Beynac feels like home to us. Like a story book village lost in time that we had only read or dreamt about, it deserves its designation as Most Beautiful Village of France.
The village of Beynac consists of a cluster of golden-stone houses beneath a dramatic 500-foot cliff. Perched at the top stands the 12th century Chateau Beynac, rising from the sheer cliff face along the most historic and scenic section of the Dordogne River. With its formidable Chateau, rows of charming houses, and the gentle river below, the setting is simply captivating. La Petite Maison makes for an ideal home base for visiting all the picturesque villages in the Perigord Noir, including Domme, La Roque-Gageac, Castelnaud, Monpazier, and Sarlat just to name a few.
Beynac Castle is renowned for being one of the best-preserved medieval castles in France. It was painstakingly restored last century using only the tools of the medieval craftsman. From the castle terrace, the chateaux of Marqueyssac, Fayrac, and Castelnaud are all within view across the verdant tapestry of this beautiful valley.
Nowhere have we found a more tranquil, beautiful, and romantic setting than here in the Dordogne. Whether you are exploring fairy tale castles, strolling a local market, wandering through cobblestone streets, studying prehistoric cave art, or simply taking in the unspoiled countryside, you will come to understand why this is one of the most endearing regions in all of Europe. Designated by the French government as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Beynac never fails to impress.