Hautefort Castle A unique castle in Périgord

HAUTEFORT CASTLE, A “GREAT CENTURY” CASTLE IN THE BLACK PÉRIGORD

A historic site in the heart of the Périgord Noir

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

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

History and architecture

From the Middle Ages to the Renaissance

The foundation of Hautefort Castle dates back to the 11th century, with Guy de Lastours as its first owner. In the 12th century, through a marriage alliance, the castle passed to the Born family. The medieval fortress of the time consisted 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 coat of arms of Hautefort. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the fortress was transformed into a sumptuous residence. The Marquis, François de Hautefort, and then his grandson Jacques-François, hired renowned architects to modernize the castle, gradually abandoning its military functions.

Classical transformations

In the 17th century, the Château de Hautefort adopted a classical architecture, more reminiscent of the Loire Valley châteaux than the Périgord fortresses. Its main building and its wings at right angles, 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 to Queen Anne of Austria and advisor to King Louis XIV.

The gardens

French gardens

From the 17th century onwards, French-style gardens embellished the estate. These gardens were redesigned over the centuries, resulting in the current boxwood parterres, sculpted into strikingly shaped topiaries. The gardeners prune these boxwoods by hand twice a year, demonstrating a strong commitment to preserving tradition.

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

An ecological commitment

Hautefort Castle adopts sustainable management of its green spaces.

Shredding plants creates mulch, reducing evaporation and enriching the soil. Gardeners use eco-friendly methods, such as planting ladybug larvae to control pests.

The landscaped park

A 30-hectare English-style park

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

The vegetable garden

An experimental organic vegetable garden

Hautefort Castle also has an experimental vegetable garden, where heirloom plants and vegetables are grown. The unhybridized seeds allow visitors to rediscover the flavors of yesteryear. This vegetable garden illustrates the castle's commitment to biodiversity and the preservation of heirloom varieties.

Visit packages

1. Free visit of the castle, gardens and park
2. Free activities: historical commentary outdoors, discovery of French gardens, immersive workshop in the cinema studio
3. Guided tour of the castle
4. Guided tour of the gardens
5. Summer Night Tours (see below “Night Wednesdays”)
6. Gourmet workshop in the 17th century bread oven: Make, cook and taste the Hautefort palet!

Wednesday Nights

Wednesday Nights at the Château de Hautefort offer a unique theatrical tour entitled “ The Ladies of Hautefort , fiery temperaments”.

Led 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 40 years of theatre experience, and his muse Vittoretti, the audience meets the ghosts of the castle, including iconic figures such as Eleanor of Aquitaine, Marie de Hautefort and Madame la Baronne de Bastard.

This performance in 17th and 18th century costumes, some of which come from the Comédie-Française, promises a total immersion in history, poetry and theatre.

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.

Downloads:

• Download document: cha-teau-de-hautefort-.pdf