This article was written by Anya from Stop Going to Paris, a blog focusing on the hidden gems of Europe.
Is visiting the Marqueyssac Gardens worth it?
The Marqueyssac Gardens are a 22-hectare park in the city of Vezac in the Dordogne region. Romantic and picturesque, the Gardens are today on the list of remarkable gardens of France. One can enjoy along the 6 km of walkable trails the sight of its unusual bushes, hand-trimmed in fantastic shapes: spherical, rectangular or made to look like flocks of sheep; and embellished with rockeries, wood arches and fountains. The Gardens propose three walks to follow: the Cliff Walk, the High Walk and the Great Alley Walk.
During summer nights, lights illuminate the space and give it an enchanting, fairytale vibe akin to that of Alice in Wonderland. The peacocks living and roaming freely in the alleys and the collection of pigeons in the aviary only reinforce that feeling.
Located on a 130-meter-high plateau in the Dordogne Valley, the overhanging Marqueyssac Gardens have earned the nickname “Belvedere of the Dordogne”. It is undoubtedly the best viewpoint in the whole Valley and on Roque-Gageac.
The Chateau of Marqueyssac, where the gardens are built, is a must-see, even if it is smaller than the average castle size. Its second empire decor and fauna and flora theme give it a romantic, naturalist vibe akin to the hunting lodges of the 19th century.
History of the Gardens
Dating back to the 17th century, the Marqueyssac Gardens were originally designed by Bertrand Vernet de Marqueyssac, a man with a vision to create a harmonious blend of natural splendour and structured elegance. Over the centuries, the Gardens underwent various periods of neglect, restoration, and transformations under its successive inheritors, including the addition of the iconic boxwood hedge maze in the 19th century.
Where are the Gardens
The Marqueyssac Gardens are in South West France, in the Dordogne region. More specifically, in the city of Vezac, not too far from the village of La Roque-Gageac. They are associated with the Marqueyssac Castle.
How to get there
The only way to reach the Gardens is by car, as no public transport runs there.
Overview of the Gardens:
Visiting time
2 hours for the Gardens and Castle, for activities it varies.
Cost
Cost varies according to age and time of the year. For adults, it is usually around 12 euros, 6 euros for teenagers and free for children under 10 years old.
From January 1st until March 29th, and from November 12th to December 31st, 2024:
Adults: 10,90€
Children (10-17 y.o): 5,50€
Children (under 10): free
From March 30th until November 11th, 2024:
Adults: 12,90€
Children (10-17 y.o): 6,50€
Children (under 10): free
Opening hours
The gardens are open daily, but the opening hours are complicated, so buckle up and make sure to get it right!
In April, May, June and September: 10 a.m. – 7 pm
In February, March, October and until November 11th: 10 a.m – 6 p.m
In July and August: 9 a.m – 8 p.m
From November 12th to Dec 25th: 2 p.m – 5 p.m
From Dec 26th to January 7th: 11 a.m – 5 p.m
From January 8th to the end of January: 2 p.m – 5 p.m
Yes, the opening times are ridiculously complicated, but promise, you’ll have a good time once you get there. I would advise checking the website a few days before your visit to plan it well.
Booking
You can book your tickets online for the entrance of the Gardens and the Castle and the ticket for the candlelight evenings. They also offer the possibility of a combined ticket with the Castelnaud Castle.
For other activities, it’s better to book by calling beforehand at this number: 05 53 31 36 36, or sending an email to this address: jardins@marqueyssac.com
Address
Les Jardins de Marqueyssac, 24220 Vézac
What to see at the Marqueyssac Gardens
All activities are included in the price of the tickets, though you need to check the planning beforehand to ensure the one you are targeting is happening the day you’re going.
Take a walk
The Marqueyssac Gardens offer many activities. My personal favourite thing to do in the is to simply walk around, enjoy the sights and peacocks, and follow along the three Walks laid out by the Gardens: the Cliff Walk, starting from the Bastion and ending up at the Belvedere; the High Walk, that takes you throughout the highest peaks of the Gardens; and the Great Alley Walk, the easiest yet most charming one.
After a long walk, take a break at the Coffee shop. From experience, the Fayrac salad is delicious!
Guided visits
Guided visits are the perfect way to discover the Gardens and their history and the Marqueyssac Castle attached to them. I highly recommend doing a guided visit, as they teach you a lot about the Dordogne region and the Gardens themselves, including their previous owners and gardeners.
Candlelight evenings with fairies on stilts
My absolute favourite thing to do in the Gardens is, without a doubt, the candlelight evenings. I found it to be one of France’s most unique and magical experiences – one that only Disneyland could compete with in creating the feeling of being immersed in a fairy tale. During summers, the Gardens offer the experience of fine dining under the stars, with candlelights casting a romantic light over the paths and bushes. The cherry on top is the performers dressed like fairies, walking on stilts, strolling around the Gardens, and interacting with children. Truly a sight to behold! The Gardens also offer other types of entertainment, such as a pianist, jazz music, and a dance spectacle.
Enjoy the view
The Gardens are home to the best view in the Dordogne Valley, thanks to the Belvedere overlook. It gives a stunning view of the river and the villages below.
Learn about the pre-historic history of the region
The region has a rich heritage of pre-historic discoveries (for example, many caves with primitive paintings, such as the Lascaux Cave, the Rouffignac Cavern, Font-de-Gaume, and so on). As a result, to pay homage to that history, the Gardens host a dinosaur skeleton, almost complete and in a remarkable state of preservation.
Woodturner workshop
You’ll learn how to make wooden eggs and tools during this workshop. The instructor is very patient, and the workshop is entertaining, making this the best activity for your kids.
Close-to-nature workshops
Activities around nature are many in the Marqueyssac Gardens, including the discovery of a hive and the beekeeper job. Accessible to kids, this activity teaches them about the impact of bees on our environment and the crucial role of a beekeeper in protecting both.
Beginner rock climbing
The beginner rock climbing workshop provides an ideal playground for those seeking to learn the basics of climbing on natural terrain and a safe environment to test your newfound skills.
Yoga
Yoga is the perfect morning activity to recharge to face the day. In the gardens it comes with a stunning view!
Climbing on the Via Ferrata
For thrill-seekers and adrenaline enthusiasts, this activity will be one you will definitely remember! Via Ferratas (“iron paths” in English) are mountain climbing routes using metal rungs, ladders and safety wires to cross a tricky path. There are many worldwide, and one of them is on the side of the mound on which the gardens are located. The sense of accomplishment upon reaching the end of the path is unparalleled, and the stunning views of the valley add an extra layer of awe to the experience.
Game area
A game area for children is available around the Belvedere, comprising a few-meter-high path with nets between wood cabins.
Nature Days: to the birds and bees
These days dedicated to nature allow you to learn more about bird migration or the organization of a hive and test your knowledge throughout a day of exhibitions, games, lectures and events.
Easter egg hunt
Easter eggs are scattered throughout the Gardens for children to find every spring. A great way to spend time as a family!
Explore around the Gardens
Only a few minutes away by car, the Castelnaud Castle is also a must-see in the region. It is also the ideal way to spend the afternoon, after a morning in the Gardens and before a candlelight evening.
If, instead, you prefer quaint villages, la Roque-Gageac is the perfect place for you! A troglodyte village in the Périgord Noir region, it is now classified as one of France’s most beautiful villages.
Where to stay next to the Marqueyssac Gardens
The Closest place to stay next to the Gardens is the city of Vezac. From anywhere in Vezac, you could walk 20 min tops to reach the Gardens. For a more picturesque village, I highly recommend Beynac-et-Cazenac. I stayed there, and the experience was fantastic.
If you like the idea of staying in a chateau for an affordable price, I can only suggest you check out Manoir de la Malartrie. I had breakfast there once; the food and the manoir are worth a detour!
Visitor tips
- Don’t get the date and opening hours wrong! It’s crucial to check on the website as the opening hours vary daily.
- Be sure to book your ticket in advance online for the candlelight evenings.
- Check the planning of activities before choosing a date to go.
- For the best experience, visit the Gardens and the Castle at the opening hour in the morning (it can easily take up to 2 hours) and then stop at noon for a picnic. You can participate in an activity in the afternoon or visit a village nearby and return for a candlelight evening.
Marqueyssac Gardens FAQ
Where are the Marqueyssac Gardens?
The Marqueyssac Gardens are in the city of Vezac, in the Dordogne region in South West France.
Are the Marqueyssac Gardens one of the “remarkable gardens” of France?
Yes, the Marqueyssac Gardens have joined the list of remarkable gardens in France and are classified as a cultural heritage site.
What is there to see in the Gardens of Marqueyssac?
Besides the 6 km of pathways in a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere, one can enjoy a gorgeous view of the Dordogne Valley and various activities such as candlelight dinners, rock climbing and games for children.
Explore other underrated cities in Europe.
If you liked this article and want to explore France or Europe further, check out Anya’s other articles on her blog, Stop Going to Paris, which focuses on hidden gems in Europe:
- Nîmes, the French Rome
- Amboise, the city of Kings in the Loire Valley.
