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Château de Castelnaud et Vallée de la Dordogne
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My visit to Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle was an unforgettable experience.
This historic site, with its imposing towers and panoramic view over the Dordogne valley, truly transported me back to the Middle Ages. The architecture is remarkable, and every corner of the château tells a fascinating story. It is a true gem of the Périgord, highly recommended for anyone who loves heritage and meaningful discoveries.
5 good reasons to visit Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
- A journey through time :Experience the Middle Ages through engaging and educational displays including videos, animated models, a video game and reconstructions of a medieval kitchen and costumes. As you explore this authentic fortress, you discover a site that reflects the history of the region and the conflicts that shaped it.
- A breathtaking view : From the top of its rocky spur, Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle offers an exceptional panorama over the Dordogne valley, its winding river and surrounding castles.
- A place rich in history :Explore a true medieval fortress, a witness to the past of the region and the conflicts that have marked it.
- Fascinating collections:Discover the museum of medieval warfare and admire the weapons, armour and siege engines that illustrate the art of war in this period.
- Activities for everyone :Enjoy a wide range of activities throughout the year for all ages including guided tours, workshops, demonstrations and shows.
Our partner Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle has been awarded the Destination of Excellence label.
Let yourself be carried away by the power of Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Imagine a majestic fortress perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Dordogne valley. Its stone walls, shaped by centuries of history, rise at the meeting point of two valleys, proudly and strategically dominating the surrounding landscape. The château, a true gem of the Périgord, invites you to explore a past rich in emotion. The strength of its medieval architecture is striking, enhanced by a unique atmosphere within its walls and by remarkable views over the valley, facing its historic rival, Château de Beynac.
5586 Chateau De Castelnaud La Chapelle Dordogne Libre 1
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Château de Castelnaud
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Château de Castelnaud
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Chevalier du 13ème siècle au Château de Castelnaud
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Château de Castelnaud, salle des Preux
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Uncover the mysteries of a medieval fortress
Walk through Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and discover the museum’s collections of weapons and armour, learn about the art of warfare in the Middle Ages and relive the sieges and battles of the time while imagining the daily life of lords, ladies and captains. From the imposing keep to the formidable ramparts, every stone seems to echo stories from another age. Military, political and strategic, the strengths of the château are revealed through its history, its architecture and the 300 weapons and armours displayed in its Museum of Medieval Warfare. The full scale reconstructions of war machines, whose manufacturing secrets were first uncovered here in the 1980s, bring to life the very purpose of these walls.
Learn while having fun
Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is more than just a museum. It offers a true immersion into the Middle Ages through activities and entertainment for all ages. Watch trebuchet firing demonstrations, become a knight during a sword fighting lesson, step into the role of a lady of the castle by trying on 15th century costumes, or follow a costumed guide who brings daily life in medieval times to life.
Castelnaud tir catapulte | Romain Herisson
Arroyo | Ecole De Chevalerie Castelnaud
Arroyo Forge Castelnaud
Visite "Usages des plantes" au Château de Castelnaud
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VIP experience
Enjoy exclusive access to Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle with Kléber Rossillon, who invites you to climb the machicolations of the keep and take in a unique viewpoint at nearly 200 metres above the valley, before continuing on to Jardins de Marqueyssac to discover Kan, the 150 million year old Allosaurus on display.
Private visit
Enjoy a two hour private tour in French or English at Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle for small groups of 8 to 10 people.
Booking
Reservations must be made by contacting n.bapst@castelnaud.com at least 45 days in advance.
Accessibility
Access for visitors with reduced mobility is unfortunately not possible due to the nature of the site. However, an exclusive virtual reality experience is available at reception.
Visite théâtralisée nocturne au Château de Castelnaud
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Jardin médiéval au Château de Castelnaud
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CHÂTEAU DE CASTELNAUD-LA-CHAPELLE
Other experiences at Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Throughout the year, during public holidays and school vacations, the château offers a wide range of activities including guided tours, theatrical visits, themed experiences, workshops, interactive visits, historical reenactments, shows, demonstrations and special encounters.
The rebirth of a medieval fortress
Gradually abandoned from the 18th century and dismantled at the beginning of the 19th century, Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle rose again from its ruins from the 1960s onwards thanks to the passion and determination of the Rossillon family. Listed as a Historic Monument in 1966, they undertook major restoration work with the aim of opening it to visitors. After Philippe and Véronique, their son Kléber Rossillon and today their granddaughter Geneviève have continued this family commitment, turning this exceptional heritage site into a place of discovery, encounters and wonder, offering a deeper understanding of the history of castles and knights that have shaped our imagination.
Tips for a successful visit
Allow enough time
Plan around two hours to explore Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and fully enjoy the exhibitions and activities.
Wear comfortable shoes
The château is set on a hill and the visit involves climbing stairs and walking on sometimes uneven ground.
Do not forget your camera
The site offers beautiful viewpoints over the Dordogne valley and its surroundings.
Check the weather before your visit
In case of rain or strong heat, make sure to bring suitable clothing.
Make the most of the activities
Plan your visit by checking the schedule of activities in advance on the official website.
Answers to your questions
- What are the opening times
Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is open every day throughout the year. Please check the official website for the exact opening hours on the day of your visit.
- What are the admission prices
- Free for children under 10 all year round
13.60 € per adult
6.80 € for children aged 10 to 17
Combined tickets with Jardins de Marqueyssac are also available
- Free for children under 10 all year round
- Are guided tours available
Yes, guided tours are offered in French, English and Dutch depending on the time of year. French tours run daily from 4 April 2026 to 11 November 2026. English tours run daily from 4 May 2026 to 30 September 2026. Dutch tours are available from Monday to Thursday during the summer holidays.
- Is the château accessible to visitors with reduced mobility
Access to the château is difficult due to its location and architecture. However, the lower courtyard, the viewpoint and the barbican are accessible.
- Is there parking available
Yes, a paid municipal car park is located about three minutes on foot from the château. A free car park is also available around fifteen minutes away at the bottom of the village.
- Can you picnic on site
Picnicking is not allowed within the château grounds. Picnic areas are available near the car park and along the Dordogne river. The château tavern is also open daily from 8 February 2026 to 11 November 2026 and during the Christmas holidays.
- Is there a souvenir shop
Yes, there is a souvenir shop on site.
- Are dogs allowed
Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash.
Contact Us
Practical Informations
Contact :
05 53 31 30 00 | chateau@castelnaud.com
Web Site :
Opening times
Opening hours vary depending on the season. For more information, please visit the official website of Château de Castelnaud-la-Chapelle.
Prices
Prices vary according to different conditions. For more information, please consult the official website.
