Both discreet in the heart of the forest and imposing on their rocky perch, the Towers of Merle are an exceptional site in Xaintrie, located in the commune of Saint-Gêniez-ô-Merle. A guided tour of this former stronghold of the local lords is truly enchanting, as the setting feels like something out of a fairy tale. During your stay at our Corrèze campsite, Le Gibanel in Argentat, near this medieval heritage site, be sure to explore the Towers of Merle.
A bit of history: The Legend of the Towers of Merle
The Towers of Merle are a group of seven castles, each of which served as the residence for seven noble families from Corrèze. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, these towers, which form part of the Dordogne’s rich heritage, offer a journey through 300 years of history. After enduring sieges during the Hundred Years' War and the Wars of Religion, each family eventually abandoned their castle to settle in quieter areas of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Over time, the Towers of Merle fell into obscurity, becoming a remarkable part of France’s historical legacy. Why “Merle”? According to legend, the rocky site where these castles were built was once a hideout for a gang of thieves. Their leader was said to whistle so beautifully that he was nicknamed "Merle," after the blackbird.
Why Visit the Tours de Merle?
Impressive Medieval Architecture
The Tours de Merle are stone castles perched atop a 30-meter-high rocky spur in a meander of the Maronne River, in the Dordogne region. Each castle differs in size and shape, yet all exhibit distinctive medieval architecture. Mullioned windows, arched chimneys, murder holes, latrines—these are just some of the features you’ll discover during your visit.
An Immersion in Nature
This medieval castrum is nestled in the heart of nature, in the Corrèze Valley near Saint-Gêniez-ô-Merle. A family visit to the Tours de Merle offers a refreshing adventure between forest and river in Nouvelle-Aquitaine. Hiking trails lead to exceptional panoramic viewpoints of each tower and the village below, delighting nature lovers. Take the opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna during your day of sightseeing.
Various Activities and Events
Beyond guided tours, the Tours de Merle offer a variety of seasonal workshops for all ages. Adults can enjoy sessions on ancient calligraphy, for example. Your child can participate in an afternoon archaeology workshop. And for group visits, why not try escape games set in the castles, solving puzzles to uncover the history of the Lords of Corrèze?
Practical Information for Visiting the Tours de Merle
Visiting the Tours de Merle is possible from April to November, with different schedules depending on the season.
April 9 - May 8: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, every day
May 9 - July 8: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays
July 9 - August 31 (peak season, summer vacation period): 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, every day
September 1 - September 30: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, closed on Tuesdays
October 1 - October 20: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, visits only on Sundays
October 21 - November 5: 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, every day
Here are the entrance fees for the castrum:
- Adults: €8
- Children aged 6 to 15: €5.50
If you choose a guided tour of the Tours de Merle, an additional €1 will be charged on top of the basic rate. Entry is free for children under 6 years old. Group tours require a minimum of 15 people.