Château des Milandes
A 15th-century château, once home to Josephine Baker, blending Renaissance architecture with a powerful legacy of love and equality.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Château des Milandes
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century château, once home to Josephine Baker, blending Renaissance architecture with a powerful legacy of love and equality.
"An absolutely lovely experience! The gardens were beautiful and so lovely to roam."
🎧 Audio Tour is a Must
The audio tour, available in English, offers a deeply personal and insightful journey through Josephine Baker's life.
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend a whole day here! Explore the château, gardens, and don't miss the bird show.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Josephine Baker's Private Quarters
Interior of the Château
Step into the personal world of Josephine Baker, with her belongings, letters, and clothing offering a glimpse into her extraordinary life.
Renaissance Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the elegant Gothic-Renaissance style of this 15th-century château, a luxurious residence rather than a fortress.
Spectacular Gardens
Château grounds
Wander through beautifully landscaped gardens, offering serene views and a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll.
Birds of Prey Exhibition
Château grounds
Be amazed by the falconry display, a thrilling and educational show featuring majestic birds of prey.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace Josephine Baker's Legacy
Beyond the Castle Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Audio Tour is a Must
The audio tour, available in English, offers a deeply personal and insightful journey through Josephine Baker's life.
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend a whole day here! Explore the château, gardens, and don't miss the bird show.
🐦 Bird Show Thrills All
The falconry display is a highlight for all ages, with birds brought close to the audience.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens and château architecture offer stunning photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Audio Tour is a Must
The audio tour, available in English, offers a deeply personal and insightful journey through Josephine Baker's life.
🕰️ Allow Plenty of Time
You can easily spend a whole day here! Explore the château, gardens, and don't miss the bird show.
🐦 Bird Show Thrills All
The falconry display is a highlight for all ages, with birds brought close to the audience.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens and château architecture offer stunning photo opportunities.
☕ Relax in the Grounds
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the gardens; they are worth visiting on their own.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Château des Milandes for its inspiring connection to Josephine Baker, its beautifully preserved interiors, and its stunning gardens. The Birds of Prey show is a frequently mentioned highlight, adding an unexpected element of excitement. While most reviews are overwhelmingly positive, some note concerns about the enclosure size for the birds.
"A great place to visit. We left inspired by life of Josephine Baker (audio tour in English and thoughtfully arranged) and the beautiful surroundings. Not just a great visit for adults, but also for youngsters. The falconry display was an unexpected highlight of our visit and was enjoyed by all."
R C
"absolutely lovely experience! the tour was great with audio options in several languages. not too crowded and you could spend as much time in each room as you wanted. very detailed history and descriptions of each room. the gardens were beautiful and so lovely to room. even stayed for the bird show which was so cool, they did a great job showing the birds around to every corner where people were sitting. could easily spend the whole day there, so much to see!!"
Abby Richert
"Get a glimpse of what Josephine Baker was as a person and where she lived. Lots of personal letters, clothing to see to get a imagine of life back in the 30,40's and so on. Not only the chateau is worth the visit but also the garden. It's worth the visit on its own. Beautifully landscapes garden, downside is the owls and falcons being in, what looks to me a small cage. Feels like that shouldn't be a thing in 2025. You do get to see them close by. You probably wouldn't see them in the wild"
Job Van Gogh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Château des Milandes is easily accessible from Sarlat-la-Canéda. Driving is the most convenient option, taking about 20-30 minutes. You can also consider local bus services or taxis if you prefer not to drive.
Yes, ample parking is available for visitors at the château. It's usually free and conveniently located near the entrance.
While a car offers the most flexibility, it is possible to visit without one. Local bus routes connect nearby towns, and taxis are an option, though they can be more expensive.
Opening hours vary seasonally, so it's best to check the official website before your visit. Generally, it's open daily from spring through autumn.
Absolutely! Château des Milandes makes for a perfect day trip, especially when combined with other attractions in the Dordogne region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices typically include access to the château, gardens, and the Birds of Prey show. Check the official website for current pricing and any potential discounts.
Yes, purchasing tickets online in advance is often recommended, especially during peak season, to save time and guarantee entry.
While specific passes might not be advertised, the admission price generally covers multiple attractions within the estate, offering good value.
Yes, the spectacular Birds of Prey exhibition is typically included in your admission ticket, making it a great value.
The audio tour is highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of Josephine Baker's life and the château's history.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully curated rooms showcasing Josephine Baker's personal life, including her letters, clothing, and family kitchen.
Absolutely! The gardens are stunningly landscaped and offer a peaceful escape, considered a highlight by many visitors.
The Birds of Prey show typically lasts around 30 minutes and is a captivating experience for all ages.
While the château has multiple levels, efforts have been made to improve accessibility. The gardens are generally easier to navigate. It's advisable to contact the château directly for specific accessibility information.
The show usually takes place at a set time each day, often in the afternoon. Check the schedule upon arrival to plan your visit accordingly.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is typically a café or restaurant on-site offering refreshments and light meals, perfect for a break during your visit.
Picnic areas are often available in the grounds, allowing you to enjoy your own food amidst the beautiful scenery.
The on-site dining options usually feature local specialties and classic French fare, providing a pleasant culinary experience.
It's best to inquire directly with the restaurant staff about specific dietary options. Many places in France are increasingly offering vegetarian choices.
The surrounding Dordogne region offers numerous charming restaurants and bistros in nearby villages, providing a wide range of culinary experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted inside the château, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the artifacts and interiors. Always check for signage.
The gardens, the exterior of the château, and panoramic views from the grounds offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted over historical sites and private properties. It's essential to check local regulations and obtain permission before flying a drone.
While direct staging might not be possible, capturing the essence of her former home and personal items can be very evocative.
The 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon offer beautiful light for capturing the château and gardens.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The highlight for many families is the Birds of Prey show. These thrilling demonstrations are educational and entertaining, keeping children captivated. The expansive gardens also offer space for kids to explore and burn off energy. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds for a relaxed family outing.
💖 Couples and History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the details within the château, perhaps enjoying the audio tour together. The beautifully curated interiors and the stories they tell create a deeply engaging experience. Afterwards, a leisurely stroll through the gardens or a quiet moment by the château's facade can be particularly memorable.
📸 Photographers and Art Lovers
Art lovers will appreciate the historical context and the personal artifacts that tell Josephine Baker's story. The interior design, though curated, reflects the era and the personality of its famous resident. The overall ambiance of the château and its grounds provides a unique blend of historical narrative and visual appeal, making it a rewarding location for artistic appreciation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Spirit of Josephine Baker
Visitors can explore rooms that have been meticulously preserved to reflect her life. Displays include personal letters, photographs, and clothing, offering an intimate look at her journey from a global star to a devoted mother and a courageous member of the French Resistance. The château truly brings her inspiring story to life, making it more than just a historical site but a testament to her humanitarian spirit.
Her time at Milandes was not without its challenges, and the château also tells a story of resilience. Despite facing expulsion from her home, her legacy continues to resonate, making Château des Milandes a place of profound historical and emotional significance.
Architectural Evolution and Garden Beauty
The château's grounds are equally captivating, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens that invite leisurely exploration. These meticulously maintained spaces provide a serene contrast to the château's historical interiors. Visitors often rave about the tranquility and aesthetic appeal of the gardens, making them a significant part of the overall experience.
Beyond the formal gardens, the estate also hosts a popular Birds of Prey exhibition. This engaging show, included with admission, features impressive demonstrations of falcons, owls, and other raptors, adding an element of natural wonder and excitement to your visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit