Jardins de Marqueyssac

The Gardens of Marqueyssac: A Paradise Suspended in the Heart of the Périgord Noir

Located in the Périgord Noir, one of the most picturesque regions in southwestern France, the Gardens of Marqueyssac are a true masterpiece of topiary art. Perched on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne valley, these gardens offer not only an impressive display of plants, but also breathtaking panoramic views of one of the most beautiful regions in France. Whether you are a gardening enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful getaway, the Gardens of Marqueyssac have something to offer all visitors.

Learn more about the Gardens of Marqueyssac

The Gardens of Marqueyssac are a place of rare beauty, where the art of gardening reaches heights of perfection. When you visit these gardens, you will discover not only a masterpiece of topiary art, but also a place steeped in history and serenity.

Whether you are a nature lover, a fan of beautiful views, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, the Marqueyssac Gardens will offer you an unforgettable experience. Each visit is an invitation to slow down, observe, and appreciate the timeless beauty of this corner of paradise suspended above the Dordogne Valley.

A Little History

The Marqueyssac Gardens have a rich history dating back to the late 17th century. The Château de Marqueyssac, around which the gardens are laid out, was built at the beginning of this period. It was Bertrand Vernet de Marqueyssac who began creating the first gardens, structuring them according to the principles of the time, with boxwood-lined paths and terraces offering views of the Dordogne valley.

However, it was not until the 19th century that the gardens took on their current form under the impetus of Julien de Cerval, a passionate botanist and gardener. He devoted more than 30 years to beautifying the estate, planting thousands of box trees and laying out the winding paths that now meander through the site. The perfectly pruned box trees have become the signature feature of the Marqueyssac Gardens, giving this place its unique atmosphere, both orderly and mysterious.

A Living Work of Art

What sets the Gardens of Marqueyssac apart is their incredible collection of trimmed boxwoods. More than 150,000 boxwoods, sculpted with meticulous care, form a living landscape that evolves with the seasons. The rounded shapes and volutes create an impression of movement and fluidity, as if the boxwoods were dancing gently in the breeze. These plant sculptures, created without a specific plan, are the fruit of the imagination and skill of the gardeners, who perpetuate a tradition of excellence.

The boxwoods are arranged to create theatrical scenes, where you can lose yourself in a maze of greenery or stop to admire a spectacular view. Every corner of the garden reveals a new surprise, a hidden detail, an unexpected perspective. It is a place where nature and art come together to create a harmonious space, conducive to contemplation and daydreaming.

The Marqueyssac Gardens are not only a work of art, but also a living ecosystem. Boxwood, although predominant, is accompanied by a variety of plants and trees that add color and texture to the landscape. Holm oaks, cypresses, Aleppo pines, lavender, and rosemary enrich the plant palette, creating striking contrasts with the soft green of the boxwoods.

A Walk Through the Gardens

The Gardens of Marqueyssac cover more than 22 hectares and offer a network of over 6 kilometers of shaded paths. These paths, which wind through boxwoods and groves, lead to belvederes offering spectacular views of the Dordogne valley and the surrounding castles, including Castelnaud, Beynac, and La Roque-Gageac. Visitors can choose from several itineraries, each offering a unique experience of the garden.

The Allée des Falaises, undoubtedly one of the most spectacular, runs along the crest of the cliff and offers breathtaking panoramic views. This path is lined with cypress and umbrella pines, which contrast beautifully with the blue sky and the deep green of the valley below. At the end of this path, the Belvédère de la Dordogne, located 192 meters above the river, offers a 360-degree view of the region. It is a perfect place to take photos or simply sit and admire the beauty of the landscape.

The Birch Tree Walk, meanwhile, is a more intimate path lined with graceful birch trees and aromatic plants. This walk is particularly pleasant in spring and summer, when the flowers are in full bloom and the air is filled with the scent of herbs.

Finally, for history buffs, the Grand Tapis Vert trail leads to the Château de Marqueyssac. This path, lined with perfectly trimmed box trees, offers a majestic view of the château and its terraces. The château itself is well worth a visit, with its furnished rooms, exhibitions on the history of the estate, and breathtaking views of the gardens.

Activities and Events

The Marqueyssac Gardens are not only a place to stroll, but also a place of discovery and learning. Throughout the year, numerous activities and events are offered for visitors of all ages.

For children, a tree-top adventure course has been set up in the trees, offering a fun and athletic way to discover the gardens. Boxwood carving workshops are also organized, where children can learn to prune and carve simple shapes in boxwood under the supervision of an experienced gardener.

Adults, meanwhile, can take part in guided tours, which provide a better understanding of the history of the gardens and the gardening techniques used. Lectures and workshops on topiary, horticulture, and biodiversity are also offered regularly.

In summer, the Marqueyssac Gardens are illuminated during candlelit evenings, a magical event where thousands of candles are lit in the garden, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. These evenings are accompanied by live music, with performances by classical or jazz musicians adding a touch of romance to the experience. It is a unique opportunity to discover the gardens in a different light (or rather, a different night), in an intimate and enchanting atmosphere.

A Place of Serenity and Reflection

The Marqueyssac Gardens are above all a place of calm and serenity. As you stroll along these shaded paths, far from the hustle and bustle of the modern world, you will be invited to slow down, reconnect with nature, and meditate on the simple yet profound beauty that surrounds you.

The numerous benches and gazebos scattered throughout the garden offer ideal stopping points for reflection or simply to sit and listen to the birds singing. The symphony of leaves rustling in the wind, the song of cicadas in summer, and the scent of aromatic herbs create an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and contemplation.

The estate's chapel, a small, simple, and elegant building, is another place where visitors can stop for a moment of contemplation. Built in the 18th century, it adds a spiritual dimension to the garden, recalling the deep connection between man, nature, and the sacred.