Les Jardins du Manoir d'Eyrignac are about a 20 minute drive north east of Sarlat-la-Caneda. They are dramatic as well as attractive. If you are looking for a flower garden you will be disappointed.

There are flowers but the main attraction of Les Jardins du Manoir d'Eyrignac are the magnificent formal landscaping using hornbeam hedging and topiary. They are well sign posted from the nearest big town Salignac-Eyvignes which is also worth a visit.

The gardens are over 500 years old. Several generations of gardeners have worked hard to the maintain the historical authenticity and serenity of this green haven of peace. In the 18th Century the Marquis Louis Antoine Gabriel de Costes de la Calprenede created the gardens as you see them now. He was King Louis VXI's Chief controller of accounts and finances. He had a good salary but also diverted some of the funds he managed and as was standard in those days, accepted bribes.

Because the gardens are of such a high standard the French Ministry of Culture awarded them the satus of 'Jardin Remarquable'. The four hectare garden has been remodelled in the spirit of the 18th century French formal garden which was very different to the more natural English Landscape garden style that was catching on in the grand houses of Georgian Great Britain. Les Jardins du Manoir d'Eyrignac did produce a cash crop. The small tower buildings that can be found between the hedging were designed to breed silk worms. Mulberry bushes were planted to provide food for the silk worms.

The Gardens of Eyrignac Manor are best known for their dramatic sculptured hedges. The Gardeners try to employ the old methods and gardening skills. The Yew trees, Hornbeams, Boxwood and Cypress trees are pruned with Hand shears. Gardener's lines and plumb lines are employed to help sculpture the vegetation into the desired shapes.

The White Garden is mainly planted with white roses and complimented with fountains. The red garden has an oriental theme. It is one of the most beautiful gardens in Perigord. The yellow ochre stone Manor House was built in the 17th Century and has been kept in it's original condition.

Audio guides are available in English. It is open throughout the year. In the winter it is closed for lunch 12.30pm - 2.30pm. It is open at 10.30 and closes at dusk. In the summer from April to September it is open until 7pm from 10am with no breaks for lunch. Well behaved dogs on a lead are welcome. There is a restaurant, shop and picnic area.

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