les Jardins de Marqueyssac
les Jardins de Marqueyssac
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About les Jardins de Marqueyssac
Add to favoritesThe Dordogne Belvedere Nicknamed the "Hanging Gardens of the Périgord," the Gardens of Marqueyssac offer one of the most enchanting walks in France. Perched on a limestone cliff 130 meters above the river, this 22-hectare park is famous for its 150,000 hand-trimmed, century-old boxwood trees. Their rounded, undulating shapes create a fantastical, almost dreamlike landscape that contrasts with the formality of classic French gardens. It is the most visited site in the Dordogne, located in the commune of Vézac, in the heart of the Périgord Noir's "golden triangle." The highlight is undoubtedly the Belvedere, a natural balcony offering a 360° panoramic view of the Dordogne Valley. From there, you can admire the region's most beautiful castles: Castelnaud, Beynac, and La Roque-Gageac. In addition to the boxwoods, the park is crisscrossed by 6 kilometers of wooded paths, adorned with rockeries, dry stone huts and waterfalls, offering a break of coolness and absolute serenity.
Tip for an even more exceptional visit.
If you visit in the summer (July and August), don't miss the candlelight evenings every Thursday. The park is illuminated by 2,000 candles, and musical entertainment accompanies the walk. It's a truly magical, timeless experience. During the day, try to arrive as soon as the park opens to enjoy the tranquility and watch the gardeners at work: they still prune everything by hand with shears to respect the plants, a monumental feat of craftsmanship. Expert tip: The site is vast and involves some hills. For children (or those less athletically inclined), a small electric shuttle runs along the main path to reach the large viewpoint effortlessly. For the more adventurous, the Marqueyssac Via Ferrata allows you to traverse the cliff face, offering thrills and breathtaking views of the river. Finally, take a break at the tea room located on the castle terrace: the view there is simply one of the most beautiful in Europe.
