Hautefort Castle Castles in Périgord in Hautefort

THE CHÂTEAU DE HAUTEFORT, A "GRAND SIÈCLE" CASTLE IN THE BLACK PériGORD

A historic site in the heart of Périgord Noir

The Château de Hautefort stands proudly in the Périgord Noir, a region renowned for its picturesque landscapes and its rich heritage.

This castle, of medieval origin, was profoundly transformed in the 17th century to become a fully classic pleasure residence. Its location on a rocky outcrop offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, merging nature and architecture in perfect harmony.

History and architecture

From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance

The foundation of Château de Hautefort dates back to the 11th century, with Guy de Lastours as its first owner. In the 12th century, through a matrimonial alliance, the castle passed to the Born family. The medieval fortress of the time was made up of a keep and several towers connected by ramparts, testifying to its defensive function.

In the 14th century, the castle became the property of the Gontaut family, who took the name and arms of Hautefort. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the fortress was transformed into a sumptuous residence. The marquis, François de Hautefort, then her grandson Jacques-François, hired renowned architects to modernize the castle, gradually abandoning its military functions.

Classic transformations

In the 17th century, the Château de Hautefort adopted a classical architecture, more reminiscent of the castles of the Loire than the Périgord fortresses. Its main building and its right-angled wings, flanked by circular towers, illustrate the change in style and function. This transformation reflects the rank and power of the lords of Hautefort, such as Jacques-François, first equerry of Queen Anne of Austria and advisor to King Louis XIV.

The gardens

French gardens

From the 17th century, French gardens embellished the estate. These gardens have been redeveloped over the centuries, resulting in today's boxwood beds, sculpted into topiaries with astonishing shapes. Gardeners prune these boxwoods by hand twice a year, demonstrating a strong commitment to preserving the tradition.

The garden extends over more than three hectares, including a plant pergola of almost 70 meters, ideal for cooling off, and an espalier of magnolias overlooking the Hautefort parterre, made up of 10,000 plants of boxwood.

An ecological commitment

The Château de Hautefort adopts sustainable management of its green spaces.

Grinding plants produces mulch, reducing evaporation and enriching the soil. Gardeners use ecological methods, such as planting ladybug larvae to control pests.

The landscaped park

A 30-hectare English-style park

In the 19th century, the landscaper Choulot replaced the French-style park with an English-style park. This park offers varied views of the surrounding countryside, with shaded paths and remarkable trees, such as the majestic Lebanese cedar (at least 250 years old). The park is a place conducive to relaxation, harmoniously integrating the castle and its environment.

The vegetable garden

An experimental organic vegetable garden

Château de Hautefort also has an experimental vegetable garden, where ancient plants and vegetables are grown. The seeds, not hybridized, allow you to rediscover the flavors of yesteryear. This vegetable garden illustrates the castle's commitment to biodiversity and the preservation of old varieties.

Visit options

1. Free tour of the castle, gardens and park
2. Free guided tours: outdoor historical commentary, discovery of French gardens, immersive workshop at the cinema studio
3. Guided tour of the castle
4. Guided tour of the gardens
5. Summer night visits (see "Wednesday nights" below)
6. Gourmet workshop in the 17th century bread oven: Make, cook and taste the Hautefort palet

Night Wednesdays

Wednesday Nights at the Château de Hautefort offer a unique dramatized journey entitled " The Ladies of Hautefort , temperaments of fire".

Hosted by a troupe of twenty extras, this show features around ten tableaux vivants, mixing ancient music and contemporary creations.

Under the expert direction of Christian Croset, with his 40 years of experience in theater, and his muse Vittoretti, the public meets the ghosts of the castle, including emblematic figures like Eleanor of Aquitaine, Marie de Hautefort and Madame la Baronne de Bastard.

This performance in 171h and 18th century costumes, some of which come from the Comédie-Française, promises total immersion between history, poetry and theater.

Performances take place every Wednesday, from July 10 to August 28, 2024, at 7 p.m., 8 p.m., 9 p.m. and 10 p.m., with online reservation required.