The Marqueyssac Gardens
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Marqueyssac Gardens - by garnoteldelphine from Pixabay
Description
The Gardens of Marqueyssac (Jardins de Marqueyssac) were created in the middle of the 19th century around the château de Marqueyssac, in the Dordogne department of southwestern France. They are planted with over 150,000 boxwoods along 6km of alleys on top of a promontory offering visitors views over the Dordogne river and several small villages such as Catelnaud, Beynac and Fayrac. The various paths are embellished with benches carved in rocks, a rotund and small staircase over various levels. The map can be seen here: https://www.marqueyssac.com/visite-des-jardins-2/
Access & Transport
The gardens are located 10km southwest of Sarlat (15mins drive) along the D57. Sarlat is on the train line from Bordeaux (2h20mins) and Bergerac (1h05mins). Those are also the closest airports. By car, Bordeaux is about 200km away (2h20mins) and Bergerac 65km (1h15mins).
Instructions & Recommendations
This activity can be combined with the visit of the Castelnaud-la-Chapelle Castle or the Beynac castle, each less than a 5min drive away. You can also consider a short boat trip on the Dordogne, there are operators in Beynac that use traditional crafts called "gabarres".
Environmental & Social
Eco-friendly activity Promotes a small operation with local gardeners and some economic benefits from tourism to the local villages
Conclusion
The "hanging" garden of Marqueyssac is the perfect opportunity for a relaxing and interesting walk with enjoyable views over the river and surrounding villages. The gardens are supplemented by play areas for kids (including a small maze) that make it a great activity for families.
Key positive
Spectacular views
Aesthetically original and well executed
Several play areas for children
Key negative
Do not expect lush and colourful plants and flowers
Suitability
Suitable for all ages. The promenade until the belvedere is accessible for wheelchair users and the gardens are partially accessible to visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 45m
est. visit time:2h
Start of Season 1:Feb, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Nov, 12
MONDAY14:00 - 17:00
TUESDAY14:00 - 17:00
WEDNESDAY14:00 - 17:00
THURSDAY14:00 - 17:00
FRIDAY14:00 - 17:00
SATURDAY14:00 - 17:00
SUNDAY14:00 - 17:00