Discover The Dordogne Valley
For history lovers, the Dordogne valley welcomes you in the sumptuous scenery of the Périgord castles.
The Périgord Noir is also very rich in medieval vestiges, witness of the Hundred Years’ War, this border zone has many remarkably preserved castles. This is the case of the enemy castles of Beynac and Castelnaud, both imposing, facing each other and overlooking the valley, they preserve many historical treasures.
The Domaine Les Pastourels in the heart of the 1001 Châteaux valley will take you back to the Middle Ages with the châteaux of Beynac, Castelnaud-La-Chapelle, Montfort (private), Fénelon, Fayrac (private) and you will leap back to the Renaissance with a visit to the Château des Milandes. All these castles are less than 15 minutes away from the Domaine.
Beynac Castle
A 12th century fortified castle listed as a Historic Monument, overlooking the Dordogne, one of the best preserved and most renowned in the region.
Castelnaud Castle
Medieval fortress which houses the museum of war in the Middle Ages
Biron Castle
One of the 4 baronies of the Périgord, a site labelled "Major Site of Aquitaine
Fayrac Castle
The Château des Milandes
3 minutes by car and 20 minutes on foot from Les Pastourels campsite
The Château des Milandes is a reminder of the life of Josephine Baker, the famous French-American singer, who stayed there until the 1950s. It is very interesting to see what luxury looked like in the middle of the last century.
The children will love the falconry show. The show and the surrounding entertainment are of high quality.
Our little tip: Take the path opposite the campsite Les Pastourels (PR13) and follow the yellow markings to the château des Milandes. The hiking trail goes downhill to get there so the return is more difficult, avoid the heat as there is little shade on the trail.
Château de Beynac
15 minutes from Les Pastourels campsite
Perched on a huge rock, the Château de Beynac was built over several centuries. During the visit, you will be able to cross these different eras. From its tower you can admire the valley of the 5 castles. This castle will fascinate the older ones.
Several American films have been shot, including the latest Ridley Scott film with Matt Damon and Ben Affleck in March 2020, “The Last Duel”.
Our little tip: Beynac is our favourite castle, you will have a view on the Dordogne valley.
Château de Commarque
30 minutes from the campsite Les Pastourels
A family of enthusiasts has been restoring this castle for several years.
You will plunge, in a playful way, into the history of prehistory to today. This castle is really amazing, the visits are either guided in July and August or free with a booklet in 5 languages.
Our little tip: for those who like hiking and walking, take the opportunity to go for a nice walk around the castle, a very nice setting for a picnic.
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle
10 minutes from the campsite Les Pastourels
The castle of Castelnaud-La Chapelle is a wonderful reminder of the medieval period. In the heart of the Périgord Noir, the castle of Castelnaud, built on a rocky spur, offers a magnificent panorama over the Dordogne valley. Founded in the 12th century, it is a perfect example of medieval fortification. Today it houses an important collection of weapons and armour. On the bastion, the most powerful siege machines of the Middle Ages are reconstituted in attack position.
Children can dress up in period costumes, beautiful princess dresses and armour. You can then discover how people lived in those times. Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Our advice is to park at the bottom of the village and walk up to the castle, you will then start your visit with a very nice walk. Avoid doing it when it is too hot. The animations take place during all the big week-ends and during all the school holidays…
On the way back, you will pass by the Boulangerie Le Carrée to taste their delicious walnut square.
