Would you like to discover one of the emblematic skills of the Périgord Noir region? Just a few minutes from Sarlat, Domaine de Vielcroze invites you to plunge into the fascinating world of walnuts, the treasure of the Périgord region. With its museum, traditional mill and century-old orchards, the visit promises a true journey to the heart of local traditions.
And good news for customers of the Château de Maravaladmission to the Domaine de Vielcroze museum is free during your stay!
Take advantage of this unique opportunity to enrich your discovery of the Dordogne and enjoy an authentic, gourmet and cultural experience.
Delving into the history of Domaine de Vielcroze
Le Domaine de Vielcroze is much more than just a production site: it's a living conservatory of the Périgord Noir's agricultural heritage. Located in Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, not far from Sarlat, this family-run estate has been perpetuating the love of walnut trees and the passion for local produce for several generations.
The cultivation of walnuts, the emblem of the Dordogne, is practised here with respect for ancestral traditions. The estate has succeeded in preserving and promoting these unique skills, while opening its doors to the public to discover the history and secrets of this emblematic fruit.
Today, with its museum, mill and vast orchards, Domaine de Vielcroze offers a complete immersion in this fascinating world, where authenticity and transmission are at the heart of every visit.
What can you discover at Domaine de Vielcroze?
A visit to Domaine de Vielcroze is a true immersion in the world of the Périgord walnut. Between cultural discovery and the pleasure of the senses, the estate offers several areas to explore, each revealing a facet of local know-how.
The walnut museum
The Walnut Museum plunges you into the fascinating history of walnut growing in the Dordogne. Through an educational and entertaining exhibition, you'll learn how walnuts have been grown, harvested and processed from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Antique objects, farming tools, period photographs: each element traces the strong link between walnuts and Périgord rural life. It's a fascinating step towards understanding the importance of this emblematic fruit in the local economy.
The traditional mill and oil production
The Domaine de Vielcroze mill is a jewel of our artisan heritage. During your visit, you'll witness the traditional production of walnut oil, pressed on site using ancestral methods.
From the crushing of the kernels to the extraction of the oil, each stage is explained to you. And to complete the experience, a tasting session allows you to savor a pure oil with a delicate, authentic taste.
Walnut orchards
As you stroll through the Domaine de Vielcroze orchards, you'll discover different varieties of walnut trees grown with care. Depending on the season, you can watch walnuts blossom, ripen or be harvested.
The walk is also an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the site, surrounded by the verdant hills typical of the Périgord Noir region.
Special offer: free admission to Domaine de Vielcroze for Château de Maraval customers
To make your stay even more exceptional, Domaine de Vielcroze and Château de Maraval have teamed up to offer you an exclusive package: free admission to the Domaine de Vielcroze museum for all Château de Maraval guests!
How can I benefit from this offer?
It's very simple:
- When you arrive at Domaine de Vielcroze, present your confirmation of your stay or your Château de Maraval room key.
- Access to the Walnut Museum is free of charge.
This offer lets you discover the history and secrets of the Périgord walnut at no extra cost, while enjoying your stay in one of the region's most beautiful establishments.
Why take advantage of this tour?
- An authentic experience in the heart of the Périgord Noir's gastronomic heritage.
- Taste one of the region's finest artisanal walnut oils.
- Enrich your stay at Château de Maraval with a unique local cultural experience.
Don't miss this great opportunity to combine relaxation, comfort and immersion in the traditions of the Périgord!
Prepare your visit to Domaine de Vielcroze
To make the most of your experience at Domaine de Vielcroze, here's some practical information to help you organize your visit.
Access and location
Domaine de Vielcroze is located in Castelnaud-la-Chapelle, just a few minutes from Domme, La Roque-Gageac and Sarlat-la-Canéda.
From Château de Maraval, it's about a 10-minute drive to the estate, along pretty roads through the Périgord countryside.
Exact address:
Domaine de Vielcroze
Lieu-dit Vielcroze
24250 Castelnaud-la-Chapelle
Free parking is available directly on site.
Opening times
- April to October: open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- November to March: visits by appointment only.
Tip: remember to check opening times before your visit, especially in low season.
Tastings and store
After your visit to the museum and the mill, don't leave without discovering the estate store!
You'll find :
- Artisanal walnut oil pressed on site.
- High-quality walnut kernels.
- Jams, pâtés, cookies and local nut specialities.
- Gift ideas and gourmet souvenirs to take home.
Tip: tastings are free, so you can fully appreciate the difference from traditional walnut oil!
Why visit the Domaine de Vielcroze during your stay in the Dordogne?
Domaine de Vielcroze is much more than just a place to visit: it's a true immersion in the soul of the Périgord Noir. Discover the walnut museum, watch artisanal oil production and stroll under century-old walnut trees for an authentic experience that's as close to local traditions as you can get.
Thanks to our exclusive partnership with Château de Maraval, your stay becomes even more rewarding: admission to the museum is free, allowing you to freely enjoy this gourmet and cultural visit.
Whether you're a lover of the terroir, curious about history, or simply in search of local discoveries, a stop at Domaine de Vielcroze will add a unique and tasty touch to your visit to the Dordogne.
Don't miss this opportunity to experience Vielcroze, a blend of heritage, flavors and authenticity, just a stone's throw from your accommodation at Château de Maraval!
