Rebuilt in the 15th century on the former site of a feudal fortress, then remodelled in the 18th century when it was given to Louis XV's favourite, the famous Marquise de Pompadour, in 1745, this superb castle in the municipality of Arnac-Pompadour in west Corrèze has been owned by the National Stud (Haras National) since 1872.
A listed Historic Monument, the castle will delight lovers of medieval architecture with its imposing castellum, large pepperpot towers, wall walk on the machicolations and thick walls. Eleven furnished rooms are open to visitors, including the apartment of the Stud's former director, a 19th-century library and an Aubusson tapestry room. Also worth a look are the Marquise's stables, with a video show about horse-related trades, as well as the Orangery stables occupied by thoroughbreds and presidential horses.
For a lovely way to round off your visit, take a walk in the castle's terrace gardens, which are home to a number of remarkable species such as blue Atlas cedar and magnolia grandiflora.
Opposite the castle is the famous Pompadour racecourse with its 2,000 metre-long sand track, including natural fences and cross trails that have made it famous.
