Château of Castlenaud
Standing since the 12th Century high over the Dordogne valley, with magnificent views of the châteaux of Beynac and Marqueyssac and the medieval village of La Roque-Gageac. During the Hundred Years War the château was often in English hands but was eventually taken back by the French. In the 17th Century it was rarely inhabited and even used as a stone quarry but in 1966 it was officially listed as a Historic Site and an enormous programme of restoration began. It is now given over entirely to the display of warfare in the Middle Ages, a collection of arms and armour and outside can be found actual size catapults and cannons.
Is by far the most important tourist site in the region and is also the capital of the Perigord Noir. Its worldwide reputation is linked with its rich history from the Middle Ages onwards. Its evolution over the centuries has left it with an exceptional heritage. Sarlat Market is a must for food lovers. There is a lively and cheerful atmosphere, the stalls are colourful and wonderful smells abound, all set against the background of a beautiful town with exceptional, historical architecture. Not to be missed.