The Castles of Perigord

There are in Dordogne more than 1,000 castles, manors and mansions mostly distributed along the valleys of the Dordogne, of the Vézère and of the Isle.
The construction of these castles has extended from the 11th. century till the Revolution, that is why the castles as we see them today are characterized by the juxtaposition of different architectural currents.
Below you will find a selection of some wonders. All are situated in the Purple Périgord and not far from the Le Moulin de David campsite.

the castle of Biron

Seat of one of the four baronies of Périgord with Beynac, Bourdeilles and Mareuil, the castle of Biron occupies a strategic position at the border between Périgord and Agenais.

Its history is linked to the grandeur of a family, the Gontaut-Biron, who held the fiefdom for eight hundred years. Each century, between the 12th and the 18th, has left its mark, recalling the vicissitudes of this monumental edifice : dungeon of the 12th, double-floor chapel, Renaissance apartments, impressive vaulted kitchens, hall of the States...

From this incredible juxtaposition of buildings results an exceptional architectural set, having an all particular attraction. Located at 4km from the Le Moulin de David campsite, you can go there walking by the hiking path linking Monpazier to Biron which passes by the campsite entrance.

The Castle of Monbazillac

The Castle of Monbazillac, property of the Monbazillac cellar since 1960, is 43km from the Le Moulin de David campsite. It presents an unique and original architecture, mix of medieval defensive systems and of Renaissance stylishnesses. The castle is at the heart of the Monbazillac vineyard, the wine with an established reputation. Built around 1550, the fortress is a subtle mix of Feudal and Renaissance styles. On the ground floor, the big hall and its Renaissance chimney, the furniture and the decoration Grand Siècle (17th century) make of the ceremonial halls and of the historical halls, all the soul of the castle.
On the upper floor you will discover the apartments of the lords of Monbazillac among which the reconstituted room of the viscountess of Monbazillac. You will not leave this site without having visited the Museum of Wine where are displayed old instruments of vinification and of grape harvest.

The castel of Bridoire

This private medieval castle from the fifteenth century is located in a preserved environment in the heart of the vineyards of Monbazillac, 12 km south of Bergerac and 4 km from the prestigious Chateau Monbazillac.It presents some of the restored and refurnished rooms.
Thus the castle again finds the atmosphere of a family home at the time of the Marquis de Foucauld, owner of de Bridoire at the end of the nineteenth century.
To see:
-Free visit of the furnished reception rooms: historical kitchens with an impressive collection of copper, dining room, billiard room, large living room
-In the inner courtyard of the castle: Many games are available to the public, and are suitable for all ages (children and adults), including several great games such as the Boulie, the Goose Game, Archery.

The Maison Forte de Reignac - The “cliff castle”

The Maison Forte de Reignac, a Classified Historic Monument, is the most secret, strange and mysterious “chateau” in the Périgord. 
It has been exceptionally well preserved and is entirely appointed with period furniture and is the sole, intact example of a “cliff castle” in France. 
It is of rare historical interest and was a jealously guarded secret until it was opened to the public. 
International exhibition on the Inquisition, torture and capital punishment. 

Le château des Milandes

A 30 minutes du camping Le Moulin de David il faut absolument découvrir le château des Milandes en Dordogne qui a accueilli Joséphine Baker et sa famille. Peut être que cette vidéo vous donnera envie de voir ou revoir ce château, ses jardins et leurs castadelles, son parc ... et ses magnifiques rapaces.