Château de Lacypierre A personal journey through history Château de Lacypierre A personal journey through history Château de Lacypierre |

Hidden in the charming village of Saint-Crépin-et-Carlucet, just a stone’s throw from the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, stands the magnificent Château de Lacypierre. This fairytale château, built between the 15th and 17th centuries on the remnants of a 13th-century stronghold, offers visitors an enchanting glimpse into the past.

In this historic haven, where time seems to have stood still, you’ll not only discover a castle but also a labour of love — the painstaking restoration efforts of the parents of Isabelle and Florence, the current owners, who have turned this once-crumbling château back into a living piece of history.

From Feudal Fortress to Country Estate

The story of the Château de Lacypierre begins in the 13th century as a feudal stronghold belonging to the Ferrières family, vassals to the Lord of Salignac. In 1462, the property came into the hands of the Bénié de Lacypierre family, an illustrious dynasty of magistrates and royal officers in the Périgord region. They rebuilt the château, transforming it into an elegant country estate that would serve as their residence for generations.

Perhaps the most famous figure to emerge from the family was Guillaume Bénié de Lacypierre (1734-1826), a bodyguard to French Kings Louis XV and Louis XVI.

His legacy is closely tied to the grandeur of the château, which his family held for centuries. Interestingly, his grandson, Julien Lavergne de Cerval, is also known for creating the famous Gardens of Marqueyssac, located just a few miles from the estate.

By the 19th century, however, the château had fallen into disuse and was eventually converted into a farm. It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the property was rescued from dereliction by Isabelle and Florence’s parents, whose dedication and respect for the past restored it to its original grandeur. Today, visitors can step inside and witness a château brought back to life with soul, heart, and history intact.

A Unique Architectural Treasure

Architecturally, the Château de Lacypierre is as fascinating as its history. Built around a central hexagonal tower, the château’s structure features both polygonal and square towers that served very different purposes.

The polygonal tower is often referred to as the ‘treasure tower’, and for good reason. Inside, a breathtaking spiral staircase winds its way to the top. Historically, this tower was used to safeguard the estate’s most valuable assets — not gold, but registers, grain donated by the local peasants, and essential documents. To protect these treasures, the tower was coated in lime on the outside, preventing rats and other pests from climbing its walls.

The square tower, by contrast, housed the justice tower and a dovecote, giving the château a rare blend of medieval functionality and rustic charm. The château’s slate roof, visible from every angle, adds a distinct character, while its warm interiors invite you to explore a world rich with elegance and authenticity.

Elegant Interiors: A Journey Through Refined Living

Stepping inside the Château de Lacypierre is like entering a living museum, filled with antique furniture, delicate objets d’art, and an impressive collection of 18th-century earthenware. These intimate, meticulously preserved interiors reflect the lives of those who once walked these halls, but also the passion of the family that restored them.

Guided Tours: A Personal Connection

What sets a visit to the Château de Lacypierre apart is the personal touch provided by Isabelle and Florence, the château’s owners and guides.

These sisters grew up within these ancient walls and today share not only the building’s historical facts but the heartwarming story of its restoration — a process that began with their parents in the mid-20th century.

With this deep personal connection to the château, they recount the journey of saving the estate from the brink of ruin, blending private memories with fascinating historical anecdotes.

Tours are available in both French and English.

Stay in a Slice of History: The Château’s Apartment

For those looking for a truly immersive experience, the Château de Lacypierre offers more than just a day visit. Tucked away in one of the château’s wings is a delightful, self-contained apartment that guests can rent for an extended stay.

Perfect for history lovers and romantics alike, the apartment seamlessly blends the charm of a family home with modern comforts.

This cosy retreat features everything you need for a memorable stay, including a thoughtfully curated blend of antique furnishings and contemporary amenities.

Spend your evenings wandering the château grounds, savoring the quiet beauty of the countryside, or relaxing with a glass of champagne, which is thoughtfully provided as part of your stay.

With snacks, breakfast, and the opportunity to live inside a historic château, this unique accommodation is available for 2 nights stays, outside of July and August.

Visiting Information

The Château de Lacypierre opens its doors to visitors from May to October.

From May to September, tours run daily at 3:00 p.m., while in October, tours are available on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.

Morning tours are also available from mid-July to mid-August at 10:30 a.m. (except on weekends).

Tickets can be purchased directly on-site or booked online, with prices set at **€10 for adults** and **€5 for children** aged 7 to 12. Children under 7 enter for free.

Pets on a lead are welcome, and the site is accessible by pushchair.

After your visit, you can relax in the picnic area or stroll the surrounding gardens, while convenient parking ensures easy access.