Eyrignac Gardens - Image 1
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Eyrignac Gardens

4.6
·5k reviews·Salignac-Eyvigues, France

A 500-year-old family legacy of meticulously sculpted topiary gardens, offering a serene escape in the heart of the Dordogne.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blossoms and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Eyrignac Gardens - Image 1

Eyrignac Gardens

Best Time

Spring mornings

Blossoms and fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.6
(5k reviews)

"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!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Sculpted Greenery

The Sculpted Greenery

Throughout the gardens

Marvel at over 300 hand-sculpted trees and shrubs, a testament to centuries of dedication.

Instagram+1
The White Garden

The White Garden

Specific garden section

An elegant and serene space, perfect for quiet contemplation and stunning photography.

Instagram+1
The Chapel

The Chapel

Near the main house

Discover a small chapel featuring incredible stained-glass windows, offering a moment of peace.

Reddit
The Tea Room Delights

The Tea Room Delights

On-site cafe

Enjoy delicious desserts and drinks, with the rose ice cream being a standout recommendation.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photos and a more tranquil experience. Check for special events like the 'White Picnics' for a unique evening visit. Instagram

Embrace the Artistry

These are not just gardens; they are living sculptures. Take your time to appreciate the meticulous topiary work, the interplay of light and shadow, and the historical significance. Consider visiting with a knowledgeable guide or reading up beforehand to fully grasp the artistry. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Blossoms and fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Magical 'White Picnics'
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Golden light and crisp air
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tirs de traits à poudre depuis les remparts du @Château de Salignac lors de la première édition des Opusculaires XVe. Les riverains ont apprécié 😁 #medievaltiktok #moyenage #medieval #History #funny #kcd2
@genzdarmes1415
18.3K likes • 369.8K views

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking on various paths, so comfortable footwear is a must. Instagram

📸 Capture the Beauty

The gardens offer endless photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours. Instagram

The last day of our #mfchdordognetour found us touring the home and gardens of Patrick Sermadiras at Eyrignac. This tour has been a privilege from start to finish and I’m already looking forward to coming back next year @mfchtours @eyrignac
sharonsantoni
4.8K likes • 60.5K views
The Gardens of Eyrignac Manor 🌳🌿 Located close to Sarlat-la-Canéda in the Dordogne region of France, Eyrignac Manor is a feast to the eyes and has to be one of the most stunning gardens I have ever visited! It's been in the same family for 22 years and offers so much inspiration with various garden themes including water, flower, French formal and English landscaped gardens. I certainly believ...
shutters_and_stone
964 likes • 13.6K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners. Instagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully explore and appreciate the gardens. Reddit

The gardens at Eyrignac, 20 mins from Sarlat-la-Canéda are absolutely gorgeous. Even on a rainy day in January, so peaceful and quiet. Only the gardeners could be seen at work. The bare branches, moss on stone and the artistry of the sculpting of the greenery created a fairytale atmosphere. A deer even appeared in the lower garden. @eyrignac #travelfrance #eyrignac #eyrignacetsesjardins #...
dreaming_in_france
12 likes • 165 views

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. Instagram

📸 Capture the Beauty

The gardens offer endless photo opportunities, especially during the golden hours. Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Exploration

Well-behaved dogs are welcome, making it a great outing for pet owners. Instagram

⏳ Allow Ample Time

Plan for at least a couple of hours to fully explore and appreciate the gardens. Reddit

☕️ Savor the Treats

Don't miss the tea room for delightful refreshments, especially the famous rose ice cream. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(5k reviews)

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. Reddit

"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

Immaculate topiary art
Peaceful and serene atmosphere
Beautifully maintained gardens

What People Dislike

Slightly smaller than expected

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. InstagramReddit

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Yes, there is plenty of shaded parking available at the gardens, which is a significant plus for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! The gardens offer a magical atmosphere even on a rainy day, with moss on stone and bare branches creating a fairytale feel. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Information on discounts for seniors, students, or groups is best found on the official Eyrignac Gardens website or by contacting them directly. Reddit

Your admission ticket grants you access to explore all the themed gardens, enjoy the peaceful paths, and admire the topiary art. Instagram

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. Reddit

🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend around two to three hours exploring the gardens to fully appreciate their beauty and tranquility. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

The main attractions are the meticulously sculpted box hedges, themed gardens like the White Garden, peaceful seating areas, and the charming chapel. InstagramReddit

Yes, children can enjoy the open spaces and the unique shapes of the topiary. It's a visually stimulating environment for them to explore. Instagram

Photography is generally encouraged, and the gardens provide a stunning backdrop. However, be mindful of other visitors and avoid intrusive photography. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a tea room on-site where you can enjoy delicious desserts and drinks. Reddit

The rose ice cream is highly recommended and described as superb by visitors. Reddit

While there are seating areas, dedicated picnic spots might be limited. However, the 'White Picnics' offer a unique, organized evening dining experience. Instagram

Yes, the gardens are close to Sarlat-la-Canéda, which offers a wide range of restaurants and cafes for more extensive dining options. Instagram

The tea room generally operates during the garden's opening hours, but it's best to confirm specific times on their website. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram

The White Garden, the meticulously sculpted topiaries, the arched cedar trees, and the chapel with its stained glass are all highly photogenic. InstagramReddit+1

Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the garden management beforehand, especially if you plan on professional photography. Instagram

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Eyrignac Gardens offer a visually stimulating and spacious environment for families. Children can enjoy exploring the different garden paths and discovering the unique shapes of the sculpted greenery. The open lawns provide space for them to move around, and the overall peaceful atmosphere is conducive to a relaxed family outing. Instagram

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. Reddit

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Eyrignac Gardens are a dream destination. The meticulously maintained topiary provides endless opportunities for striking compositions, especially during the golden hours of early morning and late afternoon when the light is soft and flattering. Instagram The variety of garden styles, from formal French parterres to more intimate nooks, ensures a diverse portfolio. Instagram

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. Instagram Be mindful of other visitors and consider visiting during off-peak hours for the best shots. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Leisurely Strollers

If you prefer a relaxed pace, Eyrignac Gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The peaceful paths and numerous seating areas invite visitors to pause, reflect, and simply soak in the beauty. Reddit The gardens are well-maintained, making walking comfortable, and the relatively compact size (compared to vast estates) means you can enjoy a thorough exploration without feeling overwhelmed. Reddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Topiary at Eyrignac

Eyrignac Gardens are renowned for their exceptional topiary art, a practice that has been refined over centuries. The gardens feature over 300 hand-sculpted trees and shrubs, primarily boxwood (buxus) and yew, meticulously shaped into geometric forms, spheres, cones, and even animal figures. This dedication to shaping greenery into living sculptures is what sets Eyrignac apart as a 'Remarkable Garden of France'. Instagram+2

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. Instagram

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. InstagramReddit

A Family Legacy of Greenery

The Eyrignac Gardens are a testament to a family legacy that spans over 500 years and 22 generations. This deep-rooted history is palpable as you wander through the grounds, each corner reflecting the care and vision passed down through the family. The gardens are not merely a tourist attraction but a living heritage, continuously nurtured and evolved by the Sermadiras family. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

Experiencing Eyrignac: Beyond the Visual

While Eyrignac Gardens are a feast for the eyes, the experience extends to other senses, offering a holistic retreat. The tranquil atmosphere is often highlighted, with visitors mentioning the peaceful paths, quiet seating areas, and the soothing sound of birdsong. This creates an environment conducive to relaxation and reflection. Reddit

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

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