The village Carlux, situated in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, is not the biggest or most popular tourist attraction in the area.
More likely, Carlux is famous for the attractions that it is near like the town of Sarlat-le-Canéda or the nearby “most beautiful villages of France” like Domme, La Roque Gageac, Beynac and Castelnaud which are all within 20 miles.
The village is strategically positioned near the Dordogne River, surrounded by lush forests and stunning countryside.
Its location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the renowned Dordogne Valley, a region celebrated for its medieval villages, prehistoric caves, and scenic landscapes.
So let’s have a look at the top things to see and do in Carlux, shall we? Allons-y!
Things to do in Carlux
1. Château de Carlux
The Château de Carlux dates back to the 10th century and was a stronghold of the viscounts of Turenne.
During the Hundred Years’ war, the castle of Carlux was taken by the English troops in November 1405. The castle did not fare well and was burned in 1406.
It was overrun several times by French troops and English, and changed hands several times, just like the nearby castles of Château de Beynac and Château de Castelnaud. By the end of the war, the château de Carlux stood partly in ruins.
However, it still managed to have a a keep and an entrance tower, and so served as a den for Protestants during the Wars of religion. In 1593 after three weeks of siege, it was taken back by the King of France, Henri Navarre, who himself was protestant but had converted to Catholicism.
The castle was given to the Noailles who were viscounts of Carlux from 1723 to the Revolution. In 1992 the castle was given to the town and partial restoration works were undertaken to allow visitors to visit.
2. Village center
Carlux is a rather sleepy little village, and there are not a lot of shops and restaurants in the area.
Nonetheless, if you are looking for that small French village charm without an overabundance of tourists, don’t hesitate to have a wander around Carlux.
3. Local specialties
Carlux and the surrounding Perigord Noir region has a lot of local specialties, but the most popular items are truffles, foie gras and chestnuts.
Over 8-9 tonnes of black truffle produced there every year. With an emphasis on freshness, terroir, and authenticity, they called black diamonds.
And of course, one of the most popular delicacies in the area is the chestnut. All around the countryside you will find chestnut trees growing in the area.
How to get to Carlux?
Carlux is about 330 miles (535 km) from Paris and is about 125 miles (200 km) from Toulouse and Bordeaux. The only way to get to Carlux is by car or bus.
If you are driving down from Paris, the closest big city along the way is Limoges, which is about 95 miles (160km) away.
How easy is it getting around?
Carlux is relatively hilly so it is not as easy to get around in a wheelchair or stroller. It is not pedestrianized however, so you can get around by car.
How many days should you spend?
About half a day is enough in Carlux village center and visiting the castle, but you may want to stay longer to explore the surrounding countryside.
When is the best time to visit?
Carlux is a pretty quiet town that doesn’t get as busy as its more popular touristic neighbors. As such, you can visit Carlux all year long, and even make it your base as you explore the nearby towns of Sarlat-la-Canéda, Rocamadour, Lascaux caves, Gouffre du Padirac, etc.
Carlux is famous for its fête des crêpes (crêpe festival) which is held every August. During the festival, a medieval show is held along with historic musical performances, along with other animations.
Where should you stay?
Carlux is quite small so I recommend you stay in the nearby town of Sarlat-la-Canéda which offers many more shops and restaurants:
- €€€ – Hôtel Montaigne
- €€€€ – Plaza Madeleine & Spa
- €€€€ – La Villa des Consuls
If you enjoyed that article, you may like to read more about traveling around Nouvelle Aquitaine. A bientôt!
