The massive ramparts and meter-thick walls of this medieval fortress rise through the trees above a magically huddled hamlet. Climb via narrow stairways through thick walls to a superb series of rooms displaying a fine collection of ancient weaponry interspersed with video explanations of crossbow firing, armor forging, siege warfare and more. From the keep's upper terrace are fantastic views encompassing the Dordogne bend and Castelnaud’s arch-rival, the Château de Beynac, 4km to the north.
In summer, save €1 by arriving before 1pm. Check the website for timetables of armor wearing, trebuchet firings and other demonstrations. Evening mystery-game tours led by costumed actors are staged four days a week mid-July to August (prebook online). Organisation is very professional.
