Located south-east of Nontron and nearby Villars is Chateau de Puyguilhem. Similar to Chateau de Jumilhac this castle could be the castle of postcards. While it is not nearly so impressive on its own it gets a lot of help from the surrounding scenery.

Many castles were defensive strongholds for their positions on the peaks of difficult rock faces. Chateau de Puyguilhem's defensive strength is what now makes it so beautiful. It backs up to the forest of northern Dordogne, and faces an enormous open meadow. This landscaping forced any would be attacker to expose themselves long before they ever reached the chateau.

A much newer chateau than many in the area it's 16th century renaissance style construction shares more with the castles of Loire Valley tan it does with its neighbouring chateaux throughout Dordogne.

The castle also offers beauty inside as well. Hosting grand fireplaces, an impressive spiral staircase, as well as an impressive furniture and tapestries collection.

Open: Apr-Oct:daily; Nov-Mar:Tue-Sun