3Château de Bonaguil, Lot-et-Garonne

One of the last grand medieval fortresses built in France, Château de Bonaguil is a masterpiece of military architecture. Its massive walls, drawbridges, arrow slits, and towers create a formidable presence.

Surprisingly, it was never attacked, meaning its structure remains exceptionally intact. Set on a rocky spur above a quiet village, Bonaguil transports visitors into a world of knights and defenses without the commercialization seen at more famous sites.