The château des Milandes

Les Milandes is one of the castles that most deeply affected the local people over the 20th century. Such popularity is understandable, of course. It provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the Dordogne Valley, is built in the Renaissance style and has a history attached to it, the history of the Caumont family, each of whose members played an illustrious part in the history of France and Périgord.

However, the castle gained almost unbelievable fame when, in 1947, Joséphine Baker became its owner. The great music-hall star who took Périgord as her home awakened the sleeping architectural beauty.

Les Milandes, built in the late 15th century, became resolutely modern and Renaissance fireplaces now stand close to Art Déco bathrooms. You can find out all about the world of Joséphine Baker through a large, permanent exhibition.

As to the newly restored gardens, they play host to a show involving birds of prey.

Madame Claude de Labarre, who bought the property in September 2001, has left the castle in the hands her daughter, Angélique, the author of this book.