Château de Commarque
A captivating medieval castle ruin, built into a hillside with ancient cave dwellings and stunning valley views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical atmosphere, special events
Château de Commarque
Best Time
Magical atmosphere, special events
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A captivating medieval castle ruin, built into a hillside with ancient cave dwellings and stunning valley views.
"Magical place and not your average chateau. One of our favorite chateaus in the region."
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Lots of climbing and uneven paths! Good shoes are a must for exploring the castle and forest trails.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The climb can be strenuous. While there's a gift shop, having your own water is wise.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Ruined Keep
Central Courtyard
Majestic medieval ruins offering a glimpse into the past, with breathtaking views from its tower.
Troglodyte Dwellings
Base of the hillside
Ancient cave shelters carved into the hillside, showcasing early human ingenuity and settlement.
Panoramic Valley Views
Top of the keep
Stunning vistas of the Vézère Valley, offering a serene and picturesque landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Wear Sturdy Shoes for the Climb
Embrace the Restoration Story
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Lots of climbing and uneven paths! Good shoes are a must for exploring the castle and forest trails.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The climb can be strenuous. While there's a gift shop, having your own water is wise.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Explore the ruins, caves, and enjoy the views. Don't rush this historical gem.
✨ Evening Events
Check for 'Soirées Mystères et Lumière' for a magical nighttime experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Footwear is Key
Lots of climbing and uneven paths! Good shoes are a must for exploring the castle and forest trails.
💧 Bring Water & Snacks
The climb can be strenuous. While there's a gift shop, having your own water is wise.
🕰️ Allow Ample Time
Explore the ruins, caves, and enjoy the views. Don't rush this historical gem.
✨ Evening Events
Check for 'Soirées Mystères et Lumière' for a magical nighttime experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Château de Commarque as a magical and unique historical site, appreciating its preserved ruined state and the fascinating troglodyte dwellings. The dedication of the family restoring the castle is widely admired, and the scenic forest walk adds to the overall experience. Some note the significant climbing involved and the distance to restrooms.
"Dormant for 400 years, the castrum of Commarque was covered with abundant vegetation. It was saved in the 3rd millennium by a direct descendant of the eponymous family ! The site, which rests on a decorated cave but closed to the public, dating back 20,000 years, has gradually been cleared, revealing troglodyte shelters, a 12th-century keep, a dwelling, a chapel, an entire defense system and knights' tower houses. New fun and illustrated tour trail since and numerous activities are organised throughout the summer."
Enjoy life
"Magical place and not your average chateau. Preserved in its ruined state and built on a ancient troglodyte settlement. Wear good shoes for the castle itself and the hike up from the car park through the forest. One of our favorite chateaus in the region."
Gary Erwin
"Beautiful ruin which the family are trying to preserve for history.well done those individuals, its a favourite place to discover after a lovely shady forest walk down to it."
Jane Morris
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Château de Commarque is located in the Dordogne region of France. It's best accessed by car, with parking available near the site. The drive through the Périgord Noir is scenic.
Yes, there is a car park at the top, which is convenient for accessing the castle. However, be aware that the toilets are also located at this upper car park.
Public transport options are limited in this rural area. Renting a car or joining a guided tour that includes transportation is highly recommended for easier access.
The approach often involves a lovely, shady forest walk from the car park down to the castle, adding to the sense of discovery.
Château de Commarque is near other historical sites like Château de Laussel and is a popular stop when visiting the charming town of Sarlat. 
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees apply for entry to the castle. It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing and any potential discounts.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Château de Commarque website for up-to-date information on operating times, especially during shoulder seasons or holidays.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially for special events like the evening experiences, is recommended to secure your spot.
The site offers a new fun and illustrated tour trail, and various activities are organized throughout the summer. Inquire upon arrival or check their website for details.
The decorated cave at the site is closed to the public, so there is no separate entrance fee for it. The main focus is on the castle ruins and troglodyte shelters.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll discover impressive medieval ruins, including a 12th-century keep, dwelling, chapel, defense system, knights' tower houses, and ancient troglodyte shelters.
Yes, children often enjoy exploring the ruins and imagining medieval life. The forest walk and the sense of adventure make it engaging for families.
Throughout the summer, various activities are organized, including historical reenactments, animal demonstrations (like geese and sheepdogs), and special evening events.
Plan for at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle, its surroundings, and enjoy the views. Some visitors spend longer if they participate in activities.
Restrooms are located at the upper car park, which is a significant walk from the castle entrance itself.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic views from the top of the keep are spectacular. The ruined architecture against the natural landscape also makes for dramatic shots.
Yes, photography is generally allowed within the castle ruins and grounds. Be mindful of other visitors and respect the historical site.
Golden hour, during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the castle's atmosphere. Summer evenings with special lighting events are also unique.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permissions before flying a drone over historical sites.
From the higher points of the castle, you can capture sweeping views of the Vézère Valley, the surrounding forests, and the nearby Château de Laussel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb can be tiring, the gift shop at the top offers refreshments, including ice cream, which can be a welcome treat.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
🏰 History Buffs and Architecture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Remarkable Restoration of Commarque
This progressive restoration has gradually revealed the site's secrets, uncovering troglodyte shelters, a 12th-century keep, a dwelling, a chapel, and an entire defense system. The ongoing archaeological research continues to shed light on the daily lives and strategic importance of this unique location.
Visitors can experience this history through a new, illustrated tour trail that brings the past to life. The ongoing efforts ensure that the legacy of Commarque is preserved for future generations to explore and appreciate.
Exploring the Medieval Architecture and History
The imposing tower and various architectural remnants provide a tangible connection to its past strategic importance and the conflicts it witnessed. The site showcases a variety of medieval structures, including a formidable keep, a dwelling, a chapel, and defensive elements like tower houses. What makes Commarque particularly unique is its integration with the natural landscape, built into a hillside above ancient troglodyte shelters.
This blend of natural cave dwellings and constructed fortifications illustrates the evolution of human settlement and defense strategies over centuries. The progressive nature of its development, from ancient caves to a fortified castle, offers a compelling narrative of human ingenuity.
Activities and Special Events
+1One of the highlights is the 'Soirées Mystères et Lumière' (Mystery and Light Evenings), which transform the castle into a magical setting after dark. These nocturnes offer a chance to experience the site in a dreamlike, poetic ambiance, perfect for families and friends.
During the day, especially during events like 'Châteaux en Fête,' visitors might encounter unique animations such as demonstrations with geese and sheepdogs, or even see adorable exhibitions of young goats and lambs.
These activities add a lively and educational dimension to the visit, making it memorable for all ages. 
Social
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