The Château de Losse is located in the town of Thonac, in the Dordogne, 20 km north of Sarlat. It was originally a stronghold built in the 11th century and dominating the Vézère valley by the de Losse family, originally from Flanders.
In the 16th century, Jean II de Losse (1504-1580) had a new home and a Renaissance-style terrace built in the fortress itself. Servant of various kings of France and for a time tutor of the future Henri IV, he wanted the estate to combine Italian influence and sobriety in relation to its provincial roots.
Moreover, in this troubled time, he modernized the medieval fortifications by adapting them to new military architecture techniques (addition of "guns").
Nowadays, the field has changed little compared to the 16th century. You access the house via a bridge that spans a deep moat then a châtelet connecting to the main courtyard. We admire the facade carved in a blond limestone adorned with Renaissance decorations and inside, are preserved decorations and furniture from the 16th and 17th centuries (tapestries, paintings).
The gardens include rooms of greenery making up a labyrinth, an arbor leading to the rampart walk, and below, squares of aromatic plants, paths planted with various species, the moats having also been fitted out. The whole is labeled Remarkable Garden.
Please note that the estate includes a tea room in the Princess Garden, mini-labyrinths for children, and audiovisual presentations are offered.
Open from May 1 to September 30. Admission: 4.90 to 9.50 euros. Information on +33 5 53 50 80 08.
