Chateau de Lanquais

 On a recent visit to the Dordogne in South West France, we chanced upon this fairytale chateau, dating from the 14th century. We just followed the signs to the chateau hoping to catch a glimpse, and we were surprised to find it open on a Sunday afternoon.

I'ts an interesting castle in that it is a mix of architectural styles given that it was once a fortified stronghold, which was later in the 16th and 17th centuries expanded into a palace in the renaissance style. You can see clearly from the picture above, the medieval round tower adjoining the later palatial accommodation.
Its checkered past and battle scars can clearly be seen from the front elevation where you can witness the holes in the yellow stone from cannon fire.

For 8 Euro, you can go inside the chateau and view a selection of furnished rooms, with huge fireplaces and interesting collections. Pick up an English guide as you leave Reception to help you on your tour.You will also see the medieval kitchen and displays, and descend to the castle dungeons. Watch out for a waxwork prisoner lurking in one of the cells, I was not ready for him!
Things are not done in the same way in France, and this is no National Trust managed property, but if you are in the area, it's an interesting place to visit off the normal Dordogne tourist trail.

We stayed at nearby Chateau les Merles.