Cadillac, Ducal Castle Loop

Today you have an appointment 34 km south-east of Bordeaux, on the right bank of the Garonne, at the confluence of the latter and the Oeuille stream, in Cadillac. City created in 1280 by Jean de Grailly, seneschal of King Henry III of England, Duke of Aquitaine.

Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 1,5 km
Estimated duration: 1 to 2 hours
Iconic to discover nearby: The Ducal Castle of Cadillac

From the foot of the ramparts (Historic Monuments) that surround the city, remarkably preserved and recently enhanced, reach the heart of the bastide, after crossing the Porte de la Mer and its flood ladder. Join the garden at the foot of the imposing ducal castle (National Monument) which dominates the city. Work by Jean-Louis de Nogaret de La Valette, 1^er Duke of Epernon, it is one of the first examples of French architecture. A visit to the castle is essential: you will discover the vast royal apartments with rich interior decorations and splendid fireplaces, as well as a collection of tapestries magnifying the rooms crossed. Ironically, this palace was once a women's prison! Then go to the Place de la Halle rebuilt in the 1th century, very lively on Saturday mornings and on market days. In the adjacent streets and alleys, you will recognize the oldest Cadillac houses. From the castle square, discover the Saint-Blaise and Saint-Martin church and its beautiful XNUMXth century altarpiece. Next door, the funerary chapel served as a setting for the mausoleum of the XNUMX^er Duke and Duchess of Épernon, destroyed during the Revolution.

The walk continues passing under the Porte de l'Horloge, which allows you to reach the banks of the Garonne and its port. The latter once prospered thanks to the trade in wines and foodstuffs from the countryside of Benauges. Today, you may have the chance to see, moored at the nautical stop, a passenger boat disembarking tourists who have come to discover the charms of the bastide and the treasures of the hinterland. Fine wine lovers, a little detour via the Cadillac Wine Houses is required!

All you have to do is download the brochure and enjoy.
Good walk !