We have visited Les Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac many times throughout the recent years and they never fail to take our breath away. They are the most visited gardens in southwest France and for good reason! Perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the farms and medieval castles below, the gardens offer a commanding view of the Dordogne river and a sense of the history that has unfolded here.
From their website:
Listed as a National Historical Monument, surrounding a stone-tiled château from the early 19th Century, the romantic and picturesque Marqueyssac Gardens offer over 6km of pathways surrounded by over 150 000 hand-pruned boxwoods, with viewpoints, rockeries and stone cabins. Situated on a rocky spur, the viewpoint offers one of the most impressive panoramic views of the valley and its many châteaux.
On the other side of Sarlat-le-Caneda from Belvès lies this spectacular example of French formal gardens. The property is divided into separate areas each showcasing a different aspect of the garden – there is topiary, fountains, hedges, a wooded path, reflecting pools, and a cutting and kitchen garden, to name a few. Of all the attractions listed on our website, Eyrignac Gardens are the furthest from our retreat, about 75-90 minutes away.
Limeuil is another Plux Beaux Village (like Belvès) about 20 minutes from our retreat. It is a beautiful medieval stone community set at the confluence of the Dordogne and Vezère rivers. Parking at its base, you can wind your way up the steep cobblestone streets until you reach the hidden gardens at the very top. These gardens are closed Saturdays.
About 20 minutes from Belvès is the tiny hamlet of Campagne that offers a triple delight of sightseeing – a steep walk up to cliffs containing pre-historic caves open to anyone, a stunningly beautiful chateau (exterior only) and delightful gardens also open to anyone for strolling. While Campagne’s gardens lack the drama of Marqueyssac or Eyrignac, a turn on the broad flat path around the property offers a soothing calm, with woods, flowers, a burbling stream, demonstration medieval and pre-historic food gardens, and even a hedge maze. Perfect for a picnic or just quiet contemplation.