
Visit Beynac
Beynac is one of the most beautiful villages in France and is found on the banks of the River Dordogne, to the south-west of Sarlat. Opposite the Chateau de Beynac across the river is its traditional enemy the Chateau de Castelnaud.
Explore Beynac
The pretty village of Beynac spreads along the northern bank of the Dordogne river, and up the hill behind, reaching the castle that stands poised above the village and river. The narrow lanes wind up through the traditional Dordogne white and yellow stone buildings - best seen around sunrise if you are up and about early!
On the rivers edge you get some lovely views with the river, often full of canoes, a long stretch of wonderful stone houses and rising above the village the imposing chateau of Beynac.
As you wind up its narrow streets every twist in the pavement seems to offer another splendid view and another photo opportunity. Even if you decide not to visit the chateau continue right on up to the top of the village as there is a great viewpoint at the top with views over the Dordogne river, The Chateau de Castelnaud and the chateau de Feyrac.
There are plenty of bars and restaurants in the village, many offering great views as you sit and have lunch on one of their shady terraces. There are also some great little boutiques including one at the top of the village selling some fabulous, unique pieces of jewellry made of enamel on copper.
For a different view of Beynac try to come back in the evening when it is beautifully lit and looks like a fairy-tale village.
Beynac is officially one of France's most beautiful villages and definitely deserves to be. It is definitely one of our favourite villages in the Dordogne and not to be missed.
Apart from the village itself, the main highlight of Beynac is the Chateau de Beynac - a very interesting chateau which also offers great views across the surrounding countryside and river.
Also to visit in Beynac is the 'archaeological park' - neolithic buildings have been reconstructed using traditional techniques. While here, find the time to also visit neighbouring Cazenac, especially its little church, the eglise Ste Marie, and yet more great views.
Beynac is more correctly called 'Beynac-et-Cazenac' - Cazenac is the neighbouring commune, which is administratively linked to Beynac.
Beynac has featured in a couple of well known films set in the Dordogne, including Chocolat (with Juliette Binoche) and The Joan of Arc Story (with Dustin Hoffman).
Museums in Beynac
Parc Archeologique - the daily life of people from Neolithic to Gauloise times.
Places to Visit Nearby
There are three other "most beautiful villages" very close to Beynac. These are La Roque Gageac, Castelnaud-la-Chapelle and Domme. All three are well worth a visit.
It is also close to Sarlat which is one of the highlights of any trip to the Dordogne.
Map of Beynac and places to visit
Beynac places to visit

Chateau de Beynac
The Chateau de Beynac is an imposing heavily fortified castle.
Chateau de Beynac guide
Saint Vincent de Cosse
Saint Vincent de Cosse is a small but charming village in the Dordogne valley.
Saint Vincent de Cosse guide
Les Jardins de Marqueyssac
The Jardins de Marqueyssac are the most famous in the Dordogne and have magnificent swirling box hedges.
Les Jardins de Marqueyssac guide
Chateau de Castelnaud
The Chateau de Castelnaud has impressive collections of medieval arms.
Chateau de Castelnaud guide
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle is one of the most beautiful villages of France.
Castelnaud-la-Chapelle guide
Chateau des Milandes
A beautiful chateau that was once home to Josephine Baker.
Chateau des Milandes guide