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Visit Chateau de Beynac

Chateau Beynac sits high on a rocky promontory 200 metres above the Dordogne River, across which it faces Chateau Castelnaud, a heavily fortified château dating originally from the 12th century but modified, strengthened and altered many times since.

The fortifications failed to stop Richard the Lionheart who conquered the castle by scaling the cliff from below. His occupation of the castle was shortlived however - on an adventure against nearby Chateau Chalus soon afterwards he was wounded, and died soon after.

The castle has interesting dungeons, kitchens and living quarters to explore, and includes features from many ages due to the repeated transformations it underwent. You will admire especially the rare 15th-century frescoes, an impressive 17th century staircase, and some fine bedrooms and salons.

Abandoned from the middle of the 18th century until the second half of the 20th century, Beynac has now undergone a substantial programme of renovation.

Predictably, the castle has a magnificent view of the river and surrounding countryside.

Beynac itself is one of our favourite villages in the Dordogne area. (See villages page).

Recent history: the popular French film 'The corridors of time: The Visitors II' included scenes filmed at Beynac Chateau (see other Dordogne films).

You can also visit the Dordogne castles and chateau at Dordogne castles and chateaux, now with an interactive map