Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac - Individual visitors - Marqueyssac gardens

   The Nativity Scenes of Périgord Noir  

Exceptional discoveries!

Designed as a magical itinerary linking seven iconic sites around the fairy-tale theme of Christmas Nativity Scenes, the Nativity Scenes of Périgord Noir are making their debut. Each site presents a unique creation, but they all share the same goal: to enchant young and old alike and make their eyes sparkle.

From 1st December 2025 to 4th January 2026, seven of the Périgord Noir’s most important sites will celebrate the festive season with exceptional tours and enchanting entertainment. This will be an opportunity to discover ‘Les Crèches du Périgord Noir’, an event that promises to enhance the magic of Christmas in this region of tradition and heritage.

An Italian breeze blows through Marqueyssac!

Like the Tuscan-style gardens, the tradition of the Provençal nativity scene comes into its own at Marqueyssac. Come and discover scenes from life in days gone by within the castle grounds, highlighting the most common trades in a 19th-century village. The Garden Chapel, open to visitors for the first time, will celebrate the Nativity with Santons de Provence figurines. The 22-hectare park, with its green gardens in all seasons, six kilometres of paths lined with hand-pruned century-old box trees and belvederes, reveals a picturesque setting of rockeries and dry stone huts and sumptuous panoramic views over the Dordogne valley.

Discovering the chapel!

In the early 19th century, between 1830 and 1840, Julien Bessière, a career soldier, had the Grande Allée opened for his horse rides and, in the heart of the gardens, had the chapel built, which would later be remodelled… This year, during the festive season, this secret place is opening its doors to the public. Inside this chapel, a little piece of Provence awaits you!

This unique experience, where tradition and beauty come together to offer a moment of contemplation and wonder for the whole family. A rare opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas in an enchanting setting, not to be missed.

Don’t forget your twin ticket!

Yes, it is possible to combine your visit to the gardens with a visit to Castelnaud Castle…
Our chatelains have also joined the nativity scene trail… At the end of the year, you will find a Playmobil exhibition on the theme of “Castle Dreams”! A nativity scene will also be unveiled – as well as the opportunity to dress up in period costumes – for adults and children.
Tickets available here.

Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac - Individual visitors - Marqueyssac gardens

   Gourmet February 

Exceptional workshops!

From 8 February to 9 March, discover the gastronomic and heritage treasures of Sites en Périgord with the ‘Février Gourmand’ event, supported by the Pays de Fénelon, Lascaux-Dordogne and Sarlat-Périgord Tourist Offices.

Castles, gardens, chasms and prehistoric sites are transformed into veritable temples of gourmet delights. Enjoy culinary workshops, tastings, interactive tours and activities for young and old alike. From medieval cuisine to sweet treats, each site offers a unique experience, combining local flavours and historical discoveries.

An invitation to explore heritage in a different way, for a winter that is as rich as it is tasty!

On the programme at the Jardins de Marqueyssac: Gourmet workshops

   A Gourmet Valentine’s 

Special Valentine’s Day Menu

Meals served on Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th February at lunchtime in the tea room – no booking required

Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac - Individual visitors - Marqueyssac gardens

Fabuleux Foie Gras !

Maison PELEGRIS (for five generations, Maison Pelegris has been committed to producing the highest quality foie gras): event held at the château every Thursday from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.

– Demonstration of foie gras deveining.
– Foie gras cooking techniques.
– Tasting.

Gourmet workshops by reservation only. Please note that places are limited and reservations must be made by email at jardins@marqueyssac.com OR by telephone on +33 (0)5 53 31 36 36.

Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac - Individual visitors - Marqueyssac gardens

Master-Glace !

Maison Manouvrier (ice cream inventor since 1992, with over 200 flavours created to date): event at the château every Tuesday from 3pm to 5pm

– Demonstration workshop on how to make Marqueyssac acacia flower sorbet
– Demonstration workshop on how to make the signature ©Marqueyssac sorbet
– Tasting of frozen flowers

Gourmet workshops by reservation only. Please note that places are limited and reservations must be made by email at jardins@marqueyssac.com OR by telephone on +33 (0)5 53 31 36 36.

Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac - Individual visitors - Marqueyssac gardens

   ‘Nature’s Delicacies’ craft workshop   

A revamped craft workshop!

From 8 February to 9 March, craft workshops will be held every day from 11:00 to 13:00 and from 14:30 to 17:30.

• Seed bomb: using clay, flower seeds and potting soil, children will make seed bombs to release into the wild in spring. These flowers will then provide a source of food for pollinating insects.
• Seed mosaic: using self-hardening clay and seeds (white beans, red beans, corn, sunflower seeds, etc.), children will create their own mosaic-inspired artwork.
• Bird feeder: children will spread vegetable fat on a pine cone before covering it with seeds. All that’s left to do is hang it in their garden or window for the birds to enjoy.

Activity for children aged 3 and up, available without reservation and at no extra cost.

Jardins Suspendus de Marqueyssac - Individual visitors - Marqueyssac gardens

Discover our partner sites for Christmas nativity scenes

sites en périgord Association

This year, seven iconic sites reveal their Christmas Nativity scenes…

Le Château de Castelnaud
Le Gouffre de Proumeyssac
La Maison forte de Reignac
La Roque Saint Christophe
Les Grottes du Roc de Cazelle
Le Château et les Jardins des Milandes