Eyrignac Gardens
A 500-year-old family legacy of meticulously sculpted topiary gardens, offering a serene escape in the heart of the Dordogne.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Eyrignac Gardens
Best Time
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 500-year-old family legacy of meticulously sculpted topiary gardens, offering a serene escape in the heart of the Dordogne.
"This is my newest all-time favorite garden in France. A 500+ year old garden filled with carefully curated topiaries, peaceful paths and places to repose, and tranquil spaces filled with endless birdsong? Yes please!"
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths, so comfortable footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer endless photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sculpted Greenery
Throughout the gardens
Marvel at over 300 hand-sculpted trees and shrubs, a testament to centuries of dedication.
The White Garden
Specific garden section
An elegant and serene space, perfect for quiet contemplation and stunning photography.
The Chapel
Near the main house
Discover a small chapel featuring incredible stained-glass windows, offering a moment of peace.
The Tea Room Delights
On-site cafe
Enjoy delicious desserts and drinks, with the rose ice cream being a standout recommendation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Artistry
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths, so comfortable footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer endless photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully explore and appreciate the gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths, so comfortable footwear is a must.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The gardens offer endless photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration
Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully explore and appreciate the gardens.
☕️ Savor the Treats
Don't miss the tea room for delightful refreshments, especially the famous rose ice cream.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Eyrignac Gardens for their immaculate condition, stunning topiary artistry, and peaceful ambiance. Many describe it as a truly beautiful and inspiring place, perfect for a relaxing couple of hours. While some found it slightly smaller than anticipated, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with staff noted for their politeness and the tea room's rose ice cream being a delightful highlight.
"Stunning gardens and a delightful experience
A truly beautiful and peaceful place. The gardens are perfectly maintained, with impressive topiary, lush lawns, and charming details throughout. Highlights include quiet seating areas, arched cedar trees, and a small chapel with incredible stained-glass windows.
The cafe was average (reviewed separately)
There’s also plenty of shaded parking. Highly recommended definitely a five star review."
Alex Sheldon
"Beautiful gardens that are immaculatey kept, but it's slightly smaller than we expected .
Lovely restaurant, and we highly recommend the Rose Ice Cream it's superb.
The staff are very polite and informative .
It is a nice place to visit and to spend a couple of hours ."
Steve Darch
"This is my newest all-time favorite garden in France. A 500+ year old garden filled with carefully curated topiaries, peaceful paths and places to repose, and tranquil spaces filled with endless birdsong? Yes please!
We also enjoyed delicious desserts and drinks in the tea room afterwards. What a delight from start to finish!"
Susan Gallotte
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Eyrignac Gardens are conveniently located about 20 minutes from Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne region. Driving is the most common method, with ample shaded parking available on-site.
Public transport options are limited in this rural area. Renting a car or using a taxi service from Sarlat is generally recommended for ease of access.
The gardens are typically open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours, especially during off-season.
Yes, there is plenty of shaded parking available at the gardens, which is a significant plus for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! The gardens offer a magical atmosphere even on a rainy day, with moss on stone and bare branches creating a fairytale feel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are reasonable for the experience. While specific prices can vary, it's generally considered good value for the immaculate condition and beauty of the gardens. Check their official website for current pricing.
Booking in advance is usually not necessary for general entry, as tickets can be purchased upon arrival. However, for special events like the 'White Picnics', advance booking is essential.
Information on discounts for seniors, students, or groups is best found on the official Eyrignac Gardens website or by contacting them directly.
Your admission ticket grants you access to explore all the themed gardens, enjoy the peaceful paths, and admire the topiary art.
Typically, re-entry policies depend on the specific ticket purchased and the garden's regulations. It's advisable to inquire at the entrance if you plan to leave and return.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend around two to three hours exploring the gardens to fully appreciate their beauty and tranquility.
While not always explicitly advertised, the staff are often described as polite and informative, and you can learn a lot by observing the gardeners at work.
The main attractions are the meticulously sculpted box hedges, themed gardens like the White Garden, peaceful seating areas, and the charming chapel.
Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces and the unique shapes of the topiary. It's a visually stimulating environment for them to explore.
Photography is generally encouraged, and the gardens provide a stunning backdrop. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a tea room on-site where you can enjoy delicious desserts and drinks.
The rose ice cream is highly recommended and described as superb by visitors.
While there are seating areas, dedicated picnic spots might be limited. However, the 'White Picnics' offer a unique, organized evening dining experience.
Yes, the gardens are close to Sarlat-la-Canéda, which offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes for more extensive dining options.
The tea room generally operates during the garden's opening hours, but it's best to confirm specific times on their website.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late afternoons, during the golden hours, offer the most beautiful light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a magical ambiance.
The White Garden, the meticulously sculpted topiaries, the arched cedar trees, and the chapel with its stained glass are all highly photogenic.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the garden management beforehand, especially if you plan on professional photography.
Topiary art, landscape photography, and capturing the serene atmosphere are very popular. The gardens also host special events like 'White Picnics' which are great for event photography.
Drone usage is typically restricted in garden settings to ensure the peace and safety of visitors. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted without special authorization.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there aren't specific playgrounds, the sheer novelty of the topiary art can capture young imaginations. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to the beauty of formal gardens and the dedication involved in their upkeep. Remember to bring comfortable shoes for little feet and perhaps a small snack, though the tea room offers treats.
📸 Photographers' Paradise
Key photographic highlights include the elegant White Garden, the intricate patterns of the sculpted hedges, and the charming chapel with its stained-glass windows. The gardens are also known for hosting special events like the 'White Picnics', which offer unique lighting and atmospheric opportunities. Be mindful of other visitors and consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best shots.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Strollers
Take your time to appreciate the details – the textures of the boxwood, the play of light through the leaves, and the subtle scents of the flora. The tea room offers a perfect spot to rest and enjoy a refreshment midway through your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Topiary at Eyrignac
The artistry is not just in the shapes but also in the maintenance. Gardeners like Olivier, who has worked at Eyrignac for 24 years, dedicate their lives to this craft, ensuring the gardens remain immaculate. This ongoing commitment preserves the historical integrity and visual splendor of the gardens, making each visit a testament to horticultural mastery.
Visitors often express awe at the precision and scale of the topiary work, finding it both inspiring and peaceful. The various themed gardens, from the formal French style to more naturalistic settings, showcase the versatility of topiary and its ability to create distinct atmospheres.
A Family Legacy of Greenery
This long-standing stewardship ensures a unique continuity and dedication to preserving the gardens' original charm while incorporating subtle modern touches. The family's passion is evident in the immaculate condition of the gardens and the warm welcome visitors receive. It’s this personal connection that transforms a garden visit into a truly special experience.
Visitors often remark on the peacefulness and the feeling of stepping back in time, a sentiment undoubtedly influenced by the enduring family presence and their commitment to horticultural excellence. The gardens are a beautiful example of how tradition and passion can create lasting beauty.
Experiencing Eyrignac: Beyond the Visual
For a truly unique experience, consider attending one of the 'White Picnics' held during the summer evenings. These events transform the gardens into a magical setting with white attire, soft music, and an elegant ambiance, offering a memorable way to enjoy the gardens after dark.
Furthermore, the on-site tea room provides a delightful opportunity to savor local flavors, with the rose ice cream being a particular favorite. This culinary aspect adds another layer to the visit, allowing guests to indulge their taste buds while surrounded by natural beauty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit