Commarque Castle: The Forgotten Fortress of the Périgord Noir
A medieval fortress
An exceptional site
Located in the heart of the Périgord Noir, the Château de Commarque is an exceptional site that combines a medieval fortress, prehistoric ruins, and natural beauty.
With its millennia-old history, immersive tour, and activities for the whole family, it’s one of the must-see attractions in Les Eyzies and at our campground in the Dordogne!
In a nutshell
Key Takeaways
The season is filled with a variety of activities: medieval and prehistoric workshops, treasure hunts, escape games, and summer evening events with illuminations.
The tour takes you on foot through the forest and along the cliffs, past tower houses, a chapel, and a keep, with a spectacular view of the Périgord Noir.
The Château de Commarque is a 12th-century medieval castrum perched on a rocky outcrop in the heart of the Beune Valley, in Les Eyzies.
Open from April through October, the castle offers self-guided and guided tours, affordable admission prices, and convenient services to ensure a great family outing.
A little history
A spectacular medieval site nestled between cliffs and forest
In the heart of the Beune Valley, in Les Eyzies, the Château de Commarque stands on a rocky outcrop, surrounded by unspoiled nature.
Founded in the 12th century, this unique medieval castrum comprised a keep, a chapel, and tower houses within a single fortified complex.
Abandoned over the centuries, the Château de Commarque was saved beginning in 1968 thanks to Hubert de Commarque, who undertook its restoration. Designated a Historic Monument, this site also features a decorated prehistoric cave dating back 15,000 years.
Review of Le Val De La Marquise Campground: Visiting the Château de Commarqueis like taking a journey through history, from prehistory to the Middle Ages, in a spectacular setting!
An immersive tour through the heart of the castrum
Where to eat in Beynac?
A tour of the Château de Commarque is done on foot, along a path that winds through the forest, past cliffs, and among medieval ruins.
We gradually explore the castrum, which consists of tower houses, stately residences, and a chapel, before reachingthe impressive keep perched atop the rock.
Throughout the trail, signs and educational displays help visitors understand the layout of the site and the way of life of the lords of Commarque. The climb is rewarded with a spectacular view of the Beune Valley.
A tip from Le Val De La Marquise Campground: allow about one to two hours to fully enjoy this timeless walk, which can be taken on your own or as a guided tour, depending on the time of year.
Activities and entertainment
Fun and immersive activities for the whole family
At the Château de Commarque, your visit becomes a true adventure thanks to a wide range of activities for all ages. At no extra charge, take part in fun workshops during school breaks: traditional music, stone carving, medieval calligraphy, crossbow and archery, and much more.
Younger visitors can have fun with the ” Game of the 7 Chests,” an exciting treasure hunt along the trail.
To keep the magic going, Commarque offers themed escape games in the dungeon, as well as “Mysteries & Lights” evening events in the summer, when the castle lights up and is transformed into a magical setting.
These unique evenings combine stories, light shows, entertainment, and a warm, friendly atmosphere throughout the site!
The highlight of Le Val De La Marquise Campground: the escape game in the dungeon. Deep within the fortress, participants must solve puzzles and mysteries locked away in the dungeon. Inspired by a local legend, this immersive escape game blends history, suspense, and problem-solving. It’s a unique and fun way to explore the site!
An immersive tour through the heart of the castrum
Commarque Castle: Practical Information
Are you planning to visit the Château de Commarque in Les Eyzies? Plan your visit in advance!
Here’s everything you need to know:
- Address: Route du Château de Commarque, 24620 Les Eyzies – GPS coordinates: 44°55’47.31’’ N 1°06’18.23’’ E – 16 km from our campground.
- Dates and hours: from early April to early October, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (7:30 p.m. in July and August, and 6:30 p.m. from May through the end of June).
- Prices: €10.50 for adults, €7 for children (free for children under 6). Payment accepted in cash, by credit card, and with vacation checks.
- Guided tours: during school breaks and on certain holidays (reservations: at reservation@commarque.com).
- Contact: 05 53 59 00 25 – contact@commarque.com.
- Other amenities: picnic area, gift shop, food trucks (in season). Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash; free parking.
Are you planning to visit this castle in the Dordogne? Be sure to book your mobile home, campsite, tent lodge, or chalet at Le Val de la Marquise campground—just 20 minutes away!
Sources:
https://www.dordogne-perigord-tourisme.fr/experiences/journee-inoubliable-chateau-commarque/
https://commarque.com/
https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_de_Commarque
