Château de Vayres: A Dordogne Jewel
Discover Château de Vayres, a magnificent blend of medieval, Renaissance, and 17th-century architecture on the Dordogne River, offering a journey through French history and culture.
Nestled on the banks of the Dordogne River, just 15 km from Bordeaux, Château de Vayres is a captivating historical site with nearly 1000 years of history. This classified historical monument showcases a blend of medieval, Renaissance, and 17th-century architecture, reflecting its strategic importance throughout the centuries. Once owned by King Henri IV, the château boasts an exceptional collection of tapestries, elegant French gardens overlooking the river, and a fascinating history tied to the defense of Bordeaux. Explore the castle's interior with a guided tour, wander through the meticulously designed gardens, and discover the secrets of this Aquitaine treasure. With family-friendly activities like riddle trails and a digital game, Château de Vayres offers an enriching experience for all ages, making it a worthwhile day trip from Bordeaux or Libourne.
A brief summary to Château de Vayres
- 63 Av. de Libourne, Vayres, 33870, FR
- +33557849658
- Visit website
- Monday 2 pm-6:30 pm
- Tuesday 2 pm-6:30 pm
- Wednesday 2 pm-6:30 pm
- Thursday 2 pm-6:30 pm
- Friday 2 pm-6:30 pm
- Saturday 2 pm-6:30 pm
- Sunday 2 pm-6:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the Château de Vayres website for seasonal events, such as historical reenactments or concerts, to enhance your visit.
- Allow ample time to explore the gardens; they offer stunning views of the Dordogne River and a peaceful retreat.
- Download the 'Anne Mésia au château de Vayres' app for an interactive digital game that enhances the tour, especially for families with children.
- Consider visiting Libourne's open-air market in the morning before taking a short train ride to Vayres for a full day experience.
- Be aware that the guided tours are primarily in French, but English-speaking visitors can receive an English language guide at the ticket booth.
Getting There
-
Train
From Bordeaux, take a TER regional train from Gare Bordeaux Saint-Jean to Gare de Vayres. The journey takes approximately 25 minutes. From Gare de Vayres, Château de Vayres is a short, approximately 5-minute walk. Follow Avenue de la Gare, then turn left onto Avenue de Libourne; the château will be on your right. A single train fare costs around €5-€10.
-
Bus
From Libourne, several bus lines (461, 462, R461) connect to Vayres. Take the bus to the 'Les Placettes' stop, which is the closest to the Château de Vayres, approximately an 8-minute walk. From the bus stop, walk along Avenue de Libourne towards the château. Bus fares are typically around €2-€3 for a single trip.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services (Uber) are available from Bordeaux and Libourne. A taxi from Libourne to Château de Vayres will cost approximately €35-€50 and take around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. From Bordeaux, the taxi fare will be significantly higher, around €50-€80, and the journey will take approximately 30-40 minutes.
-
Driving
If driving from Bordeaux, take the N89/A89 towards Libourne. Exit at Vayres. Follow the D6089 (Avenue de Libourne) into Vayres. The château is located on Avenue de Libourne. Limited parking is available at the château. Parking is free for disabled visitors. There is bus parking available. Parking is free.
Discover more about Château de Vayres
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
B for Bordeaux
12.3 km
Discover the charm of Bordeaux with B for Bordeaux's expert-led sightseeing tours that unveil the city's rich history and exquisite wine culture.
Bordeaux Elite
12.3 km
Experience Bordeaux like never before with Bordeaux Elite, your trusted partner for personalized tours and unforgettable adventures in the wine capital of France.
King's Tower
12.6 km
Explore the King's Tower in Saint-Émilion: a medieval landmark with panoramic views of vineyards and a rich history.
Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
12.6 km
Discover the Monolithic Church in Saint-Émilion, an extraordinary underground marvel carved from limestone, steeped in history and religious significance.
Porte de la Cadène
12.7 km
Step back in time at Porte de la Cadène, a medieval gateway in Saint-Émilion, and explore the town's rich history, architecture, and wine heritage.
Château Troplong Mondot
13.9 km
Discover the legacy of Château Troplong Mondot, a Premier Grand Cru Classé in Saint-Émilion, offering exceptional wines and stunning vineyard views.
Port de Plagne
15.6 km
Discover Port de Plagne, a peaceful marina in Saint-André-de-Cubzac, offering a tranquil escape on the scenic Dordogne River.
Les Vivres de l'Art
18.8 km
Explore the vibrant art scene at Les Vivres de l'Art in Bordeaux, where contemporary exhibitions meet culinary delights in a cultural oasis.
Bordeaux So You - Wine Tours
18.8 km
Explore Bordeaux's vineyards with Bordeaux So You, where wine tours offer an unforgettable journey through the heart of France's renowned wine region.
Free Walking Tours Bordeaux (english/español)
18.8 km
Experience the charm and history of Bordeaux through engaging walking tours in English and Spanish with Free Walking Tours Bordeaux.
The Bordeaux Wine Tour
18.9 km
Experience the best of Bordeaux with immersive wine tours that blend rich history, exquisite tastings, and breathtaking vineyard vistas.
Bordeaux Wine Trip
18.9 km
Explore Bordeaux's exquisite wines: shop local selections and embark on immersive vineyard tours from a convenient city location.
Cité du Vin
18.9 km
Explore the world of wine at Bordeaux's Cité du Vin: an immersive journey through culture, history, and civilizations, complete with panoramic views.
La Cité du Vin
18.9 km
Explore the global heritage of wine at Bordeaux's architectural marvel, La Cité du Vin, with immersive exhibits and panoramic tasting experiences.
Vert Bordeaux : wine tours & guided tours
18.9 km
Explore Bordeaux's famed wine regions with immersive tours by Vert Bordeaux, connecting you with local vineyards and winemaking traditions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Château de La Dauphine
4.3 km
Experience the charm and elegance of Château de La Dauphine, a premier winery in the Bordeaux region, renowned for its exquisite wines and captivating history.
Port de Libourne - Saint-Émilion
5.6 km
Experience the enchanting Port de Libourne, your gateway to the world-renowned vineyards of Saint-Émilion, rich history, and delectable local cuisine.
Ponton des deux tours
5.7 km
Discover Libourne from the Ponton des Deux Tours: panoramic views, river cruises, and a gateway to the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and the heart of Aquitaine culture.
Museum of Fine Arts and Archeology of Libourne
5.8 km
Discover European masterpieces and archaeological treasures at Libourne's Museum of Fine Arts, nestled in a historic bastide town near Bordeaux, offering free admission and a rich cultural experience.
La Halle de Libourne
5.9 km
Explore the vibrant La Halle de Libourne, a bustling market offering local delicacies, fresh produce, and a taste of authentic French culture.
Chapelle du Carmel
6.3 km
Discover contemporary art in a beautifully preserved 19th-century chapel, a unique cultural experience in the heart of Libourne, near Bordeaux's famed wine region.
Parc de l'Épinette
6.6 km
Discover Parc de l'Épinette in Libourne: a serene urban oasis with ancient trees, a tranquil pond, and a playground, perfect for relaxation and family fun, easily accessible and free to enjoy.
Château Bonalgue - Pomerol
7.7 km
Discover the elegance and tradition of Château Bonalgue, a family-run Pomerol vineyard offering immersive tours, tastings, and a charming maison d'hôtes experience in the heart of Bordeaux.
Château Taillefer
8.2 km
Discover the enchanting Château Taillefer, a premier vineyard in Pomerol, where exceptional wines and breathtaking landscapes await your visit.
Château de Reignac
8.3 km
Discover the elegance of Bordeaux at Château de Reignac: Explore vineyards, taste exquisite wines, and immerse yourself in the history of this 'small Versailles'.
Castle Tailhas - Nebout and Son
8.3 km
Experience the beauty of Castle Tailhas, a stunning winery in Libourne, where exquisite wines and rich history come together in the heart of Bordeaux.
Château Ferrand Pomerol
8.4 km
Experience the enchanting Château Ferrand in Pomerol, blending exquisite wines with rich French heritage in a stunning vineyard setting.
Chateau Clinet
8.8 km
Explore Chateau Clinet, a premier winery in Pomerol, renowned for its exceptional Merlot and captivating vineyard tours.
Castle Camarsac
9.0 km
Explore the historic charm of Castle Camarsac, a captivating vineyard destination offering exquisite wines and stunning architecture in the heart of France.
Château Beauregard
9.4 km
Explore the exquisite wines and picturesque vineyards of Château Beauregard in Pomerol, a gem in Bordeaux's renowned wine country.
Essential places to dine
The Gourmet Baron
8.7 km
Experience exquisite traditional French cuisine at The Gourmet Baron in the charming village of Baron.
La table de Catusseau
9.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Table de Catusseau in Pomerol – where every dish tells a story.
Restaurant du Grand Barrail
9.8 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Restaurant du Grand Barrail, set amidst the stunning vineyards of Saint-Émilion.
restaurant Le Prince Noir par vivien durand
16.9 km
Discover culinary excellence at Le Prince Noir, where French fine dining meets elegance and unforgettable flavors in Lormont.
Auberge Saint Jean
17.0 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at Auberge Saint Jean in Saint-Jean-de-Blaignac - where tradition meets culinary artistry.
Le 7 Restaurant
18.9 km
Savor exquisite French cuisine with stunning river views at Le 7 Restaurant in Bordeaux - a culinary gem for discerning travelers.
Café Maritime - Bordeaux
19.3 km
Experience exquisite brunches and vibrant cocktails at Café Maritime in Bordeaux - your gateway to local flavors and stunning waterfront views.
L'Oiseau Bleu
19.6 km
Discover exquisite haute French cuisine at L'Oiseau Bleu in Bordeaux, where every dish tells a story of culinary excellence and local flavors.
L'AQUITANIA
19.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L'AQUITANIA in Bordeaux - where every dish tells a story.
Le Bistrot (Vatel)
20.1 km
Experience exquisite haute French cuisine at Le Bistrot (Vatel), where every dish tells a story and every meal is a celebration of flavor.
Le Confidentiel
20.4 km
Experience the essence of French cuisine at Le Confidentiel in Bordeaux - where elegance meets culinary excellence along the Garonne River.
L'Estacade
20.6 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at L'Estacade in Bordeaux with stunning riverside views and seasonal delights.
L INTEMPOREL
20.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at L'Intemporel in Bordeaux – where every dish tells a story of Southwest France's rich culinary heritage.
Lil'Home
20.7 km
Experience the unique flavors of Bordeaux at Lil'Home, where traditional French cuisine meets contemporary elegance in a cozy setting.
La Tupina
20.7 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at La Tupina in Bordeaux - where rustic charm meets culinary excellence.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Galeries Lafayette Libourne
6.0 km
Explore Galeries Lafayette Libourne: A premier department store offering a curated mix of fashion, beauty, and lifestyle items in a stunning setting.
Station M family store
12.9 km
Explore unique gifts, antiques, and the cozy atmosphere of Station M Family Store in Branne, a perfect stop for every traveler.
La Boutique de La Cité du Vin
18.9 km
Explore La Boutique de La Cité du Vin in Bordeaux for unique wine souvenirs and gifts celebrating the region's rich viticulture.
Bordeaux Lac
19.7 km
Discover Bordeaux Lac, a vibrant shopping mall in Bordeaux offering diverse stores, delicious dining options, and fun-filled recreational activities.
Primark
19.7 km
Explore affordable fashion and trendy styles at Primark Bordeaux, the ultimate shopping destination for savvy tourists.
Bord'eau Village
19.8 km
Bord'eau Village in Bordeaux: A vibrant blend of gourmet shopping, coworking spaces, and rich historical experiences along the scenic waterfront.
Boutique Officielle de l'Union Bordeaux Bègles Rugby
19.9 km
Explore the official store of Union Bordeaux Bègles, where rugby passion meets local culture in a vibrant shopping experience.
MCV My Wine Cellar
20.2 km
Explore MCV My Wine Cellar, a premier wine store in Bordeaux offering a rich selection of local and international wines for every palate.
Bordeaux
20.4 km
Discover Bordeaux: A gem of French elegance, renowned for its wine, rich history, and charming streets, perfect for travelers seeking culture and gastronomy.
Wineandco
20.5 km
Explore the finest wines of Bordeaux at Wineandco, your premier liquor store for exceptional selections and tastings in the heart of the city.
Flouche
20.7 km
Explore Flouche in Bordeaux for unique souvenirs, local delicacies, and artisan treasures that capture the heart of the region.
Centre commercial Rives d'Arcins
20.7 km
Explore the vibrant Centre Commercial Rives d'Arcins, a shopping paradise in Bègles, France, featuring diverse stores, dining, and entertainment options.
Do you speak French?
20.7 km
Discover the charm of Bordeaux shopping at 'Do you speak French?' - your destination for cosmetics, jewelry, home goods, and stationery.
Bordeaux Blends
20.8 km
Explore Bordeaux Blends, where wine enthusiasts find the finest selections and rich heritage of Bordeaux’s viticultural excellence.
MAT Green Concept
20.8 km
Explore MAT Green Concept in Bordeaux for a chic selection of sustainable clothing, beauty products, and home decor that embodies the city's fashion-forward spirit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Le Carrelet
19.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and innovative cocktails at Le Carrelet, a must-visit cocktail bar in the heart of Bordeaux's nightlife.
La Guinguette Chez Alriq
20.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delectable tapas at La Guinguette Chez Alriq, a top culinary destination in Bordeaux's Port Bastide.
WINE MOMENT
20.4 km
Experience the art of wine and gourmet cuisine at Wine Moment, a Bordeaux gem blending exquisite tastes with artistic ambiance.
Molly Malone's
20.4 km
Discover the charm of Molly Malone's, an Irish pub in Bordeaux offering delicious food, lively music, and a warm atmosphere for every traveler.
Le Bar A2
20.5 km
Discover Le Bar A2, Bordeaux's chic cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and a relaxing lounge atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.
BAR NOTRE DAME
20.7 km
Unwind at Bar Notre Dame, a cozy Bordeaux bar offering a delightful selection of drinks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Le Sobre Chartrons
20.8 km
Experience the essence of Bordeaux at Le Sobre Chartrons, where exquisite wines and local cuisine meet in a charming riverside setting.
LE SINGE VERT - Maison de qualité
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite drinks at Le Singe Vert, a must-visit bar by the Garonne River in Bordeaux.
Les Marquises
20.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bordeaux at Les Marquises, where exquisite cocktails and delicious tapas await in a charming waterfront setting.
BLUE LETCHI
20.8 km
Discover Blue Letchi, Bordeaux's premier cocktail bar, where innovative drinks meet a lively ambiance along the picturesque Garonne River.
Le JAX
20.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bordeaux at Le JAX, a trendy riverside bar offering exquisite cocktails and a lively atmosphere.
PAPILLON
20.8 km
Experience the elegance of Papillon, a premier cocktail bar and restaurant in Bordeaux, where exquisite drinks meet culinary artistry along the scenic Quai des Chartrons.
Symbiose
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Bordeaux at Symbiose, where innovative cocktails and exquisite French cuisine create an unforgettable dining experience.
Bar Cave de la Monnaie
20.8 km
Experience the best of Bordeaux's wine and French cuisine at Bar Cave de la Monnaie, a cozy wine bar perfect for every palate.
The Market Tavern
20.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Market Tavern in Bordeaux, where locals gather for excellent drinks and hearty pub fare.
