Les Châteaux De Bruzac 6

The legend has it that the Périgord is the land of 1001 châteaux ...

«The Good Lord wanted to sprinkle the king- dom of France with castles. So, he left with a heavy bag and, on the fl y, like wheat, he threw here and there whole handfuls of castles. He had already traveled through many provinces but when fl ying over the Périgord, he pulled up his huge bag but he noticed that it had holes. Towers, curtain walls and turrets were falling down from the gaping holes. So, before fl ying back to Pa- radise to renew its supply of battlements and machicolations, our Eternal Father shook his bag over the stony hillsides of the Dordogne, the Vézère, the Photo credit: Dronne and the Auvézère. F. TESSIER/OT PERIGORD Dronne Belle - Petite souris photogra- So much fell off it that no country on earth phie/Pays Périgord Vert - Dan Courtice - Jonathan Barbot Comité Départemental du Tourisme de la Dordogne – has more castles, mansions and estates.» Périgord Nontronnais Tourist Board - Les 2 Abbesses en vert – Wild- life park - Jean-Yves le Dorlot – Owners of the participating estates and castles.

Conception/lay-out : Mathieu PEYPELUT Jean Secret, Le Périgord, châteaux, Communications offi cer manoirs et gentilhommières, Tallandier 1966 Communauté de Communes Dronne et Belle The legend has it that the Périgord is the land of 1001 châteaux ...

Conception/lay-out : Mathieu PEYPELUT Jean Secret, Le Périgord, châteaux, Communications offi cer manoirs et gentilhommières, Tallandier 1966 Communauté de Communes Dronne et Belle Our Partners A whole network of actors from the Périgord!

Comité Départemental du Tourisme de la Dordogne 25 rue Wilson - BP 40032 24002 PÉRIGUEUX CEDEX 05 53 35 50 24 www.dordogne-perigord-tourisme.fr www.chateauxenfete.com https://www.facebook.com/DordognePerigordTourisme/

Office de Tourisme PERIGORD Dronne Belle 2 rue Puyjoli de Meyjounissas 24310 BRANTÔME EN PÉRIGORD 05 53 05 80 63 [email protected] www.perigord-dronne-belle.fr facebook.com/tourismeperigorddronnebelle/

Parc naturel régional Périgord-Limousin Maison du Parc La Barde 24450 LA COQUILLE 05 53 55 36 00 [email protected] www.pnr-perigord-limousin.fr facebook.com/parcperigordlimousin

Filiere Tourisme Crédit Agricole Charente Périgord 39 Route de Bordeaux «Les 3 chênes » Saint Laurent des vignes 24111 BERGERAC CEDEX [email protected] 06 33 61 96 72

Office de Tourisme du Périgord Ribéracois Office de Tourisme du Périgord Limousin 05 53 90 03 10 05 53 55 12 50 [email protected] bit.thiviers@perigord-limousin.fr Office de Tourisme du Périgord Nontronnais 05 53 56 25 50 ot.nontron@wanadoo.fr

Office de Tourisme Saint Aulaye Office de Tourisme Naturellement Périgord 05 53 90 63 74 05 53 52 29 79 [email protected] [email protected]

4 Table of content

Château des Sénéchaux (1)...... 6 Château de la Côte (2)...... 7 Château de la Hierce (3)...... 8 Domaine de Montplaisir (4)...... 9 Château de Puyguilhem (5)...... 10 Châteaux de Bruzac (6)...... 11 Château de la Guionie (7)...... 12 Château de la Marthonie (8)...... 13 Château de Nanthiat (9)...... 14 Jardin d’Helys du Domaine des Gissoux (10)...... 15 Château de Jumilhac (11)...... 16 Château de Châlus-Chabrol (12)...... 17 Château de Champniers-Reilhac (13)...... 18 Tour du château de Piégut (14)...... 19 Château le Verdoyer (15)...... 20 Château de Nontron (16)...... 21 Château de Varaignes (17)...... 22 Château du Logis (18)...... 23 Château de Connezac (19)...... 24 Château de Beauvais (20)...... 25 Château de Bellussière (21)...... 26 Châteaux de Beaurecueil (22)...... 27 Repaire de la Vergne (23)...... 28 Château de la Combe (24)...... 29 Château d’Aucors (25)...... 30 Château de Lasteyrie (26)...... 31 Château de Mareuil (27)...... 32 Château de Fongrenon (28)...... 33 Château de la Meyfrenie (29)...... 34 Château de Fayolle (30)...... 35 Château de Saint-Aulaye (31)...... 36 Domaine de la Vallade (32)...... 37 Calendrier des activités ...... 38-39 Carte des châteaux ...... 40-41 Idées de circuits ...... 42-43 Sites et activités ...... 44-45-46 Hébergement et restauration ...... 47

Bourdeilles castle takes part in this event. You will find its programme on Châteauxenfete.com - Discover 50 more estates in the Dordogne and the Lot-et-Garonne!

5 1 Le Château des Sénéchaux

This castle was first mentioned in 1451 as «Hopitum de Helias». Originally built by the humanist Jean Bertaud, born in La Tour Blanche in 1502. He had the lordship over Pouzols and les Hélies and was ad- visor to André de Bourdeilles. Together with the castle of La Tour Blanche, the “hopitum” accommodated the seneschals of the barony of Bourdeilles and provided them with headquarters. The château de Bourdeilles was actually their headquarters but it was just an austere and almost uninhabitable medieval fortress. The Renaissance building that would finally accommodate them was only built at the very end of the 16th century. The King granted the seneschals authority over the ten provinces of France. There were also the seneschals in towns and castles, but in spite of their important role, they were inferior to the seneschals of the provinces. Arnaud I was the first of the lords of Bourdeilles to be granted this charge (15th century). He was followed in the 16th and 17th centuries by André de PROGRAMME Bourdeilles, elder brother of Pierre de Brantôme, ab- Sunday May 30, June 6 and 13: bot commissioner of the abbey of Brantôme and author of the «Dames Galantes ”. • Guided tours for small groups organised by André de Bourdeille was also the husband of the owners, incl. refreshments, at 10 am, Jacquette de Montbron, the «woman architect» who 12 am, 2 pm and 4 pm. commissioned at great expense the building of the Duration: approx. 1.5 hour. Renaissance castle near the medieval residence in the • Tours of the 15th, 16th and 17th century hope of receiving Queen Catherine de Medici, who parts of the castle, incl. the spiral staircase, never came. the vaulted cellars, the jail, the tower, The manor house is built with dimension the terrasses, the garden and the belvedere stones. Its courtyard gable still has a trilobal arch from over the river the Gothic period (15th century). (as well as the gîtes upon availabiliy). In the corner of the mansion, a hexagonal tower is • Prices: €5 per person (free under 18) pierced with lattice windows (16th century) and has traces of cannon fire. The Napoleonic cadaster shows N.B.: on-site accommodation is possible upon re- two 17th century pavilions forming an inner cour- servation (see photos on facebook/chateaudesse- tyard, which one enters from the south. nechaux and on Instagram chateau_des_senechaux). The presence of a Seneschal helm in the tym- panum of the classical door is a testimony of the pri- mary function of the residence. So are the jail and the secret tunnel that leads to the medieval castle. Contact The current owners of this private château run a fa- Chateau des Senechaux mily residence and three apartments for rent that are Rue de l’Eglise - 24310 Bourdeilles luxurious and spacious, decorated and furnished with Kay Martinesz / David Pugh - 06 47 38 68 34 class and elegance. www.facebook.com/chateaudessenechaux Instagram: chateau_des_senechaux heritageduperigord

6 Le Château de La Côte 2

The charm of the past, in one of the most beautiful 15th century châteaux-hotels of the Péri- gord awaits you in the heart of the Golden Triangle between Brantôme, Périgueux and Bourdeilles. The Château de la Côte hotel restaurant is located on a carpet of lush greenery in a romantic setting. Its round towers and its ivy-covered turrets do- minate a superb six-hectare wooded park and flower gardens.

The castle has charming and cozy historical lounges with old woodwork, fireplaces decorated with fleur-de-lys, and authentic furniture that create a soothing atmosphere. The bar’s warm boudoir atmosphere is equipped with a bridge game table, chess tables and video-conference facilities...

The Château’s gourmet restaurant has tables in the dining room and on the terrace. It is decorated with herringbone parquets, wooden beams and PROGRAMME pretty woodwork, paintings and a fireplace. • First flight in a hot air balloon on Sunday June 6 The rooms combine the same perfect balance and Sunday June 13, upon reservation and depen- between character, charm of yesteryear and modern ding on weather conditions comfort. Their subtle decoration expresses a sense of - 10-minute static flight, from 9 am to 8 pm. discreet luxury with a soothing view over the park and Prices: €50 per person, €90 for two/couple, €120 wooded hills. couple with child (under 12). - Every day one-hour free flight (3 hours all in all) early in the morning or end of afternoon. Pre- booking mandatory. Prices: €445 for two adults, €545 for 3 adults.

• Dinner every evening between Saturday June 5 and Sunday June 13, except on Mondays - 20% deposit upon reservation, “Chez nous, c’est la fête en Périgord”. Local menu.

• Swimming pool and recreation area, incl. table tennis, boules, badminton, volley ball, football Ticketing from 9:30 am to 12:30 am and from 2 pm to 5 pm Contact Château de La Côte, hôtel***-restaurant Recreation area open from 10 am to 8 pm. 24310 BIRAS Prices: €15 per adult, €10 per child. Tel : 05 53 03 70 11 & 06 17 52 15 94 [email protected] www.chateau-hotel-dordogne.fr

7 3 Le Château de la Hierce

The Château de la Hierce, built almost in the heart of the city of Brantôme and listed as a Histori- cal Monument, is a recreational home from the 1520- 1530’s under the reign of Francis I. Located on the left bank of the river Dronne, the château is built on a limestone cliff pierced with caves which were used as its foundations. It is one of the finest examples of Re- naissance architecture and sculpture in the Périgord.

Built in a site occupied for thousands of years, as evidenced by the cave dwellings under its foundations, La Hierce is the only example in the Périgord of a Renaissance castle without any medieval or Gothic influence as opposed to the standards of castle architecture until the end of the 16th century. The builders’ originality and innovation give the château an elegance, beauty and charm that impress its visitors.

One of the caves extending from the building is decorated with prehistoric engravings, while an ancient fish farming pond and the remains of an aerial accommodation without any equivalent in France were built into the cliff.

PROGRAMME Sunday June 13 at 2:30 pm and 4:30 pm:

• Guided tours of the exterior of the castle and presentation of a collection of old pewters - Guided tour of the outside of the castle (history and architecture) as well as the caves and the cave dwellings. - Presentation of a collection of 18th and 19th centuries pewters in a former medieval cave dwelling.

Prices: €8 per person (over 13); €5 from 5 to 12; Free for children under 5. Groups up to 20 people maximum.

Contact Château de la Hierce 24310 BRANTOME EN PERIGORD 06 06 66 56 61

8 Le Domaine de Montplaisir 4

Located in the village of Condat sur Trincou, between Brantôme and Saint-Jean-de-Côle, on the banks of the river Côle, Montplaisir was built in the 17th century, extended and adapted in the 18th and 19th centuries on the site of an older castle, of which only the 15th century square tower remains. Mont- plaisir then belonged to the barony of Bourdeilles. In the 16th century, the old castle of Montplaisir was a noble haunt depending on La Borie-Saulnier (Cham- pagnac-de-Belair). The Saulniers were the lords of this fiefdom under Louis XIV. A marriage alliance brings them to Montplaisir. The old haunt then became a residential dwelling. From the 18th century, again through marriage alliances, the lordship of PROGRAMME Montplaisir became the property the de Saint-Aulaire • Thursday June 3 and Thursday June 10 at 6 pm: family. In 1957, the de Saint-Seine family acquired the - Concerts (piano and songs) in the living room (Schu- property. bert, Fauré, Poulenc, Mozart, Puccini), followed by an Currently, the third generation of this family aperitif. lives in Montplaisir. Besides its agricultural vocation Upon reservation, limited number of places. (orchards), the estate hosts weddings and private Price: 15 € per person. receptions as well as professional events (seminars, team-building…). Fun days dedicated to a large au- • Friday June 11 from 7 pm: dience are currently being studied (escape games, - Jazz evening/picnic in the park (depending on the puzzles, role-playing games, etc.). weather!) Upon reservation. Price: €10 per person, aperitif offered by the owners, bring your snacks.

Contact Domaine de Montplaisir Monplaisir, 24530 CONDAT-SUR-TRINCOU 06 26 90 62 12 / 06 03 91 11 55 [email protected]

9 5 Le Château de Puyguilhem

Puyguilhem is the best-preserved Renaissance castle in the Périgord. It was built at the beginning of the 16th century on the initiative of Mondot de La Marthonie, president of the Parliament of Bordeaux, then of the Parliament of Paris. After his death in 1517, his project was carried out by his brother Gaston. The exceptional quality of its sculpted decoration makes of Puyguilhem one of the finest examples of Renais- sance architecture in the Périgord. On the 1st floor, an exceptionally wide fireplace bears a magnificent decoration: six niches de- picting the Labours of Hercules. The Centre des monuments nationaux presents “Fantaisies pour un palais” (Fantasies for a Pa- lace), an exhibition about the Rococo style in the 18th century alongside fairy tales and operas using stage machinery allowing for scenic effects and changes of sets to create surprise and enchantment.

PROGRAMME • From May 29 to October 31: Exhibition “Fantaisies pour un palais” (Fantasies for a Palace) (included in the visit of the castle)

• Saturday June 5 from 8:30 pm: - Night tour of the castle and the exhibition

• Family workshop: “Fantasies for a mirror”, come and create a mirror reflecting your own fantasy. - Sunday June 6 from 2 pm to 4 pm, as part of “Châteaux en fête” - Thursday July 29 from 2 to 4 pm - Thursday August 5 from 2 to 4 pm - Thursday August 12 from 2 to 4 pm

Prices for the workshops and the night tour: Contact - €8 full rate, €4 for visitors under 26. Château de Puyguilhem - Advance booking required: 05 53 54 82 18. 24530 VILLARS [email protected] 05 53 54 82 18 www.chateau-puyguilhem.fr

10 Les Châteaux de Bruzac 6

Built on the foundation of a feudal mound, the castles of Bruzac date for the oldest part back to the 12th century. They underwent significant restorations in the 15th century, which is why there are elements in the remains which remind of early Renaissance, without being quite so.

They are the fief of a Flamenc family with very strong family ties with the Viscounts of Limoges. The separation into two collective lordships undoubtedly precipitated the fall of the family’s influence which lasted, however, until the 18th century. One part remained the property of the Flamenc family, but another part passed into the hands of different lords of the region, such as the Hautefort, Marqueyssac (d’Ans) families, and, of course, the La Marthonie fa- PROGRAMME mily. Wednesday June 2 and Saturday June 5: • Open doors from 11 am to 6 pm

- Saturday May 29 and Saturday June 12: - Sunday May 30 and June 13: • Guided tours punctuated with entertainment; poems, theatre (extracts from Reynard the Fox) Two sessions per day: at 2 pm and 4 pm

Free participation in all activities.

Calligraphy workshop during a guided tour

The site is now divided into two distinct parts as a result of the degradation of the site in the 19th century in the course of which the central part disappeared, i.e. the main building that connected both “castles”. Nonetheless, it is still a remarkable site both for its size and the remains which are still visible and accessible. Contact Châteaux de Bruzac 24800 SAINT PIERRE DE CÔLE 06 11 40 55 37 [email protected]

11 7 Le Château de la Guionie

As far as we can go back in time, the history of the castle of La Guionie initially merges into the history of the Knights Templar, who settled in the parish of Lempzours in 1137. Said to have been the house of the Commander of the order in the Périgord, the building passed into secular hands after the dissolution of the Templars in 1307. Enlarged and altered from the 14th to the 16th century, burnt down by the Protestants in 1569, La Guionie became at the beginning of the 17th century the fiefdom of the Siorac family, who began its reconstruction around 1660-1690 and gave it its current shape. Gradually reduced to the role of a simple farm in the 19th century and now being restored, the Châ- teau de La Guionie, which had never been accessible to the public, has been open to visitors since autumn 2020. PROGRAMME Guided tours time schedule: - Sunday May 30 - Saturday June 5 - Sunday June 6 Tour at 2.15pm in English Tour at 2:30 pm in French Reservation required: 06 60 80 67 28

Animation “Maquis camp” and conferences: • Saturday August 7: 9:30 am to 12:30 pm and 1:30 pm to 6:30 pm “The Maquis at La Guionie” Conference at 2:30 pm • Sunday August 8: 9:30 am-12:30 pm. and 1:30 pm-5 pm “ The Maquis at La Guionie” Conference at 2:30 pm

Prices for tours and activities:

Guided tour of the outdoors and indoors of Contact the Château de La Guionie (duration 60 to 90 mi- Château de La Guionie nutes): €6. Animation “The Maquis at La Guionie” 24800 Lempzours with a reconstructed 1944 Maquis camp, vehicles, 06 60 80 67 28 various workshops, conference: 7 euros ticket valid all [email protected] day. Combined ticket visit + Maquis animation: €11. Coordonnés GPS : 45.358350504061576, Free under 18. The collected funds are for the restora- 0.8170197613519667 tion of the castle

12 Le Château de La Marthonie 8

The origins of the Château de La Martho- nie date back to the 12th century, when a “hideout” stood on the site which defended the border between the Limousin and the Périgord. This primitive fortress thus controled, at the ford on the river Côle, the ways leading from Thiviers to Nontron and from Limoges to Brantôme. The castle then also secured the Priory and the village which has been built around it. During the Hundred Years War, the castle was taken and burnt down by the English, who occupied the village from 1394 to 1404. The castle was rebuilt in the 15th century and completed at the beginning of the 16th century by Mondot de la Marthonie, first president of the- Par liament of Bordeaux, adviser to the Regent Louise of Savoy (mother of King Francis I who went to war in PROGRAMME Italy). From Monday May 31 to Friday June 11 at 3 pm (ex- In the 17th century, a wing as well as the mo- cept on weekends) numental staircase with straight ramps were added • Guided tours Fee: €3.50 to the castle. By marriage, the castle passed to the - Free for children under 12 Beynac family in 1691, then to the Beaumont family Duration: 30 minutes in 1761. Advanced booking required After World War II, the castle, badly damaged, 5 people maximum per visit was restored by Marquis Pierre de Beaumont-Beynac, its current owner, who won the “endangered master- Guided tours of the Château de La Marthonie pieces” prize in 1968. The eastern façade of the Châ- include: teau de La Marthonie is currently being restored. • The outside architecture • The 17th century “grand salon” • The 17th century staircase • The lower rooms

Contact Office de Tourisme Périgord Limousin 19 rue du Château 24800 Saint Jean de Côle Tél : 05 53 62 14 15 E-mail : [email protected] Longitude : 0.83857655 Latitude : 45.4213245

13 9 Le Château de Nanthiat

The Château de Nanthiat is located in the Pé- rigord Vert. In the middle of the 15th century, the En- glish occupied the then fortress, soon to be driven out by the French. The large square tower dating from the 16th century with machicolation and topped with a slate roof as high as a church steeple and flanked by a turret is still the key feature of the castle. In the 17th century, there were major changes such as the piercing of large windows in the thick walls. The tower was damaged by a fire in October 1995. Following this tragedy, it remained abandoned until 2010, when it was decided to undertake its restoration that is still ongoing.

PROGRAMME

On Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays between May 29 and June 13: • from 10 am to 5 pm: tours of the art workshops, castle and wildlife park.

Prices: €4 per person; free for children under 10.

Picnic allowed inside and outside. On-site accommodation from €50 to €100/night.

Contact Château de Nanthiat Le bourg 24800 Nanthiat LEROY Sylvie 06 82 44 57 00 HENRY Thierry 06 43 22 71 78 [email protected] sylvie-leroy.com latitude 45° 24’29’’ Nord longitude 00° 59’08’’ Est

14 Jardin d'Hélys - Oeuvre 10 Domaine des Gissoux The garden of Hélys-Œuvre, from 1831 to 2031, a story full of future promise! Come and admire an open and evolving work by visiting the garden and the property dating from the beginning of the 19th century and transformed into a 12-hectare artistic creation garden workshop! The Domaine des Gissoux, located in Saint-Médard-d’Excideuil, comprises a park and a mansion dating from the beginning of the 19th century. It follows the sharing of a seigneurial estate sold as a national property during the French Revo- lution. For two centuries, it had different functions such as a stately home, a housewife school created after the war in the 1950s, an annex to the agricultural school of Périgueux before turning into abandoned arable land. In 1995, a family of artists bought this estate from the Dordogne General Council and turned it PROGRAMME into a 120,000 square metres “artistic creation garden Every day from May 29 to June 13 from 3 pm to 7 pm: workshop”. • Self-guided tour with map • Guided walk at 3 pm (registration required, 10 people max.) June 5 at 3 pm: • “Listen and see” storytelling walk with 10 storytellers (registration required, 10 people max.)

June 5 at 5 pm: • Theatrical performance of the “Astra” company on the terrace of the mansion June 3, 5 and 10 from 10 am to 6 pm: • “Art Market”: 10 artists sell their works June 4, 5 and 6 from 10 am to 6 pm: • “Rendez-vous aux jardins” - National Days with Paul Rey, comic book author who will present a book on 12 “Remarkable Gardens” in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine, published by the Ecole Européenne Supérieure de l’Image of Angoulême and the Contact DRAC Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Alain et Monique Piot-Reboul Le jardin d’Hélys-Oeuvre June 5, 6, 12 and 13 at 3 pm: Domaine des Gissoux • Open workshops: artistic performances, 24160 Saint Médard d’Excideuil readings, songs... (programme upon request) Coordonnées GPS : 45.34174, 1.07786 [email protected] June 6 at 3 pm: 05 53 52 78 78 • Renaissance music concert by the trio www.ppgm-alainpiotdimassimo.blogspot.ffr “Si ça vous chante”.

15 11 Le Château de Jumilhac

Located on the Périgord and Limousin border, Jumilhac already secured the transport of the local gold production in the Gaulish period. For centuries it was a highly coveted spot that attracted invaders such as Visigoths, Saracens and Vikings. It became a fortified castle in the Middle Ages when Richard the Lionheart and Philip-Augustus had an eye on it before it fell into the hands of the Black Prince and was taken back by the Constable du Gues- clin. Antoine Chapelle, ”maître de forges” (“ironmas- ter”), alchemist and an ardent supporter of Henry IV, transformed it into the “Black Pearl” of the Haut-Péri- gord with its pointed roofs and ridge caps displaying alchemical symbols after being made Count of Jumil- PROGRAMME hac. Every day from 10 am to 7 pm: His grandson, who was made a Marquis in (including May 29, 30 and 31) 1655, turned it into a ceremonial residence, adding • Guided tours of the Château (with free wings and sumptuous French terraced gardens in the access to the gardens) 17th century. Adults: €9.50, reduced: €7.50, children: €5.50 The castle was sold in 1811 in a bad state; the Jumil- • Historical and symbolic tours of the roofs hac family bought it back in 1927. Their descendants, with access to the watchtower, rampart walk who are still restoring the estate, will welcome you to and framework, upon reservation. “Châteaux en Fête” with an exceptional programme! Adults: €6.50, reduced: €5, children: €3.50

Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays at 5 pm: • Alchemical tours followed by the Jumilhac elixir (on reservation) Adults: €18, reduced: €15, children: €12

Tuesdays at 9:30 pm: • Night torchlight tours with guides wearing medieval clothes, candles, torches, music (on reservation) Adults: €14, reduced: €11.50, children: €9

Saturday June 5 at 4 pm: • Opening of the “Salon des Thés”: lecture by Contact Mr. Emile Auté, producer of French Château de Jumilhac organic teas; tastings and tea planting in the Place du Château 24630 garden. JUMILHAC-LE-GRAND 06.09.61.78.40 et 06.82.09.65.83 Monday July 26: 05.53.52.42.97 • Madame Butterfly, opera by Puccini [email protected] www.chateaudejumilhac.com Friday August 27: • “Bel Canto” dinner.

16 Le Château de Châlus-Chabrol 12

The Château de Châlus-Chabrol dates from the 11th century, it is known as the place where the King of England and Duke of Aquitaine, Richard the Lionheart, was fatally wounded by a crossbow bolt shot by Pierre Basile. Richard died on April 6, 1199, in the arms of his mother, Eleanor of Aquitaine, by the fireplace in the great aula. His remains now rest in the church formerly called Notre-Dame du Haut-Châlus.

PROGRAMME

Self-guided tours every day from 10 am to 7 pm from April 1 to October 30 Fee: €6 per adult and free for children under 12.

Sunday May 9, 2021: • Spring and Autumn Equinox - 4th edition - spring 2021 The Spring and Autumn Equinox event takes place two times a year, the second weekend in May and the first October weekend. The 11th century circular dungeon and the Our one-day event is dedicated to plants and manor house from the 13th century were restored anything related to gardens in general. and modernised four centuries later. However, some medieval vestiges remain that help us to understand • Piano concert at 5 pm the castle’s history. Sunday September 12, 2021: • Ceremony to “leave your own trace” (In rmembrance of September 8, 1157, the date of birth of Richard the Lionheart in Oxford).

Like kings YOU can also make history! Be part of it and leave your own trace... As you now know, Richard the Lionheart is buried in the castle’s chapel. One day, even in a distant future, someone may find your marks in the château. To this end, you can leave a testimony of your own history or of the people you Contact love, be it a name, a photo... a little souvenir from you. Château de Châlus-Chabrol We will bury your personal legacy within the walls of 2 Chemin du Château, 87230 Chalus the château. 05 55 02 12 23 [email protected] www.chateau-chalus-chabrol.com

17 13 Le Château de Champniers

This castle is located in the north of the Péri- gord on the first foothills of the Massif Central, which why it is made of granite as opposed to many other castles. It dates from the 12th and 17th centuries and its square keep was built under the reign of Philip Au- gustus; this illustrates the long history of Champniers that goes back to the early 14th century. The Bruni were the then lords, which is confirmed by the- ge nealogy of the Brun de Montbrun family. Parts of the castle were most probably built by their ancestors.

In 1390, Philippe Brun was lord of Champniers. The lordship then went to the La Porte family that had been established in the area since the Middle Ages. The lands of Champniers were often inherited from PROGRAMME women; this is how it went to the du Lau family, who owned it for six generations before it passes to vis- Visits upon reservation from May 29 to June 13 count de Cornulier. His son sold it in 1886 to someone Free participation fee fully dedicated to the resto- from Nantes, who sold it again shortly afterwards ration of the tower to the Martinot family. A century later, after major Accommodation in B&Bs (advanced booking re- changes, it was sold to Ms Cohen in 2007. quired)

Details of visits: • Guided tour by the owner (45 min): the coat of arms attributed to the du Lau family, the vaulted cellars, the chapel, latrines through pictures (under renovation), the outdoors with “the canal” and the restoration project of the tower

• Free walk during which the visitor will have to solve a riddle about how “Périgord walnut cakes” are made

• Visit of the “Where the 12th and 21st centuries meet” area: - Dyeing processes from the Middle Ages to the 19th century: incl. the use of the spindle and spinning wheel for skein making and the creation of 100% na- Contact tural dream-catchers. Château de Champniers 5 place de la mairie - Special effects: find out what’s going on behind your 24360 Champniers et Reilhac screens, by NelleFX 06 37 64 10 19 [email protected] - Exhibition/sale of potteries by a local artist. coordonnées GPS : 45.67256, 0.73045

18 La Tour du Château de Piégut 14

On one of the heights of Piégut, perhaps at the location of a Gallo-Roman oppidum commanding the old Roman road, a watchtower made out of wood was built for the viscount of Limoges.

This was replaced in the 12th century by a stone defence tower (keep), around which, over time, a fortified castle has been built, surrounded by walls flanked by 7 circular towers.

The surrounding wall and the castle no longer exist, only a few walls are still standing, as well as the keep of remarkable proportions twenty-three meters high and seven meters in diameter: the Tower of Pié- gut. PROGRAMME • Saturday June 5 at 4 pm: guided tour of walls of the tower (about 1h30). Free participation

Contact Mairie de Piégut-Pluviers 05 53 56 40 22 BIT de Piégut-Pluviers 05 53 60 74 75 [email protected]

19 15 Le Château le Verdoyer

Although the date of construction is still unknown to this day, research allowed us to find dates of acts of sale, the oldest of which is from 1459 between a nobleman named Joubert Flamench, Lord of Bruzac, and the monastery of the parish of Villars. However, 1530 is when Château le Verdoyer became property of the Camain family, a wealthy family from Bordeaux, some of whose members were members of the then Parliament. The family remained owners of the château until the 1650s.

PROGRAMME •“Châteaux en Fête” special menu for 20 € without drinks.

It should be noted that a member of this fa- Available from Thursday June 10 to Sunday June 13 mily, Thibaud, married Eléonore Eyquem de Mon- for dinner for lunch on June 13. taigne, sister of the writer Michel de Montaigne in 1589, and we can therefore assume that the writer Menus available at: stayed at the castle. verdoyer.fr/articles-regions/chateaux-en-fete-2021 After many changes of ownership over a hundred years, the Ausems family finally acquired the estate in 1986 and turned it into a quality tourist facility, including a restaurant in the main room and a terrace overlooking one of the countless peaceful ponds of our beautiful Périgord.

Contact Château le Verdoyer 24470 CHAMPS-ROMAIN 05 53 56 94 64 www.verdoyer.fr [email protected]

20 Le Château de Nontron 16

It is a large 18th century slate roofed mansion with a rectangular floor plan and an attic and located on vaulted rooms from the 8th century. The façade includes a central frontispiece slightly protruding from the building and delimited by massive splayed pilas- ters supporting a triangular pediment, the centre of which bears a cartouche with the letter M that stands for the Mazerat family. Etching by Jules de Verneilh The Château has more than 50 tall arched windows, with imposts and frames. The “Mansart” The Château de Nontron usually hosts the Pôle slated roof is alternately open with large rectangu- Expérimental Métiers d’Art (PEMA), which presents lar dormers and bull’s eye windows. The terrace co- thematic exhibitions. These exhibitions highlight ver of the south-east annex is in the Italian style and contemporary creations usingt ancestral skills. In includes a balustrade. The main building has kept its tribute to the cutlery tradition of the city, the castle grand staircase and its original distribution of large in- also houses a collection of about one hundred art and terconnecting lounges opening to the gardens. It has regional knives. However, renovations start this year 18th century Versailles-style and herringbone parquet and will end at the end of 2022, forcing the castle to floorings. close its doors. Therefore, the PEMA offers a conference on the history and future of the castle.

PROGRAMME Friday June 11 at 6 pm, Nontron auditorium, place Paul Bert: • Conference “History and future of the castle of Nontron” Speakers: GRHIN (Historical Research Group of the Nontron Area) and Atelier RK (architects’ firm). • 6 pm-7pm: presentation of the history of the castle and the fortified town by the GRHIN (Speakers: M. Affagard, M. Poupeau and M. Jarry). • 7 pm-7.45pm: gourmet break and sweets (if the health situation allows it). • 7:45 pm - 8:45 pm: presentation of the castle renovation project by Atelier RK, architects’ firm in charge of the renovation.

Contact Free participation - Reservation by email at Pôle expérimental des Métiers d’Art de Nontron et du Périgord-Limousin [email protected] 05 53 60 74 17 or by phone: 05.53.60.74.17 [email protected] Access for visitors with disabilities

21 17 Le Château de Varaignes

The Château de Varaignes, which perfectly illustrates the architecture of the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries, is best known for its extremely decorated façade and its flamboyant Gothic door long -disap peared but recently found in the United States. An archaeological study carried out in 2020 provided a better understanding of its construction stages. A very ambitious project at the time, inspired by the great Italian and French models of the Renaissance and led by Jean Pérusse des Cars. Two pre-existing residential towers were then connected by three wings and a wooden gallery, which can be accessed through a spiral staircase tower. The ostentatious signs of the lord’s power are everywhere to be seen: machicolations, arrow splits, coats of arms, painted decora- tions... The famous Gothic door was undoubtedly the jewel of the construction. PROGRAMME Unfortunately, the door’s ma- Tuesday June 8 gnificence aroused envy and it was stolen in an undercover • 6.30 pm: concert in the courtyard of the cast- action in 1928. It is said to have le “Un duo original au féminin”, from Vivaldi to Mor- been stolen or bought by a rich ricone by the duo Stravagante with Laure VOLPATO American... Gone forever. (cello) and Basha SLAVINSKA (accordion). So it seemed… Almost a century later it was found in Gloucester, • 8 pm: cocktail reception near Boston... Today you - rea- der, visitor or spectator - can • 9 pm: video mapping about the history of bring back this magnificent car- the “Traveling Door”: disappeared in 1928, the cast- ved door! Or, more exactly, buy le’s magnificent Gothic door was miraculously found back pieces of it (it had been dis- in 2014 near Boston. During Hermione de Rochefort’s mantled for transport) and help us rebuild it by ma- trip to Boston, a visit was organised to the Hammon king a donation to www.fondation-patrimoine.org/ castle-museum in Gloucester in order to “take it back” les-projets/portedu-chateaude-varaignes from the Americans! We will tell you the rest of the story and you might be one of its characters... Contact CPIE du Périgord-Limousin - Château communal Price: 24360 VARAIGNES Adults: €12 for the concert 05 53 56 23 66 Children up to 12: Free [email protected] Reservation required under 05 53 56 23 66 for: Office de Tourisme du Périgord Nontronnais • the concert and the cocktail 05 53 56 35 76 ou au 05 53 56 25 50 • accommodation in one of the three holiday BIT de Varaignes 05 53 56 35 76 cottages of the village of Varaignes: [email protected] €15 per night and per person

22 Le Château du Logis 18

The Château du Logis was built at the very end of the 19th century by Mr. Jean Grégoire Dolezon, PROGRAMME owner of a Parisian novelty store. It was built on the • Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 June: remains of the house of a ”Maître de forges” and de- -From 10 am to 6 pm: signed as a straightforward Neo-Renaissance stately home. Arboretum initiation journey Its history is closely linked to that of the iron Trees are omnipresent in our lives, in our landscapes, and steel industry, and to the history of the forges of on roadsides or in the heart of cities and sometimes the Bandiat valley. The remains of one of the most we tend to take them for granted. Yet, since the important forges in the area, which supplied cannons dawn of time they have had a special place in all ci- for the French Royal Navy in the 18th century, are still vilisations as evidenced by their many symbolic re- visible. presentations - from the almond tree which symbo- lises rebirth with its early blossoming or the fig tree that represents fertility to Yggdrasil, the world-tree of Scandinavian mythology that connects the various parts of the universe. The arboretum provides a botanical journey that will reveal the mythological and therefore spiritual nature of our connection with trees. You will also discover the poetic dimension of your “Guardian Angel”. Price: €5 per person.

-From 3.30 pm to 5 pm:

Conferences: “Of Foxes and Men” Reynard the Fox owes his name to the famous medieval novel which portrays him as the main character of many popular tales. Mischievous and cunning, complex and polymorphous, ranging from the good devil avenging wrongdoings to the lustful, rogue and debauched demon, he embodies the intelligent cunning associated with the art of elocution. On this occasion, he will be invited to the Château as an am- bassador of our native fauna, which we often have difficulty living with. Speaker: Carine Gresse - foun- ding president of the association “Le Clos des Renar- dises” Free participation fee. Contact Le Château du Logis • Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 June 24300 JAVERLHAC-ET-LA-CHAPELLE-SAINT-ROBERT Outdoor concert as part of the “European Archaeo- 06 66 64 28 52 logy Days”. [email protected] www.lechateaudulogis.com • Possibility of accommodation in the castle for 10 to fb.me/lechateaudulogis 12 people.

23 19 Le Château de Connezac

The castle is close to a Romanesque church with a wall-belfry and it is surrounded by a vast en- closure that has kept one of its defensive turrets with machicolations. It was redesigned in the 17th century and has two main buildings set at a right angle and framed by three pavilions. To the south, terraces open over a beautiful panorama of soft hills. Attested in 1464, the castle was owned by the Maulmont family, then by the Conan family. Alexis, the last of the Conans, knight of Saint Louis, was an officer in the King’s regiment; he died without male descendants on September 20, 1844. He left Conne- zac to his daughter Blanche. Over four generations Connezac will be passed on by women and will pass successively to the Galard de Bearn, Mauvezin, Mo- neys d’Ordières, Braquilanges and Lamberterie du Cros families. Les cuirs du Clédou (leather craft) In 1922, major restoration works were under- taken to save the castle, which had remained unin- Nathalie Pannetier works mostly from ve- habited since 1870 following the “Hautefaye drama”. getable tanned leather. The motto of the “Cuirs du The descendants are committed to preserving this Clédou” is to work in harmony with nature and the family heritage passed down from generation to ge- environment. She learned her skills at the renowned neration since 1284. French brand, Hermès, for 13 years. She creates bags, handbags, purses, belts, jewellery etc., 100% hand- made. She also personalizes all items and manufac- PROGRAMME tures on demand. Bags and belts are unique objects Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 May that will not be duplicated. from 10 am to 6 pm • Exhibition / sale of leather art crafts Maison Jollet

Contact Jimmy Martinez, skilled craftsman in saddle- Château de Connezac ry and leather goods, created his range of products 1 place du Château 24300 CONNEZAC and filed a patent for his brand “Jollet Atelier Φ”. Ca- 06 32 15 71 05 mille Hillière brings in his technical and equestrian [email protected] knowledge thereby fine-tuning the “Jollet Atelier Φ” creations. She also tests saddlery-harness products herself from a horse rider perspective. All articles are made in a traditional manner using old proven tech- niques. All leathers come exclusively from French tanneries. The company is committed to environ- mental protection and the current ecological issues. Thanks to its eco-responsible stance, the company was granted the “Eco-challenges” label in September 2019. They use eco-labelled products and make vege- table tanned leather their first choice.

24 Le Château de Beauvais 20

The Château de Beauvais looks over the village of Lussas from its hilltop. It is a vast building flanked by two large round towers, which have kept their covered rampart walks and defences. It is a fine example of archaic architecture in this part of the Périgord. The castle, listed as a historical monument, was built in the 16th century on top of an older building. Discover eight centuries of history in the heart of a vast hunting estate. The current owners, who are descendants of the successive builders and owners, will warmly welcome you.

PROGRAMME Saturday June 12 • 9:30 pm: Night torchlight tour. Upon reservation (maximum 20 people). Please call 06 20 31 32 49 Price: 10 € per person

Contact Château de Beauvais 24300 LUSSAS-ET-NONTRONNEAU Reservation : 06 20 31 32 49

25 21 Le Château de Bellussière

Located in the heart of the Périgord vert and built in the 11th century, its current configuration is the result of three major changes. Built on a hillside, Bellussière has the particularity of not having, at first glance, any defensive function. This is all the more intriguing as the neighbouring castles all have a dominant position, which better corresponds to their being feudal castles with a clear defensive purpose. One can therefore wonder about the reasons which prompted the builders of Bellussière to choose this location. Of course, the site has been occupied for a very long time, as is evidenced by the presence of a “cluzeau” (cave dwelling) and a Roman villa. But the castle itself gives us the most interesting clue: the oldest part (11th century) revolves around a so-called “square” tower, which, in fact, is not square. An in-depth analysis of the geometry of the tower shows that it was built on the basis of the fi- gures 3 and 4, which transpire from an unusual as- sembly of seven identical stones resulting in a hepta- gon (i.e., a polygon with seven sides).

PROGRAMME

From May 29 to June 13, 2021: • Free guided tour, 10 am-12 pm and 2 pm-6 pm

Wednesday June 2 at 6 pm and Wednesday June 9 at 6 pm: From this geometric arrangement it becomes • Concert by the children of the “Espérance clear that the architect had an in-depth knowledge Mareuillaise” string ensemble, conducted by of geometry that was very exceptional for the time. Marc ELYSEE. Free participation fee From there we can assume that the builders’ motiva- tion was unusual and mysterious. The secret of the Château de Bellussière still remains to be unveiled...

Contact Château de Bellussière 24340 RUDEAU-LADOSSE contact@bellussière.com

26 Le Château de Beaurecueil 22

Beaurecueil or Bonrecueil? The name of this Château that is located between Saint-Sulpice-de- Mareuil and Rudeau has changed over the centuries and through many tumultuous episodes. It has been alternatively good and beautiful. Today, Beaurecueil prevails on maps and GPS. However, it first appeared in an act of 1506 as Corneuil, which is the name of its lands. From 1539 to 1861, Bonrecueil was transformed into one of the most important forges in the Pé- rigord. It produced cannons, cannon balls and various armaments for the French Royal Navy as well as ba- sins for melting sugar cane in the French West Indies (a few remains planted with flowers still decorate the entrance to the castle). The history of Bonrecueuil or Beaurecueil took a more peaceful turn when it fell into the hands of the PROGRAMME Ribeyrol-Dusolier family, who converted the forge into a farm and drained the nearby pond in 1861. Saturday 29 May at 3 pm: An introduction to the history of the Château (by Jean-Noël Cuénod);

• Conference on Alcide Dusolier by the historian Bernard Lachaise, author A. Dusolier as a politician and a literary critic. • Reading of the “Tour du Périgord en 1900” by Eugène Le Roy (by Jean-Noël Cuénod) • Danse performance by Christine Zwingmann on the “Return of the witches” Heir to the estate, Alcide Dusolier spent most from the story written in prose and verse of his well-spent life between Paris and Bonrecueil. at Beaurecueil by Jean-Noël Cuénod (winner He was Deputy for Nontron and senator of the Dor- of the Renée-Vivien award in 2019). dogne. He participated very actively in the birth of • Exhibition of the works of Nelly Vranceanu, the Third Republic. He also played a prominent role “Châteaux en Périgord Vert”. in French literature. It was he who discovered, sup- ported and promoted the literary enfant prodige of the Périgord, Eugène Le Roy. Alcide Dusolier passed Contact away in his Château on May 10, 1918 at the age of 81. Domaine de Beaurecueil In 1965, Marcelle Bruder, a Swiss horse-riding 116, impasse de Beaurecueil, enthusiast, bought Beaurecueil and renovated the Corneuil-Saint-Sulpice-de-Mareuil stables and the main building. Today, the castle is still 24340 MAREUIL-EN-PERIGORD the property of the Cuénod-Bruder family. [email protected] Welcome to Beaurecueil, in this part of the Périgord 06 75 16 44 45 Vert, which Eugène Le Roy loved so much. Coordonnées GPS 45.47603239842618,0.5356611829269949

27 23 Le Repaire de la Vergne

In the small valley of the Nizonne, the Repaire (stronghold) de la Vergne was probably built in the 12th century, but its appearance has changed a lot over time and only the tower reminds us of what it looked like in the early days. During the Hundred Years War, it was a defensive watchtower occupied by a knight and a few armed men. It was under the authority of Les Bernar- dières that was part of the lordship of Mareuil. A building that would be extended many times over the centuries was added to the defensive tower possibly in the 14th century. The west wing as we know it today goes back to the end of the 18th century although the foundations show traces of the original medieval building. The north wing was rebuilt PROGRAMME after the demolition of the old building at the beginning of the 20th century. At the same time, the gate Saturday June 5: and the adjoining building were also demolished. • At 3 pm: Reading by Philippe MAZAUX Several farms were built on the stronghold’s from the association “La Tour de Duranus” estate. The dovecote, which already existed at the about the role of troubadours in medieval life beginning of the 15th century, has 1047 pigeonholes and more particularly at medieval wedding that are accessible with a swing ladder. This number ceremonies. tells us that the surface area of the estate must have With a musical illustration by François been around 400 hectares. COTTREEL, string instrument maker and musician.

Saturday June 12: • At 3 pm: Unique atmosphere on the northern terrace of Le Repaire, the Scottish bagpipes will resonate through the Nizonne valley below. Jean-Pierre FAURE is a member of the Scottish pipe band «Saor Alba Pipes & Drums» from Blair Drummond near Stirling.

Free of charge - upon reservation at 05 53 60 36 44 or by email: [email protected]

Contact Repaire de la Vergne 109 impasse de la Vergne Saint Sulpice de Mareuil 24340 MAREUIL EN PERIGORD 05 53 60 36 44 - [email protected]

28 Le Château de La Combe 24

PROGRAMME On Wednesdays and Saturdays from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm between May 29 and June 13

• Stone sculpture for children, from 5 years old (adults accepted upon availability). Sessions of approx. 30 minutes. children may keep their work. Children can also suggest their own project: a photo, a magazine, any personal wish…

• Price: €2, material provided and snack offered

This estate was originally the home of the Maillard family. On October 22, 1606, Isabelle de Beauville, Countess des Cars and Lady of the barony of Mareuil, promoted Jean de Maillard’s home to a noble house thereby authorising him to raise towers and build terraces and machicolations. The Maillard family owned the castle until 1961. The château changed hands several times since then and was even abandoned. In 1970 the Gury family bought it and restored it. Ms Edmonde Gury was Mayor of Puyrenier About the sculptor : from 1977 to 2008 and dean of mayors of France for many years. In January 2011, the Turnani family fell in After 10 years of restoration of historical mo- love with the place and moved in with a view to ope- numents, Jean-François Duchatelle joined Jean Car- ning guest rooms. dot’s studio at the Beaux-Arts in Paris. His artistic career began with many exhibitions. He then opened his own workshop to the public in the wooded park of the Château de la Rochette (Seine-et-Marne, near Pa- ris). After 20 years spent in the Paris area, Jean-Fran- çois and his family decided to live a simpler life close to nature in the Dordogne. They settled down in the green less than 2 kilometres from the Château de la Combe, in the Ni- zonne valley. The workshop is open to the public.

Contact Château de la Combe Puyrenier 24340 MAREUIL EN PÉRIGORD 05 53 60 91 43

29 25 Le Château d'Aucors

Aucors castle dominates the pastures of the Nizonne valley from its magnificent location on top of a steep cliff. The d’Aucorn family, first mentioned in the 12th century, lived there followed by other li- neages including the Rochechouarts, who transformed Aucors into a royal fortress. Only a few stone blocks on the west side remain from it some of which were reused in later constructions. In the 13th century, it seems that the current estate was built on a pre-existing stronghold that overlooked the valley to the south. It was rebuilt in the 15th century and improved at the beginning of the 16th century with the addition of a hexagonal staircase tower on the courtyard side. In 1577, François de Conan, Lord of Conne- zac, acquired the land for his youngest son, Jean, who rebuilt the castle in 1617. The south façade dates from this period with PROGRAMME its two corner turrets. His son Thomas rebuilt the Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 May: gate to the courtyard, which bears the date 1639 and • Art crafts exhibition/sale “Earth and stone” the coats of arms of the Conan and the Maillard fa- from 10 am to 6 pm milies displaying his alliance with Catherine de Mail- • Demonstration of stone cutting by Philippe lard in 1636. The Conan d’Aucors branch died out in Stemmelen 1821 with Henri, colonel of cavalry, a former “Émigré” • Food-truck with shelter from (i.e., nobles who fled the French Revolution), who be- 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm queathed the estate to one of his nephews, Thibault de Maillard La Combe, whose daughter married Au- Philippe and Sabine Stemmelen guste Dupin de Saint-Cyr. They are the ancestors of Philippe is a sculptor on clay, wood, stone and a moul- the current owners. ding specialist. He has taken part in various symposia, exhibitions and shows. Sabine is a ceramist. She loves circular shapes, light and colour, and creates decorative objects in earthenware, stoneware, porcelain and Egyptian clay. Manue Moine She is a self-taught sculptor. In 2012 she met Bon Su- ter and Donald Gibson in New Zealand, from whom she has learnt a lot. She uses her technical know-how as a stonemason for her sculptures and other artistic creations. Tina Cook Initiated by her mother in 1993 to the making of Contact dolls with self-hardening clay, she pursued her ar- Château d’Aucors tistic career as an autodidact with the modelling of Beaussac stoneware, earthenware and other clays to create 24340 MAREUIL EN PÉRIGORD decorative, fantasy and magical objects as well as useful Raku ware.

30 Le Château de Lasteyrie 26

The château was built around 1850 by Louise Jacqueline Anne de Lestrade de la Cousse, from Cou- laures, widow of Fortuné Charles Ernest de Lasteyrie, Marquis du Saillant. It is located in a magnificent park of seven hectares on the top of a wooded hill near La Rochebeaucourt-et-Argentine.

Other noble families from the region have lived there, notably the Pindray d’Ambelle, before it became the property of Pierre Grangier, businessman and senator for the département Deux-Sèvres. The château, which was then a simple manor house, was extended by adding towers at the end of the 1920s. PROGRAMME

June 3rd to 6th from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free admission • “Nature & Matières” exhibition: Stroll in the park of the Château and discover at lei- sure the amazing work of seven artists. Their creations will surprise you as you wander around the to- piaries, the waterlily pond and other wooded areas. This remarkable estate, created in the mid-nineteen- th century and improved over the years, will introduce you to the art of gardens and to creations made from natural materials such as clays, minerals and metals.

• Catherine Blondin, animal ceramist • Pierre Carcauzon, stone sculptor • Tristan Chambaud-Héraud, ceramist using Anagama kiln • Nathalie Chossec, painter The park contains a fine collection of conifers, • Emmanuel de Cockborne, metal sculptor including a giant fir and centuries-old cedars, with • Loic Gaignard, ceramist using terra sigillata many native and exotic tree species as well as topia- • Fanny Garrigue, metal sculptor ries, a rose garden and a Japanese garden. With its clear focus on nature, this estate is the ideal setting Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th of June for artists who express themselves using nature’s • Archery (from 6 years of age) organised in materials and colours. partnership with the “Parc Naturel Regional du Périgord Limousin”

Contact €7 per person (pre-booking required) Château de Lasteyrie 2 sessions: 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. 24340 La-Rochebeaucourt- et-Argentine To book, please contact the Perigord Limousin Park 05 53 56 44 60 office at 05 53 55 36 00. Payment directly with the [email protected] instructor at the start of each session. Instagram : @chateaudelasteyrie

31 27 Le Château de Mareuil

Seat of one of the four baronies of the Périgord – along with Beynac, Biron and Bourdeilles – the castle of Mareuil is a lowland castle built in the 15th century on the site of a medieval stronghold destroyed during the Hundred Years’ War. Besides a Flamboyant Gothic chapel, the castle also has a room dedicated to the French Premier Empire in which furniture and documents tell the story of Marshal Lannes, Duke of Montebello (1769-1809), ancestor of the present owners.

PROGRAMME • From May 29 to June 13, Monday to Friday: - - Visits to the castle with about 30 games for children. €7 per person; €7 for 8–17-year-olds; free for children under 7.

• During the weekends of May 29/30, June 5/6 and June 12/13: - Sword and shield fighting shows by the “Wakinyan France” club and initiation to “Modern Sword fighting” (MSF). 7 medieval towers including 5 in very good condition, a square keep and underground rooms - Crafts exhibition and initiation to archery from the Middle Ages, 2 wings built right up against for all by the association the 15th century keep, 5 furnished rooms (Louis XIII, “Periguers per semper”. Regency, Empire ...) and several master paintings. Tours also include a course of about 30 games and Weekend prices: €8 per person; €4 for 8-17-year-olds; medieval clothing for children and adults. The castle Free for children under 7. is open from early June until late September. Opening hours:

from 10 am to 1 pm and from 2 pm to 5 pm from Mon- day to Saturday. Open on Sundays from 2 pm to 5 pm.

Contact Château de Mareuil 24340 MAREUIL EN PÉRIGORD 05 53 60 46 18 [email protected]

32 Le Château de Fongrenon 28

Former home to the Achard and Dejean de Jovelle families, then to the Joussains, this classic-era castle is set on a rocky promontory some 144 metres high and underwent major restoration works. It is built on a cliff pierced with quarries and surrounded by a moat. It features heavily restored classical pavilions. The courtyard façade, facing south, consists of a square storey and an attic. Its long- sides flat-tile roof is embellished with dormers. This building is flanked to the west by a pavilion whose machicolation corbels reminds of a medieval defence tower, and to the east by another large building that also consists of a square storey and an attic.

PROGRAMME Saturday June 12: • noon: lunch under the lime trees of the castle’s courtyard with products from local producers. Free participation.

Sunday June 13: • 10 am and 2 pm: guided tour of the quarries in which the stained-glass windows of the Chartres cathedral were once stored. The quarries are located under the castle. Visits upon reservation only (limited places). Please call 06 13 80 08 49 or email: [email protected]. Free wine tasting in the castle’s courtyard at the end of the tour.

Contact Château de Fongrenon 24320 LA TOUR BLANCHE - CERCLES Tel : 06 13 80 08 49 Mail : [email protected] GPS : 45.373861, 0.453443

33 29 Le Château de la Meyfrenie

La Meyfrenie is a fortified manor house first mentioned in the 13th century. The oldest visible elements date from the middle of the 15th century. Since then, the home has conti- nuously been rearranged to match the tastes of the times and of its successive owners. After a fire in 1820, the estate underwent structural changes that didn’t alter its appearance. In 1830, the owner, Jean Antoine Pasquy Du- cluseau, who was a humanist doctor inspired by the physiocrats of the 18th century, replaced the old far- mhouse that was integrated into the main building with a new, carefully designed building complex for rational and diversified agriculture. Over the last thirty years, various works and projects contributed to making La Meyfrenie a place for agricultural benchmarking that focuses on healthy PROGRAMME living and sustainable development. La Meyfrenie, the story of the making of a benchmark farm Saturday May 29: • 3:00 pm: presentation of the history, developments and projects by Inès and Alain de La Ville

• 4 pm: complete tour of the premises with those involved: market gardeners, aromatic and medicinal plant producers, shops, therapists, architects. Free access to the garden.

• 5 pm: freshly baked bread and home-made fruit juices.

Free participation fee. Your contributions are intended for the association that manages the projects.

Contact Château de la Meyfrenie 24320 VERTEILLAC Famille de La Ville [email protected]

34 Le Château de Fayolle 30

The Château de Fayolle, located 5 km from Ri- bérac, was built after the marriage between François de Monteuil, Lord of La Renaudie (southwest of Ville- toureix) and Catherine de Fayolle de Tocane in 1665.

There is another Château de Fayolle in Tocane, home of the Marquis de Fayolle, whose title was granted by Louis XV in 1725. The Monteil family owned the estate for 275 years until 1939.

PROGRAMME Sunday May 30 - 1 pm • Gourmet Lunch “Mother’s Day” €35 per person (upon reservation)

Saturday June 5 - 7 pm • Barbecue, party in the park with music and dance. €35 per person (upon reservation)

Sunday June 6 - 2 pm and 4 pm • Historical visit of the castle and the chapel - €5 per person • Afternoon tea in the garden €10 per person (upon reservation) • Small crafts and flea market

Saturday June 12 - 7 pm • Gourmet dinner with music €40 per person (upon reservation)

Sunday June 13 - 2 pm and 4 pm • Historical visit of the Castle and the chapel Contact - €5 per person Château de Fayolle • Afternoon tea in the garden Domaine de Fayolle, €10 per person (upon reservation) 24600 VILLETOUREIX • Small crafts and flea market [email protected] Tel: 06 42 51 82 11 Reservations: [email protected] GPS : Lat: 45.28 Lng: 0.34 or 06 42 51 82 11

35 31 Le Château de Saint-Aulaye

Built by the lords of Saint-Aulaye in the 10th and 11th centuries, the medieval castle is located on PROGRAMME a promontory overlooking the Dronne, the church, the port district and the Double forest to the sou- • Saturday June 5 th. The western tower is the only visible vestige of - Starting at 8 am: local producers and crafts the building, which fell into ruin over time before market being restored in 1887 and the following years in the - 10 am to 12 pm: opening of the Pastel neo-Renaissance style. The castle was bought by the Museum and the Cognac Museum (tasting Municipality in 1954 and housed the Post Office for a possible on site) few years before becoming the Town Hall. - From 10 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:30 pm to 5 pm: meeting with the painters Dana M. and APé (above the Tourist Office in front of the market) - 11 am: introduction to fighting with foam swords and shields for children (behind the castle) - 11 am: visit of the castle and the Bastide - 12 noon: lunch by the bread oven - 2 pm to 3:30 pm: meeting with pastel painters and demonstration at the Pastel Museum - From 2 pm to 6 pm: introduction to fighting with foam swords and shields for children and medieval armoured fight show (behind the castle)

• Sunday June 6 - 10 am to 12 pm: opening of the Pastel Museum and the Cognac Museum (tasting possible on site) - 10:30 am: “Discovering Pastel” workshop for children from 6 years of age upon reservation (associations’ room) - 11 am: visit of the castle and the Bastide - 2 pm to 3:30 pm: meeting with pastel painters and demonstration at the Pastel Museum - 3:45 pm: Falconry show

Contact Sale of drinks and crepes all afternoon on both days. Château de Saint-Aulaye 9 Rue du Docteur Lacroix 24410 SAINT-AULAYE-PUYMANGOU 05 53 90 81 33 [email protected] Facebook : Mairie de Saint Aulaye Puymangou

36 Le Domaine de la Vallade 32

Located in a stunning natural setting of the Périgord vert over 20-hectare of green, the estate of La Vallade, former hunting residence of the Lords of Saint-Aulaye, is dominated by an “imperial pavilion” from the beginning of the 17th century.

The estate is set in a narrow valley bordered by meadows, woods, springs and limestone hillsides offering a unique panorama over the Dronne valley.

The park is home to centuries-old oaks, walnut trees (AOC du Périgord – certified geographic in- PROGRAMME dication), a young truffle farm made from holm oaks, pubescent oaks, cerris oaks and hornbeams, as well Saturday June 5: as a vineyard (in the making, with Merlot, Syrah and • Flea market from 10 am to 6 pm Chardonnay varietals). Sunday June 6: • At 11 am and 12 pm: wine tasting workshop directed by Florent Lagrenaudie, “Histoire de Cep”. The workshop, that lasts about 1 hour, focuses on wines by mixing oenology, tasting, viticulture, history and anec dotes from wine-growers. Everyone is welcome. Registration and reservation: 07 57 40 26 18, price for the workshop: €10 per person.

• Starting 12:30 pm: traditional catering in the reception hall of the estate; traditional lunch à la Périgord. Registration and reservation: 06 73 72 27 40, price for the lunch: € 20 per person.

• All day on Sunday: self-guided and free visit, with on-site exhibitors and local craftspeople

Contact Domaine de La Vallade 24 410 SAINT AULAYE-PUYMANGOU 06 73 72 27 40 [email protected] https://www.domainedelavallade.com Coordonnées GPS : 45.204952, 0.130882

37 Saturday May Sunday May Château de Beaurecueil (22) Château des Sénéchaux (1) Château de la Meyfrenie (29) Château de la Guionie (7) Château de Jumilhac (11) Château de Fayolle (30) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château d’Aucors (25) Château de Connezac (19) Château de Nanthiat (9) The following castles are open for visitors throughout the event: Château de Bellussière (21) château de Bourdeilles, château de Puyguilhem (5), château de Nanthiat (9), château de Jumilhac (11), château de Châlus-Chabrol (12), château de Champniers (13), château de Mareuil (27). Monday Tuesday ednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday May June st June June June June June Château de Bellussière (21) Domaine de Montplaisir (4) Château de Jumilhac (11) Château des Sénéchaux (1) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château de Fayolle (30) Château de La Marthonie (8) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château de Mareuil (27) Château de Jumilhac (11) Jardin d’Hélys (10) Château de la Guionie (7) Château de Nanthiat (9) Château de la Cote (2) Château de Saint Aulaye (31) Tour du Château de Piégut (14) Repaire de la Vergne (23) Château de Puyguilhem (5) Château de Lasteyrie (26) Jardin d’Hélys (10) Château de Bellussière (21) Domaine de la Vallade (32)

Monday Tuesday ednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday June June June June June June June Château de Varaignes (17) Château de Bellussière (21) Domaine de Montplaisir (4) Domaine de Montplaisir (4) Château de Fongrenon (28) Château des Sénéchaux (1) Château de Mareuil (27) Château de Fayolle (30) Château de La Marthonie (8) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château de Jumilhac (11) Jardin d’Hélys (10) Château de Nontron (16) Château de Beauvais (20) Château la Hierce (3) Château le Verdoyer (15) Château de Nanthiat (9) Château de la Cote (2) Repaire de la Vergne (23) Château du Logis (18) Château de Jumilhac (11) Jardin d’Hélys (10) Château de Bellussière (21) Château le Verdoyer (15) 38 Saturday May Sunday May Château de Beaurecueil (22) Château des Sénéchaux (1) Château de la Meyfrenie (29) Château de la Guionie (7) Château de Jumilhac (11) Château de Fayolle (30) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château d’Aucors (25) Château de Connezac (19) Château de Nanthiat (9) The following castles are open for visitors throughout the event: Château de Bellussière (21) château de Bourdeilles, château de Puyguilhem (5), château de Nanthiat (9), château de Jumilhac (11), château de Châlus-Chabrol (12), château de Champniers (13), château de Mareuil (27). Monday Tuesday ednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday May June st June June June June June Château de Bellussière (21) Domaine de Montplaisir (4) Château de Jumilhac (11) Château des Sénéchaux (1) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château de Fayolle (30) Château de La Marthonie (8) Châteaux de Bruzac (6) Château de Mareuil (27) Château de Jumilhac (11) Jardin d’Hélys (10) Château de la Guionie (7) Château de Nanthiat (9) Château de la Cote (2) Château de Saint Aulaye (31) Tour du Château de Piégut (14) Repaire de la Vergne (23) Château de Puyguilhem (5) Château de Lasteyrie (26) Jardin d’Hélys (10) Château de Bellussière (21) Domaine de la Vallade (32)

32 31

1 2 3 4 5 6 13 12 7 8 9 17 14 10 ' P 11 P 12 18 13 14 16 15 15 16 19 20 17 24 11 18 21 19 23 22 G 20 26 25 21 M 5 22 P 23 27 24 4 8 9 25 ’ 26 28 27 P 6 28 3 29 29 7 30 10 31 1 32 E 30 2 R

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Suggestions for sightseeing tours

• 1st tour: «From Bourdeilles to Saint-Médard-d´Excideuil» (1 to 10 on the map)

You will undoubtedly be captivated by the two imposing castles of Bourdeilles, seat of the old barony, and by the Château des Sénéchaux. All three watch over the medieval village crossed by the Dronne. Not far from there, the round and ivy-covered towers of the Hotel *** - Restaurant of the Château de la Côte can be seen between the green hills of Biras. Brantôme, the «Venice of the Périgord», has fine examples of Renaissance architecture such as the very elegant Château de la Hierce, hidden on the left bank of the Dronne. The Domaine de Montplaisir in Condat-sur-Trin- cou, built on the banks of the Côle, will be hosting concerts. The superb Château de Puyguilhem, one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in the Périgord, will reveal all of its treasures on the occasion of an exhibition on the Rococo imaginary. In Saint- Pierre-de-Côle, follow the guide (in medieval attire!) to the châteaux of Bruzac and learn about the history of the “twin lordships”. A little further, in Lempzours, the château of La Guionie, famous for having been the home of the Commander of the Knights Templar in the Périgord, welcomes you for guided tours. The Château de la Marthonie, located in the heart of the charming village of Saint-Jean-de-Côle, is open to visitors. The Château de Nanthiat has open art workshops and tours of the estate and the wildlife park. The Domaine des Gissoux in Saint-Médard-d´Excideuil consists of a mansion and the Jardin d’Hélys, a vast 12-hectare art garden-workshop!

• 2nd tour: “the Nontronnais-Limousin area” (11 to 18 on the map)

The history of the Château du Logis is closely linked to the old iron industry in the Bandiat valley. This visit will be the opportunity to take an initiatory journey through the arboretum or to attend a conference on Master Fox. The Château de Varaignes will take you to a journey through the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. It will host a concert followed by a “dîner apéritif” and projection mapping on the castle facade. The Château de Champniers, which is built of granite (as opposed to other local castles), hosts guided and thematic tours in a relaxed atmosphere. Don’t miss the guided tour of the round tower of the castle of Piégut, a dungeon of remarkable proportions (23 metres high and 7 metres wide). The castle of Nontron is where the Pôle expérimental des Métiers d’Art (the Experimental Centre for Art Pro- fessionals) has its headquarters. The castle is currently undergoing major renovation works to be completed by the end of 2022. It hosts conferences on its history and on the renovation project. The Château Le Verdoyer in Champs-Romain, has been transformed into a quality tourist facility. Try its special «Châteaux en Fête» menu and its «Mother’s Day» lunch and a dinner in a festive musical atmosphere. The majestic Château de Jumilhac has a long history. It fell into the hands of the English during the Hundred Years War before being taken back by du Guesclin’s troops. 16th century fairy tale roofs with alchemical symbols make it a must see! You may want to top your tour with the castle of Châlus-Chabrol, where Richard the Lionheart was mortally wounded.

42 • 3rd circuit: “Around Mareuill» (19 to 27 on the map)

The Château de Mareuil is one of the four baronies of the Périgord. It is a lowland castle rebuilt on the site of an old stronghold. Come and see its flamboyant Gothic style chapel and its exhibition of Premier Empire memorabilia retracing the history of the Marshal Lannes, Duke of Monte- bello (1769-1809), ancestor of the current owners. Medieval sword and shield fights take place in the former moat. Built around 1850 in the middle of a seven-hectare park, the Châ- teau of Lasteyrie hosts a joint exhibition by seven artists whose works are scattered across the park, as well as two archery workshops. High up on a cliff, the solitary Château d’Aucors looks over the valley of the Nizonne. Its owners host a crafts exhibition and sale as well as a stone-cutting demonstration. A food-truck will be on site. The Château de la Combe organises stone sculpture workshops for kids (incl. free snacks). And what about a conference on the troubadours (with medieval music) or a Scottish bagpipe concert at Le Repaire de La Vergne? The Château de Beaurecueil built in 1506 hosts conferences as well as a dance performance and an exhibition. The Château de Bellussière is built around a square tower that is actually not… square! It is worth a visit in the company of a local children’s string ensemble. A night-time tour of the Château de Beauvais by torchlight will certainly be a magical experience. The Château de Connezac hosts a weekend exhibition and sale of art and crafts with a focus on leather creations.

• 4th circuit: “Around Ribérac» (28 to 32 on the map)

The Château de Fongrenon near La Tour-Blanche is built on a cliff that was used as a quarry in the days of old. «Châteaux en fête» is a unique opportunity to visit the quarries where the stained-glass windows of the cathedral of Chartres were stored. Come and enjoy a traditional lunch with local products in the shade of lime trees as well as a free wine tasting in the evening. The Château de la Meyfre- nie near Verteillac goes back to the 15th century but it has been transformed over time to ultimately become a model farm with its production for you to discover. The Château de Fayolle near Villetoureix invites you to gourmet lunches and dinners as well as a bbq in a musical atmosphere. It also hosts a small crafts market and a “brocante”. The Château de Saint-Aulaye, which is the Hôtel de Ville (townhall) is open to visitors for an exceptional weekend with a wide range of options such as tours of the castle and its “bastide”, the Pastel Museum and the Cognac Museum, workshops for children, medieval combat, falconry shows and concerts. The Domaine de la Vallade, former hunting residence of the Lords of Saint-Aulaye, is built on 20 hectares of land and dominated by a 17th century pavilion. It holds a wine tasting workshop and a lunch in the reception hall. It will also be the ideal set-up to exchange with local artists and artisans.

43 More places to discover!

The Périgord vert is full of wonderful castles but it has much more to offer! The most demanding history and heritage lovers will undoubtedly be satis- fied.

The impressive abbey of Brantôme, on the banks of the river Dronne, faces the insular part of this picturesque small city whose location between two arms of the river earned it the name of «Venice of the Périgord». Partly hidden behind the abbey’s majestic facade, a massive limestone cliff holds an unsuspec- ted treasure – a set of cave dwellings, including the famous Cave of the Last Judgment with its monumen- tal bas-reliefs. The sky-high Romanesque bell tower or campanile from the 11th century (one of the oldest in France!) is the landmark of this prestigious place of worship.

The cave of Villars happens to have the largest underground network in the Périgord. The cave has exceptional natural concretions as well as prehistoric wall paintings made over 19,000 years ago, including the famous «Petit Cheval Bleu” (little blue horse) and one of the rare representations of humans in prehistoric art. A didactic trail allows you to better understand the environment in which Cro-Magnon people used to live. A stop-over at the Cistercian Abbey of Boschaud, near Villars, is a must in order to experience the serenity of these venerable walls.

44 The villages of Mareuil en Périgord and La Rochebeaucourt-et-Argentine have a set of remarkable «cluzeaux» that will trigger your imagi- nation. They are man-made defensive cave shelters carved into the rock. Sarcophagi, grain silos, water reservoirs and troughs are examples of this omnipresent prehistoric legacy that is still full of secrets...

Saint-Jean de-Côle, listed as one of the «Most Beautiful Villages in France», has many stories to tell. The façades of its houses, its old bridge over the river Côle, its church and its castle are all yours to explore.

A tour of the Romanesque churches of the Ri- bécarois (the area around Ribérac) holds many sur- prises in so far as the area has the highest density of domed churches in the Périgord, some of which are decorated with stunning frescoes.

Come and discover wildlife in a natural setting The Périgord vert is the place to be if you wish at the Parc Sauvage de La Tour Blanche. Its easily ac- to green. You will be spoiled for choice: the countless cessible walks make it possible to see all sorts of ani- trees, plants and flowers, the fountains and statues mals (farm animals, local forest animals and birds of along the alleys of the Jardins Tranquilles on the banks prey). of the river Dronne. Do visit the botanic garden of ALAIJE, its peat bog and patches of medicinal plants The millstone trail in Brantôme en Périgord; the garden of textile and in Saint-Crépin-de-Riche- dyeing plants and the hydraulic machines at Lud’eau mont combines nature and Vive in Varaignes or the terraces of the Jardin des Arts culture by retracing the in Nontron. little-known history of the extraction of millstones to grind grain. The discovery trails at the Plateau d’Argen- tine, on the western side of the Périgord-Limousin Re- gional Nature Park, are the perfect way to discover the exceptional variety of the local fauna and flora. They also lead to ancient quarries and to a charming hilltop hamlet and chapel. 45 The omnipresent nature in the Périgord vert is a vast playground with multiple possibilities. Sure land, on the water or in the air, you will choose the activity that looks like you. Hiking along the countless trails that crisscross the countryside is the perfect way to enjoy the smoo- th landscape and the exceptional richness of the fauna and flora, be it on foot, by mountain bike or even on horseback.

The Dordogne is the first French destination for recreational canoeing. The river Dronne lends itself particularly well to this sport – whether you’re in just for a few hours on its quiet waters or for long-distance descent between its sunlit banks. And don’t miss the water jousting every Friday evenings in July and Au- gust!

If rowing isn’t your thing, just make yourself Rivers and ponds are everywhere but some comfortable aboard a cruise boat in Brantôme and might prefer hill and rock climbing or will want to en- just enjoy the scenery in a relaxed atmosphere. On a joy the spectacular yet quiet beauty of the country- hot sunny day, you might to take a dip in the clear wa- side from up in the sky. ters of the river Dronne at Brantôme’s little beach!

46 Accomodation and food

The locals are very proud of their culinary traditions. The region is full of authentic products that will delight even demanding gourmets. Each season brings its share of joys and discoveries: foie gras of course, but also the famous Tuber melanosporum or black Périgord truffle, duck, walnut, chestnut, cèpe mushrooms, honey, goat cheese and much more. Traditional and festive markets are perfect occasions to discover all these delicious specialties. Special mention goes to the market of Piégut-Pluviers on Wednesday mornings – it is one of the largest in the whole département – and to the regulated truffle market that takes place in Brantôme en Périgord on Friday mornings from December to February.

Local chefs compete in ingenuity to design premium menus using products from our terroir. From the local café to starred restaurant, all you need to do is sit comfortably at a table to fully enjoy the gastronomic heritage of the Périgord.

In order to make its many visitors simply feel at home, tourist accommodation structures in the Pé- rigord vert are up to the task. Nothing is easier than going green in the heart of the countryside. The region has all types of accommodations and formulas. Countless hotels, guest rooms, lodgings and gîtes or campsites will perfectly match all possible require- ments and expectations. One thing is sure though: everyone will find the right match for their needs!