The gardens of the Dordogne Valley: the perfect blend of beauty and ecological harmony. Out in the garden

Protecting the local biodiversity

Renowned for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty, the region boasts a tapestry of lush landscapes, meandering rivers and rolling hills that leave visitors in awe.

By the same token, the many beautiful cultivated gardens of the Dordogne Valley play their part in conserving the ecological balance of the local environment.

Nestled amidst picturesque landscapes and charming villages, these gardens provide a captivating blend of colors, scents and tranquility to enjoy the blossoms of spring, the fragrance of summer or the intensity of autumn.

From formal gardens with meticulously trimmed hedges to wild floral displays, they each possess their own unique charm, graced by the region’s mild climate.

Suspended gardens, high and above

Les Jardins Panoramiques de Limeuil

Situated on the site of an old fortified castle above one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France“, the panoramic gardens of Limeuil overlook the meeting point of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers.

With its 360° panoramic view, this 2-hectare English-style park offers a truly exceptional vantage point.

Les Jardins de Marqueyssac

In the most romantic of settings, the gardens of Marqueyssac boast over 6 km of shaded pathways lined with 150 000 hand-pruned boxwood.

This National Historic Monument lies 130 m above the Dordogne river with breathtaking panoramic views over the valley and the village of La Roque-Gageac.

In summer, do not miss their candlelit weekly night events for the upmost charming of evenings.

Geometrical gardens, trimmed to perfection

Les Jardins du Manoirs d’Eyrignac

A unique example of Topiary Art in France! These centuries-old gardens belonging to the same family for generations are open all year round.

Enjoy the 300 hand-clipped sculpted plants, lawns, water features, flower gardens and the White Rose garden at your leisure.

Open all year round it is available for weddings and receptions too.

Exotic gardens, a far-away feel

La Roque-Gageac

While visiting La Roque-Gageac near Sarlat, take some time out to meander through the old streets.

All sorts of exotic plants have taken root here, thriving in the sunny micro climate of the village protected by the adjacent cliffs. Just next door to the village, the bamboo grove at La Roque-Gageac extends over 5 hectares.

An exotic change of scenery but also a great natural spot for cooling off when it’s hot, as the temperature in the bamboo grove feels 10°C cooler than outside!

Le Jardin de Planbuisson

The bamboo grove at Le Buisson de Cadouin features almost 240 varieties of bamboo and 100 varieties of other plants, rare trees and shrubs.

This impressive bamboo collection was first created in 1989 by a man fascinated by this plant so important to many Eastern and South American civilisations.

Artistic gardens for getting your easel out

Les Jardins d’Eau de Carsac

Just like stepping into a Monet painting!

The water gardens of Carsac present a magical display of 30 varieties of Lotus and 55 of the most beautiful varieties of Water Lilies.

And a perfectly placed bridge to complete the picture!

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Leisure gardens, great family fun

Les Jardins de Colette

A garden to whet your curiosity…

Home for years to the famous French writer Colette, the 5-hectare gardens are located 10 minutes from Brive-la-Gaillarde.

A great family outing combining nature, the life of Colette and loads of fun with giant games and a maze shaped like a butterfly.

Gardens and castles, best of both worlds

Château des Milandes

The famous Josephine Baker, American entertainer and former WWII Résistance fighter, lived and raised her eight adoptive children in this castle for many years after the war.

The grounds are a magnificent example of the revival of garden design at the end of the 19th century. A combined visit to both the chateau and gardens is highly recommended.

Château de Hautefort

Set on a rocky spur, the Château de Hautefort is an ancient medieval fortress that was subsequently transformed into a luxurious residence in the 17th century.

Embellished by the addition of a formal garden and landscaped grounds in the 19th century, it is a unique site in Périgord, combining both the splendor of nature with the majesty of architecture.

Soothing gardens, wind down and relax

Les Jardins de l’Imaginaire

13 evocative gardens spread over 6 hectares in a haven of peace and tranquility.
In the heart of the ancient town of Terrasson-Lavilledieu, overlooking the Vézère river, the paths lead visitors amongst 2,000 rose bushes, 20,000 perennials, 120 water fountains, 8,000 trees and shrubs including some rare species as well as water gardens and a viewing point from which to admire the town.

Les Jardins Sothys

A source of inspiration and creation for Sothys cosmetics, the eponymous gardens are atmospheric and intimate. A unique experience that combines nature, beauty and culture, where balance and well-being take centre stage. Great restaurant on site too.

Les Jardins de Cadiot

A combination of artistic creation and landscaping, these romantic gardens put on display collections of peonies, ancient varieties of roses, hydrangeas, daylilies, agapanthus…from May to October. In an effort to preserve biodiversity, the plants are grown without chemicals and are chosen to attract pollinating insects.

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Remarkable gardens, great and small

Les Jardins Remarquables d’Arsac

This architecturally designed ornamental garden, awarded the “Remarkable Garden” label, was created over 35 years ago by passionate amateur gardeners.

13 zones, each with its own unique style, cover 7000 sqm.

Arboretum du Château de Neuvic d’Ussel

A 6.5-hectare agricultural and landscaped park awarded with both the “Remarkable Garden” and “Remarkable Tree of France” labels.

Designed in the early 19th century, it combines romantic English-stylelandscapes with ponds, aviaries, valleys and groves, viewpoints and perspectives.

More than 370 species of trees and shrubs are featured.

Unmissable events

As if strolling around the best nature has to offer wasn’t enough, special events also take place in the gardens throughout the Dordogne Valley.

Classical music concerts, electronic music concerts (Jardins de l’Imaginaire)….And also giant picnics, where everyone dresses up in white, listen to music and enjoy a fireworks display ( Jardins du Manoir d’Eyrignac on Monday nights in summer).

For one of the most romantic evening out, watch out for the candlelight evenings held at the Gardens of Marqueyssac, where 2000 candles light up the boxwood and alleyways (Thursday nights in summer).

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