Just a 30-minute drive from the caves of Lascaux, Périgueux and Brive, the Château de Hautefort is a masterpiece of the Périgord Noir, combining architectural grandeur with natural beauty.The château is unique in its classical design, unique in the region, and is surrounded by stunning formal gardens and an English-style park.
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Château de Hautefort
A unique classical designFrom Medieval Fortress to Noble Residence
The Château de Hautefort has a long and storied past, stretching back to the early Middle Ages. The château’s history began around the year 1000 when Guy de Lastours became the first lord to build a fortress on the site. This fortress stood as a key defensive structure during a time of conflict, particularly during the Crusades. Guy’s descendant, Gouffier de Lastours, was among the thirty knights who famously entered Jerusalem alongside Godefroy de Bouillon in 1099.
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In the 12th century, Hautefort became the property of the influential de Born family, including the famed troubadour Bertran de Born. A figure of intrigue and drama, Bertran de Born found himself at the center of a bitter feud with his brother.The conflict culminated in 1183 when Richard the Lionheart besieged the fortress. Despite the destruction, Richard, moved by Bertran’s eloquent eulogy for his son Henry, returned the castle to the troubadour.
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By the 15th century, the castle had passed to the de Gontaut family, who would adopt the name Hautefort. However, it was in the 17th century that Château de Hautefort truly came into its own, evolving from a medieval stronghold into a residence fit for nobility. The Marquis de Hautefort transformed the château into the magnificent classical building visitors can admire today, modeled in part after the grand châteaux of the Loire Valley and Versailles.
A Symbol of Resilience: Hautefort and the French Revolution
While many aristocratic estates fell during the French Revolution, the Château de Hautefort survived thanks to the unwavering loyalty of the local people. During the turmoil, a revolutionary troop sought to destroy the château as a symbol of its feudal past. However, the people of Hautefort, who deeply admired the Marquis de Hautefort for his generosity, united to defend the castle. They melted down their own copper to craft weapons, saving their château from the fate that befell so many others during this period.
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Despite being spared from destruction during the French Revolution, the château’s fortunes declined in the 19th century. The estate was sold and fell into disrepair until 1929, when the Baron Henry de Bastard and his wife Simone purchased the property. Their restoration efforts breathed new life into the château, only for disaster to strike again in 1968 when a devastating fire ravaged the main building. Undeterred, the Baroness de Bastard spent the remainder of her life restoring the château once more, with support from the local community and beyond.
The Gardens: A Masterpiece of French and English Styles
Originally planted in the 17th century, the château’s formal Jardins à la française are a spectacular example of classical French garden design. Over three hectares of boxwood parterres are carefully crafted and pruned by hand twice a year, creating stunning geometric patterns that can be admired from various points around the estate. The gardens feature intricate topiaries of unusual shapes, featuring over 10,000 box trees, meticulously arranged to reflect the elegance of the château.
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The English Park: A Tribute to Natural Beauty
The English-style park, established in the 18th century, offers a striking contrast to the formality of the French gardens. Spanning over 30 hectares, the park embodies the Romantic ideals of wild, untamed nature. Inspired by poets and philosophers like Alexander Pope, who advocated for a return to nature’s simple beauty, the park features gently rolling lawns, shaded groves, meandering paths and centuries-old majestic trees.
A Calendar of Events
The Château de Hautefort is not just a historical monument; it is a lively centre for cultural events and activities that engage visitors of all ages.
Guided Tours: Discover Hautefort’s Hidden Stories
Every day, the château offers commentary tours that bring its rich history to life. Knowledgeable guides share fascinating tales of the figures who shaped the château’s legacy, from Bertran de Born to Madame de Bastard. These free 40-minute tours, held at 11 a.m., 4 p.m., and 5 p.m., provide insights into the château’s architecture, history, and significance.
For those with a passion for horticulture, a garden tour is proposed daily at 2 p.m., led by the château’s expert gardening team. Visitors can learn the secrets of topiary art and the sustainable gardening practices that keep the estate’s flora in pristine condition.
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Film Workshop: Create Your Own Cinematic Masterpiece
Hautefort has been the setting for numerous films, including scenes featuring stars such as Meryl Streep and Drew Barrymore. At the daily film workshop held at 2:45 p.m., visitors of all ages can step behind the camera and create their own short film sequences.
Night time shows
In July and August, the château hosts immersive theatrical performances that transport audiences back to the 17th century. Performed by a talented troupe of professional and local amateur actors, these evening shows blend history, theater and music to bring the château’s past to life. Guests are treated to a 60-minute performance that introduces them to historical figures like Eleanor of Aquitaine and Marie de Hautefort.
Practical Information: Plan Your Visit
Château de Hautefort is open all year roundseven days a week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with the formal gardens and English park open until 6 p.m.
Online booking is recommended. For a relaxed experience, plan to spend at least two hours at the château, taking in the views, the gardens, and perhaps enjoying a meal at the La Cour Carrée restaurant.
The restaurant, located near the drawbridge and chapel, offers a serene setting where guests can enjoy traditional local dishes. With its picturesque terrace overlooking the château’s inner courtyard, it’s the perfect spot to wrap up a day of discovery.
