What are the opening times

Château de Commarque is open every day from April to the end of September, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. Please check the official website for the most up to date information.

Prices vary according to age and status such as adult, child or student. Reduced rates are available for families and groups.

Are guided tours available

Yes, guided tours are offered regularly, especially during school holidays. It is also possible to explore the site independently with an audio guide.

Is the site accessible to visitors with reduced mobility

The site is partially accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. A dedicated parking area is available close to the château.

Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash.

The forgotten castle that brings history back to life

Château de Commarque

A fortified castle perched on a vertiginous cliff, overlooking a wild and unspoilt valley.

Perched on its rocky spur, Château de Commarque seems to watch over the Beune valley as it has for centuries. Located between Sarlat and Les Eyzies, this remarkable site invites you on a captivating journey through time. Built in the 12th century to protect the Benedictine abbey of Sarlat, Commarque has witnessed the rich and eventful history of the Périgord, from prehistoric times to the noble families who shaped its destiny.

M'y rendre

Member of the Signature Club

A timeless experience

You step into a true time capsule, in a preserved and unspoilt setting. The castle reveals all its interest through the contrast between restored areas and those still in their original uncovered state, giving the site a unique character and offering genuine historical insight.
This is not to be missed and truly stands out as a must see.
The staff are very welcoming and dogs are allowed, which makes the visit even more enjoyable. A small food truck serving delicious burgers is available at lunchtime.
We arrived at opening time and left more than three hours later, fully satisfied with the experience.

5 reasons to visit Château de Commarque

A breathtaking panorama : Imagine yourself at the top of the keep, the wind in your hair, taking in the vast Beune valley. A view that will stay with you.
A journey into history : Step into a true medieval castrum where six great families of the Périgord once lived. Explore the remains of their homes, the chapel and the fortifications.
In the footsteps of early humans : Discover the rock shelters carved into the cliff. You can also explore the Commarque cave, home to engravings and sculptures dating back to the Paleolithic period.
A family’s dedication :For more than fifty years, the Commarque family has been devoted to preserving this exceptional heritage.
Activities for everyone : Whether you are visiting with family, friends or on your own, the château offers a wide range of activities to enjoy.

Explore Château de Commarque, a witness to centuries past

Step back in time and explore this medieval fortress, standing proudly on its rocky spur since the 12th century. Despite its ruined state, Commarque remains a powerful testament to centuries of history and human resilience. A silent witness to epic battles and to the daily life of lords and villagers, this emblematic site invites you on a captivating journey through the ages. Abandoned in the 18th century, it was brought back from oblivion by Hubert de Commarque in 1968 and has since undergone careful restoration.

Discover a timeless treasure

Château de Commarque is much more than a fortified castle. It is a major archaeological site that holds invaluable treasures, revealing continuous human occupation over thousands of years. At the base of the cliff supporting the castle lies the prehistoric Commarque cave, decorated with around 150 engravings dating from the Magdalenian period, about 15,000 years ago. For a more immersive experience, choose a 3D visit of the cave and discover its engravings in an innovative way. Explore the different layers of the past and uncover the secrets of this remarkable place, where eras and civilizations intertwine.

Vivez la magie nocturne du Château de Commarque

©
vSoirées nocturnes au château de Commarque
|
Déclic & Décolle

Experience something truly unique at the mystery and light evenings at Château de Commarque. Let yourself be carried away by the magic of light displays that enhance the medieval ruins, creating an enchanting atmosphere where the past comes back to life. Step into a world of legends that linger around the site and enjoy a moment suspended in time. You can meet local creators in the artisan village, have fun with traditional wooden games, enjoy live music and dine at the food trucks on site.

Dates 2026
Every Wednesday and Sunday evening from 8 July to 26 August 2026, from 7.30 pm to 11.30 pm with last entry at 10 pm. Please check the online calendar on the Château de Commarque website for exact dates. Online booking is required at www.billetweb.fr/soiree-mysteres-lumieres-au-chateau-de-commarque

Prices
Adult 18.50 €
Child from 6 to 17 years 14.50 €
Child under 6 years free
Family pass 2 adults and 2 paying children 55.00 €

Explore the mysterious valley of Château de Commarque

A unique and rare place where part of the story of humanity unfolds, from Prehistory to the 16th century. Step back in time and explore this remarkable site. Buried for four long centuries, this once impregnable medieval fortress now rises proudly again on its rocky spur. A powerful testimony to centuries of history and human resilience, it stands as a silent witness to epic battles and to the daily life of lords and villagers of the past. This emblematic monument invites you on a captivating journey through the ages. Abandoned in the 16th century, it was brought back to light and saved from oblivion by Hubert de Commarque from 1968 and has since been the subject of careful archaeological excavations and ongoing restoration work.

VIP experience

Privileged visit – an exclusive moment in the heart of the château

Enjoy a unique and intimate experience at Château de Commarque. Designed for those who wish to discover the site differently, this evening visit offers a peaceful and personalised atmosphere in a small group.

At sunset, when the château regains its calm and the light gently illuminates the stone, you are welcomed personally by the owner for an exclusive tour, away from the daytime crowds. Spaces reveal themselves in a new way, perspectives shift and the history becomes more confidential and immersive.

The experience concludes in an exceptional setting, on the collapsed hall overlooking a spectacular panorama bathed in the last light of the day. An exceptional aperitif awaits you, featuring champagne, foie gras, pâtés and cured meats from Maison Arvouet, carefully selected for their quality and finesse.

Practical information
From 4 to 10 people
Duration 1 hour and 30 minutes
Available in June and September only
Parking available close to the site near the accessible parking area

Booking and price
Reservation required by email at least one month in advance at reservation@commarque.com 320 € for a group of 4 people, then 70 € per additional person

Book Now

©
Atelier au Château de Commarque
|
Château de Commarque

©
Château de Commarque - Atelier Tir à l'arc
|
Château de Commarque

Step into the medieval era through immersive activities

Château de Commarque offers more than a simple visit, it invites you to truly experience the medieval period through interactive activities. Take part in stone carving workshops, medieval calligraphy, archery or crossbow shooting. Travel even further back in time with music workshops inspired by early origins, where you can play instruments similar to those used by prehistoric people, or create your own prehistoric ornament using carved stone. These immersive activities are perfect for the whole family, bringing both a sense of wonder and a deeper understanding to your visit.

Tips for a successful visit

Photogenic viewpoints

Capture the beauty of Château de Commarque and its surroundings from the keep, the chapel and the troglodyte shelters.

Make the most of your visit

For an ideal visit, wander through the surrounding woodland, enjoy a picnic by the spring and take in the timeless atmosphere of the site.

Wooden games

Enjoy traditional wooden games available on site for a fun break with family.

Evening events at Commarque

Do not miss the evening events, when the château lights up and creates a magical and mysterious atmosphere under the stars.

Do not miss our activities

Take part in the treasure hunt, the game of the seven chests, and set off in search of the hidden secrets of Château de Commarque. Join workshops such as stone carving or archery and check the schedule in advance to make the most of your visit.

Answers to your questions

What are the opening times
Château de Commarque is open every day from April to the end of September, with opening hours that vary depending on the season. Please check the official website for the most up to date information.
What are the prices
Prices vary according to age and status such as adult, child or student. Reduced rates are available for families and groups.
Are guided tours available
Yes, guided tours are offered regularly, especially during school holidays. It is also possible to explore the site independently with an audio guide.
Is the site accessible to visitors with reduced mobility
The site is partially accessible to visitors with reduced mobility. A dedicated parking area is available close to the château.
Are dogs allowed
Yes, dogs are welcome as long as they are kept on a leash.