Castle des Milandes

Château des Milandes is a stunning Gothic-style castle in the Dordogne region of southwest France. It's an imposing structure made of the area's signature honeycomb stone. The castle dates back to the 1400s, but it is best known for its 1940s owner, celebrated dancer, and singer Josephine Baker.

The Chateau des Milandes is located in the Dordogne department of Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, about an hour's drive from Bergerac Dordogne Perigord Airport. This XV-century castle was the home of the Lords of Caumont but has since been owned by various families, including a wealthy industrialist who made a fortune in women's lingerie.

The first person to welcome guests into her castle was Josephine Baker, who wished for it to be a warm location that the general public could enjoy. When you visit the castle, you can get a glimpse into the life of Josephine and her 12 adopted children from all over the world. Her life, including her participation in the resistance movement during World War II, is beautifully commemorated at the château.

The castle is set on lovely grounds, and the gardens are designated as a historic monument. Jules Vacherot, the City of Paris's head gardener, redesigned it into its current grand format in the early 1900s. There are many beautiful birds of prey on the grounds, and they perform a daily demonstration that is quite breathtaking during the summer months.

Location: Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, Dordogne