Marqueyssac Gardens

A closer look at the Marqueyssac Gardens

Situated in the famous Périgord Noir region, the Marqueyssac Gardens form an integral part of the Dordogne’s historical heritage. The park, set across 22 hectares, surrounds a château with a stone-tiled roof. With over 6 km of shady pathways lined by 150,000 centuries-old boxwood trees, all pruned by hand, these gardens provide fabulous scenery.

The origins of the Marqueyssac Gardens are a feature of the Vernet de Marqueyssac family history, dating back to the 17th century. The garden design dates from the late 19th century. It comprises belvederes, small staircases, dry stone huts and even benches carved into the rock. Julien de Cerval inherited the estate in 1861 and dedicated the last 30 years of his life to overseeing the gardens. He planted tens of thousands of boxwood trees and created sinuous paths, typical of the landscaping seen in France under the rule of Napoleon III.

In addition to planting cypress trees and umbrella pines, Julien de Cerval further expressed his interest in Italian culture with the inclusion of Naples cyclamen. Today, this forms a marvellous coloured carpet. He enhanced the park with numerous elements that accentuated the picturesque beauty of the gardens, drawing inspiration from romantic gardens.

Following a period of neglect, Kléber Rossillon acquired the estate in 1996. He undertook the restoration of the gardens. Adding some new features, he created a winding alley of santolina and rosemary, and a course of water that descends from the belvedere and ends in a cascade, perfectly complementing the work of Julien de Cerval.

The Marqueyssac estate opened its doors to the public in March 1997. The gardens are now the most visited in the Périgord region. A testament to their majestic natural heritage, they overlook the Dordogne valley, providing a magnificent view.

Your visit

The paths in the garden are organised into three routes that lead to the belvedere. Throughout your visit, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna of the valley. Walking enthusiasts will be delighted to discover this stunning location, adorned with waterfalls, rockeries and fascinating vegetation.

For those who wish, guided and self-guided tours are available. The guided tour is available in both English and French. This is available at no extra charge between April and October. The tour is also accessible for sight impaired visitors; a braille visitor’s guide can be collected from the garden reception desk.

The Marqueyssac Gardens and the château grounds are accessible to people with reduced mobility. Parking is also available in the immediate vicinity of the site entrance. An electric shuttle is available to help visitors reach the belvedere. This is available from April to late September.

Need to take a break? In addition to the benches situated along the paths, there are also a number of children’s play areas. You can also visit the aviary or explore the meticulously tended boxwood maze.

To end your visit on a high note, why not visit our shop, enjoy a drink in our tearoom or admire the view from the panoramic terrace as you grab a bite to eat in the Château de Castelnaud’s restaurant.

Experience the romantic, musical atmosphere at one of the candlelit evenings held every Thursday between 7 pm and midnight in July and August. Come and admire the 2000 candles that illuminate the Marqueyssac Gardens.

Create a memory of the Dordogne that you’ll treasure forever!