A red silhouette in the landscape

La silhouette de Castelnau-Bretenoux se détachant dans le ciel

It's hard not to notice it from miles around... Castelnau-Bretenoux castle is the ideal place to "see and be seen"!

At the crossroads of the valleys

Castelnau-Bretenoux is located in the "four rivers" region, where the Dordogne, Bave, Cère and Mamoul rivers meet. Surrounded by these valleys, it is not unusual to see it emerge from a thick cloak of mist enveloping the surrounding countryside...

Le château de Castelnau-Bretenoux visible au-dessus de la brume
© Pascal Lemaître - Centre des monuments nationaux

Up on the hill...

The castle is not really built on a hill, but on a promontory. This rocky outcrop of limestone is part of the Limargue plateau, a land of hills and valleys in transition between the Quercy limestone plateaux and the foothills of the Massif Central. The imposing monument dominates the landscape from a height of 204 metres, and can be seen from many vantage points in the surrounding area.

But why this red colour? Its curtain walls are red because the sandstone limestone of the promontory is rich in iron oxide. The many roads approaching Castelnau offer brightly coloured profiles that are as varied as they are memorable!

Le château de Castelnau-Bretenoux sur son promontoire
© Pascal Lemaître - Centre des monuments nationaux

A 360° panoramic view!

Once you're inside the castle, take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape! As you stroll along the grassy terraces, open your eyes wide to admire the village of Castelnau at the foot of the hill, or the beautiful village of Loubressac on the hill opposite! In fine weather, you can sometimes see the Château de Turennefrom the balcony of honour... We particularly recommend climbing to the top of the artillery tower: after the 283 steps, the reward is well worth it!