Castelnaud castle
La Cigaline campsite in the Dordogne is highly recommended for its excellent reputation for accommodation services. It’s just a 1h35-minute drive from the magnificent historic monument of Castelnaud la Chapelle castle. Just 9km from Sarlat, Château de Castelnaud is the most visited medieval fortress in the south-west. It overlooks the Dordogne valley and is twinned with the Marqueyssac hanging gardens, 7 minutes from the château.
History of the château
Founded in the 13th century on a rocky spur 150 m above sea level. Before coming into the hands of Kléber Rossillon, a manager of cultural and tourist sites, Castelnaud castle underwent several modifications and owners, first the English, then the French, before coming into the hands of the Caumonts, who made improvements to the castle and fortifications.
The castle was later entrusted to Geoffroy de Vivans, a warrior who saved it from assault. Later, the château became increasingly neglected, until it fell into disrepair and was classified as a historic monument in 1966, and renovated through major restoration campaigns.
Activities at the château
During your mobile home stay, you can take part in a variety of activities at the château, including guided tours and self-guided tours (with the help of a multilingual and Braille-translated booklet). Educational workshops and artistic activities are also available. At the château, a number of activities are currently available until March 2024, including costume fittings and an exhibition of Hundred Years War aristocrats’ outfits
For more information on the content of activities and the schedule for 2024: => Château de Castelnaud website <=
Further information
Opening hours :
The château is open all year round, every day of the year, with opening times to suit all seasons!
- January: 2pm/5pm
- February-March: 10 a.m./6 p.m.
- April-May-June: 10 a.m./7 p.m.
- July-August: 10 a.m./7 p.m.
- October: 10 a.m./6 p.m.
- December: 14h/17h (Christmas vacations 14h/17h)
Rates :
Low season (from 12/11 to 29/03):
- 11.90/adult
- 6 (children aged 10 to 17)
High season (30/03 to 11/11):
- 12.90/adult
- 6.50 (children aged 10 to 17)
Free for children under 10
Parking :
- Municipal parking lot above the château 3 minutes’ walk away (fee payable)
- Parking on the banks of the Dordogne 15 minutes’ walk away (free)
- Bus parking (bus 1/bus 2) a 5-minute walk away (free)
How to find us :
By car: GPS coordinates: 44° 48 57 N-1 08 33 02 E Motorway: A20 → Souillac exit A89 → Sarlat-la-Canéda exit
Accessibility
Numerous narrow passages and staircases make access difficult for people with reduced mobility. Braille guide available at château reception. Drinks and ice creams available in July and August. Gift store. Pets allowed on leash. Stroller shelter, as access is difficult for strollers. Changing table available. Benches available throughout the tour inside and outside the château.
