French gardens
Since the 17th century, Hautefort has been home to formal gardens that have been redeveloped over the years. Come and admire them at the foot of the château.
Free guided tour every day
The only formal gardens in Dordogne
Trace the history of Dordogne's only French gardens. The art of French gardens culminated in the 17th century with the work of André Le Nôtre for the Château de Versailles, whose genius inspired the courts of Europe for a long time to come. It was on this model that the gardens at Hautefort were designed in the time of the Marquis Jacques-François. They feature the order and symmetry typical of the classical style, with the traditional plant sculptures (known as topiaries) recalling elements of the château's architecture. Today, continuing to combine passion and expertise, our gardeners skilfully shape these 3 hectares of formal gardens, combining traditional methods with rational management of the landscape heritage.
A view of the Dordogne landscape
The gardens of Hautefort, perched on a rocky spur, offer a spectacular view of the Dordogne landscape and its verdant valleys. Designed in keeping with classical aesthetics, this geometric garden enhances the majesty of château de Hautefort and naturally guides the eye towards the horizon. From the square courtyard, the panorama stretches out over a rolling landscape of forests and meadows, with an uninterrupted view of the Petite Cité de Caractère of Hautefort. Between nature and heritage, the Hautefort estate invites you to contemplate the seasons, immersing yourself in the history and beauty of the Périgord region.
Boxwood sculptures and embroidery from the 17th century
Inherited from the 17th century, the formal gardens of Hautefort underwent a complete overhaul in 1853 at the request of Baron Maxence de Damas. He commissioned the Comte de Choulot to draw up an ambitious plan that reflected his desire to integrate the château, gardens, park and surrounding landscape into a coherent and valuable whole. The former forecourt was laid out as formal gardens, with lawn parterres bordered by flowerbeds. Another ordered parterre was created at the foot of the courtyard terrace. The transformation of the gardens continued in the 20th century under the Baron and Baroness de Bastard.
On the esplanade, a green gallery of Canadian cedar, lined by a boxwood parterre, replaces the former outbuildings destroyed at the end of the 19th century. The flowerbeds designed by Choulot have been preserved, but the lawns and flowers have been replaced by boxwood and topiary (the art of sculpting plants). The terrace to the north is also planted with pruned boxwood, alternating with yew columns. Set out on terraces around the château, the formal gardens form a green setting for an unforgettable stroll.
Historic gardens in Dordogne
Our outstanding gardens in Dordogne
The gardens in figures
Hautefort is more than 3 hectares of boxwood beds punctuated by surprisingly shaped topiaries, pruned entirely by hand twice a year. This represents more than 1,800 hours of work every year. A more unusual feature is the planted pergola, a long tunnel of greenery almost 70 metres long, where you can cool off. The huge espalier of magnolias overlooks the Hautefort flowerbed, made up of 10,000 boxwood plants... 20 years is the time it takes for them to reach a height of 40 cm.
Taking action for the planet
The château de Hautefort Foundation is firmly committed to preserving natural resources and has been implementing a policy of sustainable management of green spaces for several years. For example, 100% of boxwood pruning is carried out using hand shears, and 30% for yew pruning. Shredded plants are used to make mulch, which reduces evaporation and enriches the soil. Particular attention is also paid to water resource management. The boxwood species present at Hautefort, «suffruticosa», was chosen in particular because of its resistance to periods of drought.
To discover
Gardens, panoramas and treasures of the estate to extend your visit and savour all the richness of Hautefort.
The classic castle
Discover Dordogne's only classic castle and its immersive experiences to immerse yourself in its history.
French gardens
Since the 17th century, Hautefort has been home to formal gardens that have been redeveloped over the years. Come and admire them at the foot of the château.
The English park
Born in the 18th century, the English park celebrates a wilder, more poetic nature. At Hautefort, it extends over more than 30 hectares.
Not to be missed
After a tour of the 17th century and the basement, don't miss three must-sees: the chapel, the Brittany tower and the communal oven.
Restaurant and shop
Discover our new restaurant, relax in the shop and take home a genuine souvenir of Hautefort!
Daily entertainment
Every day, your ticket includes free events: a guided tour of the gardens and château, and a bread oven workshop for all the family.