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Dordogne ChateauBest Dordogne Châteaux  The Dordogne boasts as many as 100 châteaux ranging from ruins to châteaux that are still inhabited.  Many have dramatic settings with splendid views over the river.  The best are a few miles to the west of Sarlat at Castlenaud and Marqueyssac.  The history is fascinating, dating back to the hundred years war where the French and English faced each other from their respective sides of the river!

Chateau de HautefortChateau de Hautefort

Location: In the village of Hautefort, to the east of D704, approx 25 km north of Montignac and the Lascaux caves.
General Information: Open from March to November with limited opening hours at either end of the season. Prices €8.50 for adults and €4 for those aged 7-14.  Tel No: 0(5) 53 50 51 23.
Description: Perched on a rocky promontory, this is a spectacularly sited castle in the northern Dordogne which can be seen for miles around. The castle interior is fascinating, particularly the ‘below stairs’ rooms created in and among numerous underground passages. The gardens are also superb, comprising both formal (box-tree walks) and informal elements (the English Park), offering plenty of scope for children to run around.
Chateau de HautefortOur Recommendations: This is more suited to older children but the grounds can be enjoyed by all, especially if you bring a picnic.
For the Children: There are activities laid on for children throughout the year, although these will be conducted in French. Check the web-site for details under the News section.

Our favourite Châteaux in the Dordogne:

          - Château de Beynac
          - Château Biron
          - Château de Castelnaud
          - Commarque Castle
          - Chateau de Hautefort
          - Château Marqueyssac
          - Les Milandes

There are some excellent websites on châteaux in the Dordogne including:
          - Casteland.Com
          - Best of Perigord

External websites offering information on the Dordogne:

- Virtual Guide around Perigord.

You may also be interested in visiting our section on the Lot which is within a day trip's reach from the Dordogne.
Chosen by our children:

     - Top Attractions in the Dordogne
     - Top ten Holiday destinations in France