free for children under 6 - meet up in front of the Tourist Office at 8pm (departing at 8.30pm - registration required as places are limited).
You can book your guided tours online:
La Kopé
La Kopé des créateurs is Corrèze's first cooperative of artists and designers. Spread over two shops, this cooperative brings together 16 craftsmen and designers, and as many different skills and worlds. There's something to suit every taste and budget. Jewellery, lighting, wooden toys, decorative objects in wood, ceramics, leather, leather goods, cutlery, floral and plant art, textile creations, cosmetics, soaps.... All these creations are the work of local craftsmen and designers. Based in Corrèze, Cantal, Dordogne and Haute-Vienne, they offer a wide selection of their creations, the fruit of their expertise and passion. Open from April to October.
Preparing your visit to the château
For more information, contact the château on 05 19 31 02 68 or the Tourist Office on 05 55 24 08 80.
When is the Château de Turenne open?
- From 3 April to 3 July: 10.30am-6pm
- From 4 July to 23 August: 10am to 8pm
- Happy Hours from 5.30pm to 7.30pm every day in the Officers' Mess
- Every Wednesday until 10pm for Dinners in the Sky
- 27/07: Marshal de Turenne Day from 10am to midnight - From 24 August to 30 September: 10.30am to 6pm
- October to 11 November: 11am to 5pm
- 27 to 30 December and 2 to 4 January : 11am-12.30pm/13pm-4.30pm
How much does it cost to visit the Château de Turenne?
- Adults: €8.40
- Under 18s, students, unemployed, disabled people, seniors over 60 and groups of 12 or more: €6.90 with proof of age.
- Family pass: 2 adults and 2 children (aged 7 to 16): €25
- Children under 7: Free
Visit Turenne freely with a map of the village
View the interactive map without downloading:
If you wish, a map of the village will be given to you at the Tourist Office reception desk, with explanations to help you discover this listed village in detail. It can also be downloaded below:
- Map of the village and points of interest Télécharger (pdf, 831 KB)
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