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Château de Commarque: A Medieval Fortress in the Vézère Valley

Explore a medieval fortress and prehistoric cave in the Dordogne's Vézère Valley, a journey through 15,000 years of history and breathtaking landscapes.

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Château de Commarque, a remarkable medieval castle in the Dordogne region of France, offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved ruins and stunning views. The castle's history spans from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages, with evidence of both cave dwellings and a fortified tower. It stands as a testament to the region's rich heritage and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Commarque Castle

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy walking shoes as the site is located on a cliff and involves walking along uneven paths.
  • Bring baby carriers for young children, as strollers are not recommended.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider visiting during school holidays for guided tours and themed workshops.
  • Dogs are welcome if kept on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    If driving, head towards Les Eyzies from any location in Dordogne. From Sarlat-la-Canéda, take D47 towards Les Eyzies. Continue on D47 until you reach Route de la Bachellerie, then merge onto D706. Follow the signs for Les Eyzies. Upon arrival at Les Eyzies, look for the signs directing you to Commarque Castle. The castle is located approximately 5 km from the town center. There are three car parks available, including one for people with reduced mobility. Parking is free. Be aware that some GPS may lead to an incorrect route via Chemin du Bos; Route de Sireuil is the main access road.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Commarque Castle via public transport, take a train from Bordeaux or Sarlat-la-Canéda to Les Eyzies. Train tickets can be purchased at the station or online. From Périgueux to Les Eyzies the train costs €30-€50. From Bordeaux to St Cyprien Dordogne costs €25–55. Once you arrive at Les Eyzies train station, you can either walk to the castle, which is about a 1-hour hike (approximately 5 km), or take a local taxi. Taxi fares may vary, but expect to pay around €15-€20 for the short ride.

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Discover more about Commarque Castle

Nestled in the heart of the Vézère Valley, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Château de Commarque is a captivating journey through time. This medieval castrum, built to protect the Benedictine abbey of Sarlat in the 12th century, began as a simple wooden tower. Over the centuries, it evolved into a complex structure with tower houses and a chapel, reflecting the region's tumultuous history. The castle's strategic location at the crossroads of important routes made it a vital defensive point. It was later taken by the powerful Beynac family, who fortified the castle and transformed the area into a bustling feudal community. The site was gradually abandoned after the death of its last lord in 1656 and fell into disrepair. Rediscovered and restored by Hubert de Commarque in 1972, the castle has been undergoing extensive restoration to save it from ruin. Visitors can explore the castle's ruins, climb the 30-meter tower for panoramic views, and discover the remains of troglodyte caves. The site also contains prehistoric caves with engravings dating back thousands of years, though these are closed to the public to protect the ancient artwork. The blend of medieval and prehistoric history makes Château de Commarque a unique and fascinating destination. Today, Château de Commarque offers a range of activities, including guided tours, workshops, and old-time games. Visitors can also enjoy exhibitions and 3D projections that bring the castle's history to life. The site is open from April to November, with varying hours depending on the season.

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