Castle of the Dukes of Duras
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Castle of the Dukes of Duras - by patrick vllrd on Google
Description
The Duras Castle is located in the namesake village in the Lot et Garonne department of southwestern France. It was built in the 12th century on a rocky outcrop and its architecture is notable for the 4 round towers at each corner of the quadrilateral it forms. The castle has mostly been owned by the Dufort family from the 13th century until 1838 (it is now owned by the commune of Duras).
Access & Transport
Duras is 24km from both La Réole and Marmande and those 2 towns have train stations on the Bordeaux to Toulouse line. Bergerac is 40km to the northeast and has a few international flights Bordeaux is 75km to the west, a 90mins drive away. There is free onsite parking at the castle and the attraction is well signposted in the village.
Instructions & Recommendations
Note that the castle is not open to visits in January. We recommend renting the audio-guide to make the visit more interesting
Environmental & Social
Green activity except for some electricity consumption (lighting and heating). This activity helps preserve the region's architectural and cultural heritages and brings some economic influx to the village.
Conclusion
The Château de Duras is one of the best-preserved defensive castles in the region and we think it deserves up to 1h drive - possible more if it was not for the many other tempting castles and churches worth checking out in this part of the country.
Key positive
Very well preserved / restored
Interesting historical background
Good views from the castle
Key negative
A little time consuming to get to
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but kids below 8 may find it a little boring Because this is a 12th century castle, most sections / floors are not accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:1h
est. visit time:1h 30m
Start of Season 1:Sep, 01
MONDAY14:00 - 18:00
TUESDAY14:00 - 18:00
WEDNESDAY14:00 - 18:00
THURSDAY14:00 - 18:00
FRIDAY14:00 - 18:00
SATURDAY14:00 - 18:00
SUNDAY14:00 - 18:00
Start of Season 2:Jul, 01
MONDAY10:00 - 19:00
TUESDAY10:00 - 19:00
WEDNESDAY10:00 - 19:00
THURSDAY10:00 - 19:00
FRIDAY10:00 - 19:00
SATURDAY10:00 - 19:00
SUNDAY10:00 - 19:00