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Château de Bridoire: Where Heritage Meets Adventure
Discover the fascinating journey of Château de Bridoire, a castle that nearly vanished in the 20th century. Built over several centuries, starting in the late 12th century and continuing into the 19th century, the castle was home to the Foucauld family from 1806 until 1938. After being sold, it slipped into disrepair in the 1980s. For the next 30 years, it was subjected to years of looting, leaving it in a precarious state.
In 2011, the Guyot family acquired the property and began extensive renovations, finally reopening the castle to the public in 2012. Now fully restored and occupied year-round by its owners, Bridoire Castle has been saved and returned to its former glory, inviting visitors to experience its remarkable legacy.
A Different Angle on Castle Life
Forget the usual castle visits; Chateau de Bridoire offers so much more! In the castle courtyard, you are greeted with giant games like a life-size goose game, sack race, giant chessboard, grass skis, board games and traditional games of skill. Known as Le Château des Jeux, this imaginative setup lets you explore knightly challenges and games designed for all ages. This was the perfect entrance for Lucas, who thought he would be bored looking around yet another chateau. It was lovely to play the games together, and he said he would love to return with a friend to play there, too.
Historic Exploration
While the games steal the show, the castle of Bridoire is a treasure trove of historical wonders. Marvel at the furnished rooms, such as the kitchen, dining and living rooms, each meticulously restored to its 19th-century splendour. When we visited, the castle was decorated with an Alice in Wonderland theme, with puzzles and clues around the castle.
Courses of Challenges
We didn’t do the courses as they reopen in June. The labyrinth offers two courses of your choice. The Enchanted Forest is an adapted family route suitable for 3-year-olds, and the Forgotten Citadel is a sportier course suitable for over 8-year-olds. Both offer trials and puzzles in the maze, which is over several hectares and dotted with rock shelters, woods, and rivers.
What did we think?
We both loved it. It was a wonderful afternoon out. We had fun playing games; it is a beautiful place to explore. We also enjoyed a drink and crepe in the cafe, which is also a boutique selling souvenirs.
Where is it?
Bridoire, 24240, Ribagnac
It is about 15 minutes from Bergerac and 15 minutes from Eymet.
