The 5 most beautiful parks and gardens to discover in Périgord
In the Périgord, there is more than just villages! During a tourist stay in the Dordogne, you can escape outdoors to enjoy some fresh air, particularly in one of the parks and gardens of the Périgord. These are perfect places for a peaceful stroll and to enjoy shaded spaces during hot summer days.
Each has its own character and atmosphere. These green treasures are sure to amaze you. Discover below the must-see parks and gardens of the Périgord to visit during your stay in this beautiful department of south-west France.
The Gardens of Eyrignac: a haven of peace in the Périgord Noir
Set over 10 hectares and divided into 7 gardens, this plant-filled space is both unique and prestigious. Located near the medieval town of Sarlat, it is one of the Dordogne’s emblematic tourist sites.
Each of the seven gardens has its own special features. For example, you can stroll through the White Garden, filled with white roses, or admire the geometric topiary sculptures in the formal French gardens.
Beyond the gardens, you can also visit the Artaban manor and explore the surrounding nature across the 200 hectares of woodland attached to the estate.
This is a family heritage and a passion passed down for over 500 years by the owning family, who continue to preserve and develop the site. A unique place in the Périgord Noir not to be missed.
The Panoramic Gardens of Limeuil: a visit with a view
In the heart of Limeuil, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, the Panoramic Gardens offer exceptional views over the surrounding landscapes, notably the confluence of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers.
A unique 360° panorama, less than 20 minutes by car from our campsite — a visit not to be missed.
There is no guided tour, but many interactive and educational installations are set up throughout this English-style park spread over 2 hectares of greenery, making for a fun and friendly visit, especially with children.
The extra highlight of the Panoramic Gardens of Limeuil? Events organised throughout the year, such as the Garden Escape Game for children or photography contests.
The Planbuisson Garden: a tropical atmosphere in the heart of the Périgord
Planbuisson is an exceptional and exotic garden that you should definitely visit during your stay in the Périgord. Its unique atmosphere and beauty are guaranteed to impress.
It was created by Michel Bonfils, a Frenchman who returned from sub-Saharan Africa and developed a passion for bamboo. Today, this garden is one of the largest collections of bamboo, shrubs and ornamental grasses.
It includes around one hundred varieties of giant bamboo, some exceeding 20 m. A perfect place to recharge in the heart of impressive vegetation, less than 20 minutes from our family campsite.
The Planbuisson garden shop sells many bamboo objects: wind chimes, dishes, jewellery, sculptures… perfect for finding a lovely souvenir from your stay in the Dordogne.
The Water Garden in Carsac
The Water Garden in Carsac is located near Sarlat-la-Canéda. The originality of this enchanting and almost magical space lies in its composition.
The Carsac Water Garden is one of the rare gardens in the Périgord featuring:
- Calm waters;
- A variety of pools;
- Waterfalls;
- Rich and diverse vegetation;
- Streams;
- A unique aquatic maze.
Nature lovers and admirers of landscaped environments will be delighted by this outing, perfect for families, couples or friends.
This garden offers a wide range of aquatic flora and fauna: lotus flowers, aquatic plants and a beautiful collection of exotic water lilies. A unique plant setting with magnificent colours, accompanied by the peaceful sound of water.
With its bohemian, romantic atmosphere and exotic touch, this place invites serenity — ideal for a calm break during your holiday.
The Hanging Gardens of Marqueyssac
A major site of topiary art (decorative pruning of trees and shrubs), the gardens of Marqueyssac began to be developed in the late 19th century by the gardener Julien de Cerval. Today they offer more than 6 km of shaded walking paths, a real advantage during hot summer days.
Set in an exceptional environment, they delight nature lovers with their whimsical and luminous landscape in the heart of the Périgord Noir.
They also provide impressive views over the valleys and castles of the Dordogne. In the evening, the illuminations add a magical and romantic touch to the visit.
The gardens of the Château des Milandes
The Château des Milandes features a formal French garden and a landscaped park — a lovely opportunity to stroll through gardens listed as historic monuments.
The wealthy industrialist Charles Claverie redesigned the entire château park in the 20th century, with the help of Jules Vacherot, chief landscape architect of the city of Paris.
Whether you are looking for panoramic gardens or romantic settings, you will find what you are looking for in the Périgord, with its many green spaces near the Dordogne Valley.
If you have not yet chosen your holiday destination in the Dordogne, feel free to discover the rentals at our 3-star campsite, located near Belvès in the Périgord Noir.