Location: Domme, Aquitaine, France, Europe (5km from Domme, 12 Km from Sarlat, 1 Hr from Bergerac Airpor) View Map
Accommodations: Castle, 5 Bedrooms + No additional sleeping rooms avail, 4.5 Baths (Sleeps 14)
Keywords: Chateau, Castle, Villa, Manor House, Castello, Maison de Maitre
**AS SEEN IN THE JAN 2011 ISSUE OF "HOMES & ANTIQUES" (UK)" and in Aug 2010 ELLE Decoration "13 Most Beautiful Vacation Homes in the World". Sitting high atop a hill between the villages of Domme and Castelnaud, Chateau du Peyruzel is a 13th century Medieval Chateau and officially-listed Historical Monument. Carved from the ancient bedrock in the Middle Ages to loom high as a lair and fortress to hiding princes and clashing armies, this magnificently-restored Chateau, with a listed history from 1281, stands on its sprawling 10 acres/4 hectares of property, guarding over the pristine valleys below, as it has for over 750 years.
With stunning 320° views from every window of its four towers, and only minutes from other well-known Chateaux and the beautiful towns of Sarlat and La Roque-Gageac, this magnificently-maintained medieval gem is ideally positioned in the heart of the Perigord Noir to take advantage of all the area has to offer. With massive stone walls and a magnificent century spiral stone staircase that rises 5 stories, this ancient Chateau that was built as a fortress and played a major role in the 100 Years War, tells of a time gone-by while offering all the luxurious touches of today. With 14 ft high ceilings of walnut beams, and wooden chestnut floors, the massive spaces inside the four-storey Chateau offer rooms befitting kings and nobles. The Chateau in comprised of four square towers joined together to form the shape of a Maltese Cross, which allows the sun to pour in from each of the massive windows all through the day.
On the first two floors you’ll find the public rooms including a brand new, entirely modern kitchen built in an style befitting the Chateau's history; the magnificent “Salle a Manger” (dining room) with huge open stone fireplace and a table that seats 14; the huge “Salon” (living room) with its stone fireplace and door to the terrace and medieval, walled garden; a Library complete with TV/DVD and wi-fi; and a cozy “Salle de Reception” - for breakfast, lunch or a glass of wine before dinner. The top two floors contain the private rooms, and are home to five magnificent double bedrooms including one in the ancient “Salle d’Armes”, with its incredible four poster bed and medieval stone sink, facing the massive fireplace. Stunning views abound from the ceiling-high windows as you gaze through the massive stone walls to the valleys below - with incredible sunrises and sunsets. The current owners purchased the Chateau in January 2008 and all the rooms and bathrooms have been carefully renovated to a style befitting their historical past: decorated and newly-furnished with antiques and fabrics to match. With luxurious beds and beautiful linens, nothing has been overlooked for your enjoyment and comfort.
Outdoors the many terraces and the massive walled, medieval garden sets you above the valley below, while providing wonderful areas to enjoy the tranquility and silence that the grassy park affords you. The beautiful pool (45ft by 18ft) and stone-floored pool house is a magnificent spot to spend sunny days and evenings by the barbecue, watching the sun set. This hilltop haven also includes your own private forest where you can wander and explore. Due to its incredible position, it sits above the fray of the life around it, seeming to be lost above the clouds. On the grounds you'll also find a caretaker's cottage (empty) and a large double-storey barn. The barn functions as a wonderful event space where we stage weddings, anniversaries and special events. The large, beautiful stone barn easily seats 100 - 150 at tables as well as a dance floor. We also offer full wedding and event planning with florist, private chef, DJ, stylist, photographer and all rental included (tables, chairs, linens, tents, glasses, plates etc.) co-ordinated for you specifically.
The Chateau is absolutely ideal for 5 couples traveling together (where everyone has a large double room), or for a family get-together or special occasion. If you're considering an anniversary or a wedding, let us and know and we'd be happy to help you. The extent of the gardens and grounds with magnificent views of the valley as well as the Chateau, offer an ideal spot for incredible photos to commemorate your occasion. The chateau sleeps 14 in bedrooms. There are 4.5 bathrooms and 6 toilets.
Just down the road from magnificent sites and other famous chateaux like Chateau des Millandes, Beynac and Castelnaud, your own private Chateau is an ideal base for exploring the area. Find your way up to Domme, just minutes away, or to Sarlat to take part in their famous markets. The village of Daglan is minutes down the hill where you can find a daily supermarket, and a wonderful restaurant where you can dine outdoors while looking up at the Chateau. Wonderful walks through the Chateau’s private forest open out into hikes down the hill to the Céou river which runs from the Dordogne. Other restaurants and shopping opportunities abound with all the richness of the area's famous pre-history as well. Take a drive up to the Lascaux caves, or visit nearby Cahors for wine-tasting.
Chateau du Peyruzel, listed in 1948 as a "Monument Historique", still looks down on the hamlet of Le Peyruzel that served it during feudal times. Driving through the massive entry gates, you will find that your every comfort has been attended to as you cross the threshold back in time, and begin living the life that has been within these massive stone walls for more than 750 years. Photos and mention of Chateau du Peyruzel can be found in many guide books and on many other property sites of the area, but rather than staying nearby and looking UP at the Chateau, now have an opportunity to stay IN the Chateau that everyone else has on their highest horizon.
Vacation Rental Features
- Amenities
- Washer
- Dryer
- Linens Provided : All white, top-quality cotton linens and white towels are provided. Both feather and foam pillows are also provided.
- Garage : A lock-up garage for 2 cars can be provided if required
- Covered Parking : See above
- Off Street Parking : Once through the massive gates of the Chateau (which lock), there is parking for any number of cars.
- Parking for RV/Boat/Trailer : With 10 acres, there is parking for whatever you'd like!
- Wood Fireplace (3) : Massive, walk-in size, ancient fireplaces in all the main rooms as well as a bedroom.
- Beds
- King Bed
- Queen Bed (5)
- Twin/Single Bed (2)
- Convertible Bed (2) : We have 2 "roll-away" beds which can be added to any bedroom
- Crib (2) : Available on request
- Entertainment
- Cable/Satellite TV (2)
- DVD
- Video Library : We have a library of DVD's for your use.
- CD Player
- Private Pool : A magnificent pool with attached pool house has surrounding views of the area. Also a barbecue and both a covered and open air outdoor living area with pergola adjoins the pool area.
- Kitchen
- Full Kitchen : We have a large 110cm wide professional cooker with 6 cooking spots, 2 ovens, as well as a warming draw and a separate broiler/grill. The kitchen also has coffee maker, food processor, blender and toaster. All are new. There is a second room that functions as a smaller kitchen, the "Salle de reception", which has a fridge, sink, microwave, toaster and coffee maker.
- Cooking Utensils Provided : Utensils and glasses for 16 as well as blender, food processor and all modern appliances like coffee makers and toasters.
- Refrigerator (3) : In addition to the 3 refrigerators we have one at the Poolhouse for your drinks.
- Dishwasher
- Microwave (2) : We have 2 microwaves in the house and 1 at the poolhouse.
- Catering Available : We have a highly-regarded chef who lives locally and will provide traditional, or "gastronomique" cuisine for you and your group at the chateau.
- Outdoor Features
- Gas/Electric BBQ Grill : This is at the poolhouse.
- Charcoal BBQ Grill : There is a built-in barbecue at the back terrace.
- Deck/Patio (4) : One of the terraces comes off the Salon at the second floor level, with steps down on to the level below and the medieval, walled garden with a large outdoor dining table, chairs and umbrella on a second patio terrace. There is a large, paved, covered area at the pool, as well as a fourth terrace at the back of the pool house facing towards the front gates. A fifth terrace is off the dining room.
- View/Location
- Monument View : SInce we are a listed Historical Monument I guess we classify as having a "Monument View" of Chateau Peyruzel.
- Communications
- Telephone (2) : This is available for your use, for free.
- Free Long Distance : Free international calls and French calls
- Broadband Internet
- WiFi (Wireless Internet) : Bring your own laptop
- Other Amenities
- Housekeeping included 3 times a week (for 3 hours at a time). Weddings and events also available with full-time event planner at this Registered Historical Monument ("Monument Historique") 13th century Chateau on hilltop with 320° views of valley below.
- Suitability
- No Pets Allowed
- Not Suitable for Children : The chateau is not recommended for younger children, for example under the age of 8, because of the large, stone, spiral staircase which is not protected by a gate or bannister and therefore might be hazardous to running children. Babies who are not walking are no problem. In additiona, the presence of many antiques and expensive furnishings would require extra vigilance on the part of the parents. However, it is completely up to the parents as to what might be appropriate for their children, and children over 10 would be very comfortable and welcome.
- Minimum Age Limit for Renters : See above.
- Smoking Not Allowed
- Activities
- Golf
- Tennis
- Shopping
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Waterskiing
- Jet Skiing
- Swimming
- Biking
- Mountain Biking
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Antiquing
- Miniature golf
- Horseback Riding
- Hot Air Ballooning
- Hiking
- Spelunking
- Restaurants
- Cinemas/Movie Theaters
- Museums
- Other Activities
- Out-door markets, wine-tasting, mushroom-hunting, canoeing. The owner will also provide historical tours in English, as well as wine and cheese tastings, along with event planning for your special day.
Rate Details (In Euros)
Late Fall 2011 - 1 November - 15 December: €5,200 per week
Winter 2011/2012 - 15 December - 11 March: €2,900 per week, minimum 3 weeks
Early Spring 2012 - 11 March - 15 April: €5,200 /per week
Spring 2012 - 15 April 25, 2009 - 27 May: € 5,800 /per week
Summer 2012 - 27 May - 2 September: € 6,800 /per week
Fall 2012 - 2 September - 30 October: € 5,800 /per week
Note: Until confirmed, rates are subject to change without notice.
Map & Owner's Profile
Luxurious Historic Medieval Hilltop Castle with Pool & Views
Year Purchased: 2008
Why the Owner Chose Domme
Location, location, location! It's minutes to Domme, Castelnaud, Sarlat and every beautiful village in the Perigord Noir. The Dordogne is a magnificent secret with gentle scenery, gentle people and the best food and wine to be found in rural France. It's life as you hope it will be when you head to "get away" from it all. Local neighbors and wonderful authentic villages all add to a feeling of stepping back into what really counts when you head on a vacation - beautiful location, wonderful company, great food and wine, and a pace of life that will help you live a few more years!
The Unique Benefits at this Castle
A magnificently restored 13th century medieval chateau on top of a hill with incredible views all round, a listed historical monument built in the 1200s...4 levels of unparalleled comfort all encased in magnificent stone with a spiral stone staircase ascending 5 floors (it goes into the roof), the best pool area you'll ever find in the area. 10 acres all to yourself, including a private forest. And beautiful beds and with linens and furnishings to die for...Enough said!
Owner's Map of Domme
We are a California couple who purchased this "coup du couer" in 2008 and spent a year renovating and decorating this magnificent historical monument. We were "done" with anymore purchases in this area (we have other properties on this site), but fell in love with this beautiful chateau that we saw in a realtor/immoblier's window on our way to the local bistrot one night! Like most, we always HAVE to look in those windows...!! In addition to the indoors, we also developed the terraces and added a magnificent pool area and covered pool house. We have planned the chateau the same way we would like to find it after coming across the world for a restful vacation. We have spared no expense to develop this magnificent monument into a warm and welcoming home. It is so pure in its medieval form, that we were astonished that such a place still existed in this area, and hadn't been rebuilt or damaged in any way - after so many hundreds of years. We spend time at the chateau ourselves, along with our friends, and we love every stone corner and wooden beam! We are constantly amazed at the views from each window and have enjoyed discovering all the history that the chateau has to offer.
Property Photos
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- Pool with chateau in background - Domme Chateau near Biking and Hiking
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- Chateau Peyruzel from East with surrounding property - Domme Chateau near Biking and Hiking
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- Chateau at night - Domme Chateau near Biking and Hiking
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- Salon towards west windows
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- Stone spiral staircase
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- Bedroom in "Salle d'Armes" with 13th century window
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- Guest bedroom 3rd floor (bathroom ensuite)
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- Large family bedroom 4th floor (Queen and 2 twin beds)
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- Master Guest bedroom 4th floor (with bathroom ensuite)
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- Dining room with east window
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- Chateau kitchen with professional stove
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- Front gates to Chateau Peyruzel
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- View from the Chateau over the valley
Traveler Reviews (7)
A jewel....
Guest: Mary
(Grass Valley, CA)
Date of Stay: 05/23/11
Review Submitted: 08/09/11
We enjoyed an amazing week at Chateau Peyruzel! The accommodations were beyond our expectations, especially the beautiful french linens, antiques and grounds. We really felt like we were in a magazine spread! The location and surrounding villages were charming and had so much to offer. We loved all the delicious duck this region is known for. The proprietor Janice, was so very helpful with arrangements, suggestions and connections. We took her advice on canoeing, exploring and dining and were enthusiastic about them all. Such a peaceful, stunning chateau....a true hidden gem in the less touristy Dordogne region. Get there before the jewel is discovered!
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with teenagers, girls getaway, adventure seekers.
Vacation of a Lifetime
Guest: Theresa
(Elk Grove, CA)
Date of Stay: 06/09/11
Review Submitted: 06/19/11
It's difficult to put into words how exceptionally magnificent Chateau Peyruzel is--we knew it was going to be beautiful based on the photos, but the property and home are absolutely incredible! On arrival, we were overcome by the breathtaking views and the 10+ acre property with pool. Nestled close to Domme and other nearby villages, it was the perfect location for experiencing everything that the Dordogne region offers. However, leaving the chateau for day trips was difficult, as we could have been very content lounging around. The experience of living in a 13th century castle was amazing, but living in one that is filled with luxuries like a gourmet kitchen, comfortable beds, beautiful linens and wifi (!) was truly a vacation of a lifetime. Janice, the owner, made sure that every detail of our stay was perfect. She even helped us plan our day trips and dinners out. We feel incredibly fortunate to have experienced her hospitality and her beautiful chateau.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with teenagers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway.
Amazing adventures in a real castle with a real fairy godmother
Guest: Sue
(Portland, OR)
Date of Stay: 09/12/10
Review Submitted: 11/18/10
Chateau Peyruzel was the perfect site for our two week adventure. We arrived on September 12th of 2010, four couples from Oregon. We were met by Janice, and toured through the property. We couldn't have been more surprised by the beauty of the interiors, the real turret, the pool, the view, and by Janice, who did anything and everything she could to make our weeks perfect. She showed us the linens for dinner in the formal dining room, helped us order mountain bikes, arranged for wine school in St. Emelion, invited Chef Jackee to instruct us in various pate recipes and cook dinner for us, and even joined us for class and dinner so she could translate for us. She sent us to wonderful wine shops in the area and she was the fairy godmother while we lived in our castle. Our days were spent in Michelin restaurants, markets and caves, hiking the hills or sitting by the pool, but by four each day we were all draped on lounge chairs at the pool, sipping something wonderful, reading or painting, in full gratitude for our friendships and great fortune at finding this piece of heaven. Our group is very well traveled, foodies and fun, and with Chateau Peyruzel and all who worked to make our stay perfect, this was a vacation of a lifetime. We hope you are lucky enough to have the opportunity to enjoy the same.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with teenagers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers.
Dream Vacation at Medieval Chateau
Guest: Karen
(Lake Oswego, Oregon USA)
Date of Stay: 09/12/10
Review Submitted: 11/18/10
Every window view gave a picture perfect landscape at the beautiful Medieval Chateau near Domme, France. Our hostess/owner, gave perfect suggestions for shopping, sightseeing, dinners out, an incredible lunch and even arranged for a cooking class and meal with a personal chef. Fabulous! The castle was decorated to perfection and the beautiful pool was a much enjoyed treat at the end of the day. We were spoiled rotten! It was truly a vacation of a lifetime and we are all dreaming of a return visit!
Recommended for:Sightseeing, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway.
Perigord Perfection!
Guest: lynnalan
(MO, USA)
Date of Stay: 09/04/10
Review Submitted: 09/25/10
Our group arrived at Chateau Peyruzel with great hopes for the beauty of the chateau and the surrounding area, based on photos ….. however the reality even exceeded our expectations! The chateau is decorated so tastefully and has been well remodeled down to every last detail. Each bedroom is unique and lovely, and the bathrooms are clean and finished with natural stone and beautiful tubs. The kitchen is perfectly equipped and the living areas lovely yet comfortable. The outside living areas were certainly a highlight for us …. sitting around the pool house watching the sun set across the valley, dinner on the outside dining terrace, reading by the pool surrounded by acres of trees. The location of the chateau could not be better, within easy driving (or cycling) distance of Chateaux Beynac and Castlenaud, Chateau des Millandes, the lovely La Roque Gageac, canoeing on the Dordogne, Marqueyssac Gardens, Domme and its incredible views …. and that only scratches the surface of the activities in the area. Finally, the greatest asset of the chateau is the owner, who answered all of our many questions thoroughly and promptly through the months of planning, provided an indispensable guide to activities and restaurants in the area, arranged an amazing dinner with Chef Jacky at the chateau and treated us as her friends (which we were by the end of our trip). No concierge or host could have been better and we will certainly recommend Chateau Peyruzel without hesitation to anyone traveling to this beautiful region of France.
Recommended for:Sightseeing, families with teenagers, age 55+, romantic getaway, girls getaway, adventure seekers.
Guest: Juzzie
(London, United Kingdom)
Date of Stay: 08/10/09
Review Submitted: 08/10/09
The Dordogne is by far my favourite area in Southwest France. The surrounding areas of the chateau are naturally beautiful with rich farmland and rolling hills. There is lots to do and see in the area. Kayaking down the Dordogne was a highlight, as was eating at the many world class restaurants in the different villages. I spent my summer vacation at the breathtaking chateau in Domme. It is beautifully decorated with fantastic furniture, artwork and stunning curtains. The beds are particularly comfortable all lined with crisp French linen. The large dining room is perfect for entertaining friends and family over dinner. The mornings are best spent eating croissants and drinking coffee overlooking the beautiful medieval garden. The pool house is made of stone and is covered from the warm sun. The afternoons are best spent relaxing on the sun loungers and reading by the large exquisite pool. The chateau is equipped with everything you may possibly need during your stay. In the evening, the pool house provides an excellent viewpoint to watch the sunset whilst enjoying some of the finest wine from the nearby vineyards. The owners provide excellent planning, directions and information needed to fully explore the area. The photographs on the website provide only a snapshot of the beautiful property! I highly recommend this to all readers.
Recommended for:
Guest: Joan
(Mill Valley, CA)
Date of Stay: 07/31/09
Review Submitted: 07/31/09
We had an amazing vacation recently at this magical 13th century chateau, deep in the French countryside. It's a real find because it seamlessly blends medieval charm with modern convenience. The castle is a dream come true with turrets, a winding circular staircase and floors full of well appointed rooms. There's a huge dining room - perfect for entertaining large groups, a smaller breakfast room, a library, a country kitchen with all the latest modern appliances, a gracious living room (salon) and bedrooms galore, all with comfortable beds, sumptuous drapes and shutters that allow you to sleep in until noon. Every room is decorated with impeccable taste and a great respect for the historical tradition of this wonderful chateau. Outside is as good as in and we spent days basking in the sun (and shade) of the pool, covered stone poolhouse, and gardens. We had glorious weather and were still lounging around outside having dinner on the terrace at midnight. The owners are clearly very knowledgeable about the customs, culture and secret hideaways of this region, recommending things that worked out perfectly for our interests and tastes. The managers are close by to tend to any daily needs we had. My family will definitely be returning to this unbelievable property. It exceeded our wildest expectations and I recommend it wholeheartedly.
Recommended for:
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Vacation Rentals by Owner Listing #214294
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