The Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac: Complete Guide
The Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac: Complete Guide
The Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac are unique gardens suspended high above the Dordogne River on a rocky outcrop. Set in the grounds of a 17th-century château, they offer over 6 km of cliffside walks and one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the Dordogne Valley. They are classified among the Notable Gardens of France by the French Ministry of Culture.
History
The gardens were created in the 19th century and feature over 150,000 hand-planted boxwood trees (Buxus sempervirens) carved into fantastic shapes — rounded forms like flocks of sheep, linden trees, cypress trees, and stone pines from Italy, along with cyclamen from Naples. In the second half of the 20th century the house was rarely occupied and the gardens were poorly maintained. Beginning in 1996, the gardens were restored and new features added, including an alley of santolina and rosemary and a cascading watercourse from the Belvedere.
Fun fact: The gardens opened to the public in 1996 and have since become one of the most visited attractions in the Dordogne, offering stunning views of five châteaux from the Belvedere.
What to See
The Cliff Walk: 6 km of well-maintained paths along the cliff edge, offering breathtaking views of the Dordogne Valley, Beynac, and Castelnaud.
The Belvedere: The highest viewpoint in the gardens, offering a spectacular panorama of the entire Dordogne Valley and the Valley of the Five Châteaux.
The High Walk: A more challenging route to the three highest points: the Calvary, the Bell Hut, and the Belvedere.
Children’s Play Area: A dedicated area with activities designed for younger visitors.
Visitor Information
Opening hours: Open daily, hours vary by season. Typically open from April to November. Combined tickets available with Château de Castelnaud.
Admission: Contact the gardens for current prices. Family tickets and combined tickets with Castelnaud available.
Getting There
Car: Located between La Roque-Gageac and Beynac, 10 minutes from Sarlat. Parking on site.
- ★ Notable Garden of France
- ★ 150,000 carved boxwood trees
- ★ 6 km of cliffside walks
- ★ Panoramic valley views
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