Limeuil is a small, pretty village in the Dordogne that sits right on the confluence of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers between the towns of Le Bugue and Le Buisson de Cadouin.
As their name suggests, the Panoramic Gardens of Limeuil take full advantage of the village location and are situated high on a rocky outcrop, ideally placed overlooking the fantastic surrounding views. This strategic position was home to a medieval chateau that was renovated in the 19th century. Having been left abandoned for years, in 2004 a project was undertaken to transform the chateau and its grounds into a beautiful visitor attraction. The chateau now forms the entrance and the gardens fan out around it.
Perhaps the name also alludes to the fact there are many different areas to discover. There is a great range of differently themed gardens such as the medieval-style garden that you are met with as you enter. This one is filled with aromatic plants and herbs. A small arboretum stretches beyond this and from here you are led to an incredible viewpoint looking over the river confluence, the countryside and the russet roofs of the village below you. You will discover a water garden that features a pond surrounded by mediterranean-style planting with sage and lavenders. There is a mini botanic garden where plants are organised in rows and carefully labelled, and an insect garden with an educational beehive that has a glass viewing panel.
The themed gardens add an educational dimension to an enjoyable day out. Great for all age groups, the gardens have a range of interpretive trails such as the Tree Trail and the Medieval Plant Trail, to help you discover the history and gardening tips or to simply better understand the nature. During the summer a number of workshops take place including fabric dying using natural plant dyes, willow weaving and felting. Youngsters can learn about the traditional skills that were once used. And after a day of wandering a refreshment garden offers drinks and ice creams for a pick-me-up, and a shop sells mementos and gifts.
The gardens are open April, May, June, September and October, every day except Saturday from 10am-12.30pm and 2pm-6pm. In July and August the gardens are open everyday from 10am-8pm and the craft workshops are from 2pm-6pm. But do check the website before making a visit, to double check times and prices.
The beautifully restored, ancient hamlet of Constant is just over half an hour away from Limeuil and provides an ideal place to stay in the Dordogne. Find out how you can stay here and discover local delights for yourself by following the link below.
