If you are ever in the vicinity don't
skip a visit to the Jardins de
Marqueyssac – these gardens are really something to see. You'll find these
super gardens just a short drive from Sarlat.
We arrived at lunchtime so before
visiting, we ate lunch in the Salon du The - at a table under an awning on a
terrace with wonderful views of the Dordogne. Peacocks wandering along by the
table. I had the formule – or fixed menu - which was a tuna/cheese salad
followed by a strawberry tart and accompanied by a glass of white wine. My
better half went for a salmon quiche (which was very good) followed by tarte
aux pommes (apple tart) The total cost was about 30 Euro
After lunch we walked around - with ideas
of finding the belvedere until we realised just how far away it was -
temperatures in the high 20's and sunny - and we didn't have any water. And of
course we missed the little carts you could catch to avoid the walk which we
didn't know about until too late.
The chateau itself is not much except for
the limestone slab roof which is incredibly heavy - more than 300 tons.
The gardens are a National Historical
Monument. It is part of a private estate. It has only been open to the public
since 1997.
The gardens overlook the entire Dordogne
Valley - an exceptional panoramic view. The gardens are made up largely of
shaped boxwoods - not that many flowers.
The main construction of the garden and
walks is from the end of the 19th Century. The estate fell into
disarray and was only restored in 1996. They do candlelight evenings as well
which would be quite something to see.
Great photos. I wonder how a stone slab roof stays up? Amazing architecture.
ReplyDeleteThat looks like a beautiful vacation. When were you there?
ReplyDeletebest... mae at maefood.blogspot.com