Chateau Milandes

Chateau Milandes can be found nestling on the banks of the river Dordogne and is one of the most accessible, and interesting, chateaux of the region.

Until 1789 it was used more as a residence than a fortified castle (see Castelnaud La Chapelle) by the Caumont family however it was abandoned and fell into disrepair in the years that followed the revolution. Major renovation began around 1900 which restored many of the original features and added some impressive new ones too such as romantic balconies, medieval-style gargoyles and a new tower. A formal garden was commissioned as well as a winery and farm.   

Possibly the most famous resident of Chateau Milandes was Josephine Baker, the American-born singer/dancer/performer. She began living in the chateau in 1940 and actively served with the French resistance during World War 2, following which she began to raise her family of 12 adopted children who she lovingly referred to as the 'rainbow tribe'.     

"Possibly the most famous resident of Chateau Milandes was Josephine Baker, the American-born singer/dancer/performer."