The Château de Lanquais combines a fortified medieval section with a Renaissance palace, offering a concrete starting point for exploring the town’s architectural history. The church, traces of the village’s former life and industries, and several routes add to this cultural picture. You can therefore explore Lanquais through a range of themes: architectural history, village features or time spent in the landscape.
The Château and its history as a listed monument
The different parts of the Château de Lanquais date from the 15th, 16th, 18th and 19th centuries. The Château and the avenue of elms leading to it were classified as a historic monument by decree of 8 July 1942. A further decree of 14 September 2010 also included the west wing, outbuildings, perimeter wall, courtyard and associated grounds; parts already classified were excluded. These architectural elements and the two decree dates provide a clear framework for the Château’s history as a listed monument.
Lanquais church also has a distinct chronology: the central section dates from the 13th century, while the two side chapels were added in the 19th century. Those interested in architecture will find a different development here than at the Château: the church brings together a medieval core and later additions.
Historical traces in the village
The village discovery route passes the former presbytery of La Bazinie, the former prison, or Prévôté, the church, the market hall and the former monastery. These sites bring together different aspects of local history: religious buildings, public institutions and the former presbytery. The Chemin d’Avitus also runs through Lanquais. From there, you can see the large 15th-century tithe barn.
Another historical trace is the Tuilerie des Roques, a former brick kiln that operated until the mid-19th century. It lies along the Boucle des Coteaux. Together with the tithe barn and the buildings on the village discovery route, it broadens the view beyond the best-known landmarks: Lanquais can also be explored through earlier forms of village life and work.
Circular routes on foot or by mountain bike
Two circular routes start in Lanquais and can be distinguished by their length and the features described. The Boucle des Eaux is 6.8 kilometres long and rated easy; it is suitable for hiking and mountain biking. At 11.0 kilometres, the Boucle des Coteaux is longer than the Boucle des Eaux and is also suitable for hiking and mountain biking.
The Boucle des Coteaux passes through meadows and woods, by the Tuilerie des Roques, and, after a viewpoint in the forest, near the Château de Lanquais. It therefore combines landscapes and historical points of interest on the same route. By comparison, the Boucle des Eaux is shorter and rated easy. Check the route details before setting out so your plans suit the route you choose.
Lac de Lanquais and the Couzeau
Lac de Lanquais has shaded paths for walks around the lake. Fishing is also possible there for all experience levels; check local rules before fishing. Path conditions can change, so it is a good idea to take them into account before going for a walk.
The Couzeau flows through Lanquais and feeds Lac de Lanquais. Trout are fished along its banks; conditions for this fishing may vary seasonally. The lake and river thus offer two different ways to enjoy nature: at the lake, the focus is on circular walks and fishing, while the Couzeau also offers trout fishing. Which of these activities shapes your stay depends on whether you would rather go for a walk, hike, mountain bike or fish.
Discover more destinations: Villac, Saint-Cyr-les-Champagnes, Monmarvès, Grand-Brassac, Varaignes, Saint-Martial-D'artenset, Fouleix, Jumilhac-Le-Grand.
For the regional travel overview: Dordogne.
