France - Hauteford to Chauvigny

Hauteford Chateau is located on the site of a former roman camp. During the 9th century the fortress belonged to the powerful Viscounts of Limoges and then to the Lords of Born in the 12th century. The medieval fortress with a keep and several towers from the 15th century is mostly now gone. The Chateau was transformed into a stately home during the 1600s with the defences progressively being replaced by classical architecture. The first thing to catch your eye as you enter though are the gardens.