Whether you’re looking to recharge, enjoy sunny days, or soak up nature, a stroll through parks and gardens is always a good idea. Just a short drive from Bordeaux, the Dordogne is home to a place as sumptuous as it is idyllic. A truly exceptional site, the Marqueyssac Gardens delight visitors of all ages in the heart of a protected area. Combining nature, architecture, and history, let yourself be charmed by this gem of heritage and greenery just 2 hours and 45 minutes from Bordeaux.
A garden with over 150,000 hand-trimmed boxwood trees
Perched above the Dordogne Valley, the Marqueyssac Gardens are among the most beautiful sites in the Périgord Noir. The estate, designated a Historic Monument, harmoniously blends heritage, landscape art, and breathtaking panoramas.
While the site centers around an elegant castle topped with slate roofs, it is the gardens that truly captivate the eye. Along a six-kilometer stroll, the shaded paths reveal marvels of vibrant greenery. One immediately notices the century-old boxwoods, meticulously hand-trimmed. The garden boasts no fewer than 150, 000 of them, creating a plant-filled landscape with striking shapes.
The paths invite you to stroll among the boxwood alleys, clearings, and hidden viewpoints. Several trails allow you to explore the park at your own pace. Some run along the limestone cliffs, while others traverse wilder, wooded areas.
A unique place to explore via a via ferrata or by candlelight
In Marqueyssac, the visit isn’t just about strolling. The estate offers a wide range of activities that appeal to families and thrill-seekers alike.
Children especially enjoy the plant maze, the treehouses, and the playgrounds scattered throughout the park. Creative workshops and nature-themed activities are also organized during school breaks. The rope course suspended in the trees adds a touch of adventure to the visit.
For the more adventurous, the via ferrata installed on the cliff face promises a dizzying experience. Accessible to ages 8 and up, this aerial course overlooks the Dordogne and offers a unique viewpoint in a spectacular setting.
In the summer, the famous candlelit evenings transform the gardens into a magical setting. Every Thursday evening, thousands of candles light up the paths while concerts and musical entertainment accompany your stroll. As night falls, the atmosphere becomes simply magical.
And if you enjoy concerts in an intimate, candlelit atmosphere, discover the Candlelight Concerts experience in Bordeaux.
A breathtaking view of the Dordogne Valley
The highlight of the Marqueyssac Gardens is undoubtedly the belvedere. Suspended more than 130 meters above the Dordogne, it offers a spectacular view of the valley and its treasures. From this natural terrace, the eye takes in the villages of Beynac, La Roque-Gageac, and Castelnaud. Medieval castles, limestone cliffs, and the river’s meandering course come together to form a postcard-perfect landscape.
Open to the public since 1997, the gardens have been awarded the “Jardin Remarquable” designation and are among the most visited sites in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Their fame extends beyond borders: The New York Times has ranked them among the 25 must-see gardens in the world.
