Built heritage

Castles and fortresses

The region is teeming with fortresses and elegant residences. You're sure to admire their impressive architecture.

• Le Château de Puycharnaud Located in Saint-Estèphe itself, this château is a perfect example of the local heritage and a must-see just a stone's throw away.
• Le Château de Puyguilhem The Chateau: Just a 20-minute drive away, this Renaissance gem is an elegant residence well worth a visit. Its architecture and sculpted decor are remarkable.
• Le Bourdeilles Castle This unique site has two faces, combining an imposing medieval fortress with a sumptuous Renaissance dwelling.
• Le Château de Jumilhac Périgord-Limousin: Recognisable by its extravagant roofs, this fairytale castle stands proudly, marking the entrance to the Périgord-Limousin region. It is both imposing and romantic.
• Le Château de Montbrun : Situated in the Haute-Vienne, less than an hour from Saint-Estèphe, this medieval castle was rebuilt after a siege in the 16th century. Its imposing silhouette and moat make it an emblematic site on the routes of Richard the Lionheart.
• La Piégut Tower Piégut-Pluviers: This imposing keep is the last vestige of a castle that was besieged by Richard the Lionheart's troops in 1199, shortly before his death. It stands in the heart of the town of Piégut-Pluviers.
• Le Chalus Castle The castle: This is a major historic site for the region, as it was here that Richard the Lionheart was mortally wounded in 1199, during the siege of the castle. His entrails are said to lie in the castle chapel.

Villages of character

Some of the villages in the region are real gems, perfect for a stroll or further exploration.

• Brantôme The Dronne: Nicknamed the «Venice of the Périgord», this town is built on an island in the Dronne. Its troglodyte abbey and picturesque streets make it an exceptional site, less than 30 minutes away by car.
• Saint-Jean-de-Côle Classified as one of the «Most Beautiful Villages in France», this medieval village is a rare beauty with its half-timbered houses, its castle and its old bridge over the river Côle.
• Nontron Périgord Vert: Capital of the Périgord Vert region, this small town is famous for its handmade knife. Its town centre and hilltops offer magnificent views over the Bandiat valley.

Sites of remembrance and history

• Oradour-sur-Glane Less than an hour from Saint-Estèphe, this martyred village was destroyed and its inhabitants massacred on 10 June 1944. Its ruins have been preserved as they were, to ensure that the memory never dies.

Religious sites and unusual heritage

The region's heritage is not limited to its châteaux. There are also a number of lesser-known but equally fascinating monuments.

• Le Badeix Priory Also in the commune of Saint-Estèphe, this priory is a vestige of a former monastery. It bears witness to local religious history.
• Le Tourtoirac bridge The medieval bridge over the River Auvézère, located on a pilgrimage route, is a fine example of early local architecture.

The heritage around Saint-Estèphe is both varied and easily accessible. As you explore these places, you'll discover not just old stones, but the very soul of the Périgord Vert.