The Dordogne region is a sunny, tranquil & green part of the world, neither too hot nor too inclement. Much of the countryside remains unspoilt & offers many good painting opportunities.

A painter's paradise, which offers beautiful subject matter everywhere you look. "I found what I wanted to paint in the first five minutes!" says one student. There is so much to paint and to appreciate - the many different views of the château, its atmospheric interiors, landscapes 'en plein air' on the lawns , besides the lake, in the woods ... even the view from your apartment window.

Or maybe a trip out to the nearby river, the popular lined canal , a colourful local marketday or the sunflower fields.

The Château de Lanquais is a truly beautiful place. It rises above the surrounding ancient trees like an fairy-tale castle. Not far from Bergerac & the river, it is situated amongst gently rolling, heavily wooded vallies.

The oldest part of the chateau dates The Hundred Years War (like Bergerac, it was allied to the English).

The seven-sided fortified Sarladais Tower, with its spiral staircase of 59 stone steps, was added on in the 15th century by the Knights Templar.

The huge16th Century wing is attributed to Philibert De L'Orme & Lescot, the architects ofthe Louvre. To see the sun light up its elevations is to experience some of the hope and beauty of the Renaissance.

The family were related to Catherine de Medici, and the atmospheric interiors are furnished with mediaeval & renaissance antiques.

Lanquais is a place with centuries of love for the arts. The first work of art made on the site was a Neolithic engraved stone circa 10 000 BC.

The chateau does have staircases, some of which are made of stone. You might also get to see the attics, dungeons & underground labyrinth, which are not normally open to the public. A week at Lanquais is a rare opportunity to stay in a family owned french chateau, which is not totally restored nor transformed into a pristine museum. Its rich, fascinating history creates an atmospheric & authentic setting for a unique & wonderful painting holiday.

"Thank you for a great week, for your 100% dedication and expert tuition, and the superb venue. I loved it. The company proved excellent so all in all a memorable experience" A.Batten, Wales, Lanquais Alumini..

Non painting partners can enjoy a good relax on the lawns , a snooze after a good meal, go fishing, walking or swimming, play boules, amble down the shops in the village or use the chateau as a base to discover the the Dordogne region.