There are so many lovely châteaux to visit in the region that it is difficult to pick out a few to list here. Perhaps the best thing to do is decide which direction to head in and then discover the chateaux en route! Alternatively, you can choose to follow La Route Richard Coeur de Lion, and visit the chateaux dotted along its path. Most are open all day, every day in the summer, but please note, some are closed half day or all day on Sundays, and religious holidays. Some have activities for children, and there are medieval festivals in the summer that are fun to see.

 

Many of the chateaux in the area were built in the 11th century and then fortified or altered in the name of fashion. It is common to have parts of the same chateau dating from several different periods. The competition between the Dukes of Aquitaine and their struggle for the thrones of England and France, meant that when it came to castle building a statement about power and wealth had to be made.

 

There are also hundreds of churches and abbeys of note; many are very ancient and beautiful with that almost mysterious air of calm one finds in old places of worship.

 

Chateau de Chalus

Chalus is famous for being the final resting place of Richard the Lionheart. The story goes that Richard got word that some fabulous treasure had been discovered (denoted in the coat of arms) and was being kept here, so naturally he wanted his share. When he was refused, this led to the siege in 1199, where he was wounded by a prototype of the crossbow (then a medieval secret weapon). He refused treatment, the wound reportedly went black and he died at the age of 42, one of the most powerful and influential men of the time. Naturally very unpleasant things happened to the archer responsible, despite getting a deathbed pardon from the slain hero.

 

The castle is surrounded by the imposing granite blocks characteristic of the area, and has several parts dating from different periods, including a cylindrical dungeon.

 

There is hiking and pony trekking on parts of La Route Richard Coeur de Lion. The Tourist board has suggested itineraries for this.

 

Chateau de Hautefort

This château really is a fairytale castle (it has been used in Hollywood films). It is very impressive and set above the village, on a huge hill. The formal gardens are lovely and transport you back in time, and are best viewed from the courtyards above, although there is also a nice woodland walk, if you prefer dappled shade, rather than sun-court formality.

 

Chateau de Boussac

There have been fortifications here since Roman times, and the current building was rebuilt in 1400.

 

Chateau de Valencay

Valençay is in Berry, but because it is so easy to get to because of its proximity to the A20, and because it is so grand, it is worth a visit. Built in 1540 by Jacque d’Estampes, who married money (his wife’s dowry paid for the chateau’s construction) and thought his new fortune should be shown off in style!

 

There are formal gardens with peacocks, black swans and ducks. More unusually there are also deer, llamas, kangaroos and camels! The Musée l’Automobile du Centre is within the grounds, and has over 60 vintage cars.

 

Chateau Rochechouart

This 15th century chateau is especially intriguing since it is built alongside the 20km crater of an ancient (200 million years ago) meteorite strike. It is also the home of a collection of 16th century frescoes as well as a collection of contemporary art.

 

Chateau Rochebrune

The Marshal Blaise de Montluc distinguished himself during the Wars of Religion for his relentless pursuit of Protestants. This 16th century chateau is moated and has massive 11th and 13th century towers. The chateau has many relics form the Napoleonic period.