To visit Turenne like a Gaillard, this is the best way: from the “100% Gaillard” tourist office, take the street after the café (take advantage of this to find your way on the tour map which is displayed in this street and which directs you all the visiting points), then take the street which climbs steeply, twice to the left and you are at the top of the village. Each building of historical interest is indicated by a wall plaque which will give you explanations. 

Exploring the castle of Turenne

Established since the 11th century by the Viscounts of Comborn at the top of the cornice on the 1 m² available (200 x 260 m), the fortified castle now only has imposing remains. This demolition, ordered by Louis XV and awarded in 60, owes nothing to the Revolutionaries, but to the purchase of the Viscounty by the King of France.

View of the tower of Turenne castle from the gardens

What to visit at the Château de Turenne

  • Defending the entrance to the castle, the massive, rectangular keep dates from the 13th century (Treasury Tower or Clock Tower). It offers a plunging view of the town and the Martel and Gramat causses. Two large vaulted rooms are open to the public: the Guard Room with its impressive fireplace, its Louis XVIII furniture and its collection of salt chests. You can also discover the majestic Treasure Room, 10 meters high.
  • On the site of the platform occupied by the gardens, a vast and sumptuous main building extended.
  • Opposite the keep, the round tower, called the Caesar tower (12th - 13th century) served as an observatory. You can access its summit by a spiral staircase to benefit from very wide panoramas, well beyond the Dordogne valley to the south, and in favorable weather as far as the Cantal mountains. 

A garden suspended between sky and earth

The hanging garden at Château de Turenne is a serene oasis of formal gardens and grand English-style parterres. Pines and cypress trees give the garden a southern charm, while boxwood and flowerbeds create a tranquil and relaxing space. Created in 1920, the garden replaced the vines that once filled the medieval courtyard, offering visitors a pleasant place to make the most of the incredible panoramic views.

The garden is also part of an ongoing ecological project, emphasizing biodiversity and sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting and organic gardening methods.

An ideal venue for weddings and events

With its stunning views and historic charm, Château de Turenne is a dream location for weddings and private events. The hanging garden, perched 350 metres above the valley, provides a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and receptions. The château’s historic rooms can also be booked, ensuring a memorable experience whatever the weather.

For couples looking to create unforgettable memories, the château offers tailor-made services, from gourmet catering to silent dance parties, where guests can spend the night with wireless headphones. Whether it’s a wedding, anniversary or special celebration, Château de Turenne offers a magical setting that will leave a lasting impression.

Guided tours of Turenne

Discover the village of Turenne in the company of a guide who will tell you its history and show you its heritage. You can find other ideas for visits accompanied by here.

Historical tour

  • Wednesdays and Fridays at 10 a.m. and 15 p.m. in July and August. Meet in front of the Tourist Office.
  • Fees: €5 (€2 for 50-6 year olds). Booking is recommended.
  • Duration: 1h30 - Information 05.55.24.08.80 service.accueil@brive-tourisme.com

Interactive costume tours:

Immerse yourself in the history of Turenne, capital of the Viscounty, dressed in period costumes. You will have fun becoming a knight, noble lady or squire for the duration of a visit while reading skits about the life of the Turennois in the Middle Ages.

  • These nocturnal and costumed event visits are planned on July 22 and 29, but also August 5 and 12.
  • Prices: €8 for adults and for children: €4 from 6 to 12 years old, free for children under 6 – meet in front of the Tourist Office at 20 p.m. (for departure at 20:30 p.m. – registration required as the number of places is limited)

You can book your guided tours online: 

Book

The Kope

La Kopé des créateurs is the first cooperative of craftsmen and creators in Corrèze. Spread over two shops, this cooperative brings together 16 craftsmen-creators, and as many know-how and universes. There are creations for all tastes and all budgets. Jewelry, lighting, wooden toys, decorative objects in wood, ceramic, leather, leather goods, cutlery, floral and plant art, textile creations, cosmetics, soaps…. All these creations are the fruit of the work of local craftsmen and creators. Based in Corrèze, Cantal, Dordogne or Haute-Vienne, they offer a wide choice of their creations, resulting from their know-how and their passion. 

Pratical information

Prepare your visit to the castle

The Castle is open all year round. For more information, contact the castle on 05 19 31 02 68 or the Tourist Office 05 55 24 08 80. 

  • Opening dates and times:
    - March 30 to June and September to November 3: 10:30 a.m. to 18 p.m.
     Fridays, Saturdays
    - JULY – AUGUST: 10:30 a.m. – 19:30 p.m.
  • Reception of groups partial privatization or total privatization possible outside opening hours.
  • Prices:
    - Adults: € 7,90
    - Under 18s, students, unemployed, people with disabilities and groups of 12 people or more: €6.50 upon presentation of proof
    - Children: €5.90
    - Children under 7 years old: Free
  • An app for visiting : the application supports you in all aspects of the visit: History of the Viscounty, visit to the Château and its hanging garden, discovery of its panoramas and the exhibition. A more fun version for children is also available.
  • The Gourmet Kiosk : gourmet break offered with the best products from Quercy, Périgord and Limousin, to be enjoyed in the castle gardens. 

Visit Turenne freely with a map of the village

View the interactive map without downloading:

Map

If you wish, a map of the village will be given to you at the Tourist Office reception desk and is accompanied by explanations allowing you to discover this listed village in detail. It can also be downloaded below: 

Headlight

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