Perched castles in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes: 13 jewels to visit
The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region is bursting with architectural treasures that proudly dominate its valleys and mountains. Between volcanic peaks and rocky spurs, 13 perched castles invite you to take an exceptional journey back in time. Medieval fortresses, Renaissance palaces and stately homes are revealed in the heart of breathtaking landscapes. Discover these heritage gems that tell the fascinating story of this exceptional region.
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1. Murol castle, perched on a volcanic peak
Towering majestically over the commune of Murol in the Puy-de-Dôme department, this medieval castle stands at an altitude of 1050 metres on a spectacular basalt peak. Built in the 12th century, it bears witness to the power of the Auvergne lords and their ability to build impregnable fortresses. Listed as a Historic Monument since 1889, Château de Murol (Rue du Château, 63790 Murol, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of over 8,000 reviews) has stood the test of time, withstanding the Hundred Years’ Wars and epidemics.
The immersive tour takes you back to the 15th century, with a dramatised welcome by Lord William II himself. Take a tour of the curtain walls, explore the defensive towers and admire the exceptional panoramic view from the parapet walk. Regular medieval events, including combat demonstrations and period crafts, are a delight for young and old alike. The castle is open all year round (except 14 July), with opening times varying according to the season.
2. Val Castle and its Gothic chapel
With its six imposing towers reflected in the waters of Lake Bort-les-Orgues, the Château de Val (Les Fontilles, 15270 Lanobre, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 295 reviews) is a magical sight. Built in the 15th century by Guillaume IV d’Estaing, this fortified castle miraculously escaped drowning when the nearby dam was built in the 1950s. Its waterside location gives it a romantic atmosphere that is unique in the Cantal.
In the courtyard of honour stands a charming Gothic chapel dedicated to Saint-Blaise, built in the 15th century. Inside the château, the three large rooms on the first floor feature authentic furniture typical of the 19th century. The second floor regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions. Château de Val also offers a wide range of cultural events, including classical music concerts, open-air theatre and treasure hunts for children during the summer months.
3. The Château de Grignan, jewel of the Drôme
In the heart of the Drôme provençale, the Château de Grignan (23 Rue Montant au Château, 26230 Grignan, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 1241 reviews) dominates the hilltop village from the top of its Renaissance towers. Transformed into a pleasure residence by the Adhemar family, it was home to the famous Marquise de Sévigné, who stayed here several times to visit her daughter. This emblematic monument, with over 1,000 years of history, now belongs to the Drôme département.
The tour takes in the château’s exceptional Renaissance and classical architecture, with its sumptuous flats and portrait gallery. The view from the terrace is breathtaking: Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail and the lavender fields unfold before your eyes. The château offers a rich cultural programme throughout the year, with theatrical performances, concerts and the famous evening parties that recreate the elegant atmosphere of the Grand Siècle.
4. Billy’s fortress, for a touch of magic
Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, the Billy fortress (Rue du Château, 03260 Billy, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 509 reviews) stands proudly on a limestone outcrop overlooking the Allier valley. This impressive fortress bears witness to the historical legacy of the Bourbons and features architecture typical of closed-courtyard castles. It is made up of three successive enclosures, the remains of which can still be seen from the medieval dwellings built against the walls.
The village of Billy, listed as a Petite Cité de Caractère, has retained all its medieval charm, with its cobbled streets and stone houses. During your visit, discover the masterfully restored defensive towers and the remains of the castle chapel. The originality of this site lies in its regular themed events inspired by the world of Harry Potter, which enchant visitors of all ages and add a magical dimension to this fortress steeped in history.
5. Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard, the diamond in the rough of Haute-Savoie
Nestling in a forest setting with a breathtaking view over Lake Annecy, the Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard (Allée du Château, 74290 Menthon-Saint-Bernard, rated 4.1/5 on Google out of 536 reviews) is an architectural gem in Savoie. Restored in a neo-Gothic style in the 19th century, this thousand-year-old castle impresses with its three high towers linked by a parapet walk. Inhabited since the 10th century by the same family, the Saint Bernard de Menthon, it embodies a thousand years of Savoyard history.
The interior boasts sumptuous furnishings, a remarkable half-timbered gallery, an impressive library and magnificent Aubusson tapestries. The meticulously tended formal gardens have earned the château the nickname of the “Diamond in the rough of Haute-Savoie”. Guided tours take in the private flats, the weapons room and the chapel. Legend has it that this castle inspired Walt Disney to create the castle in Sleeping Beauty.
Download the audio tour to discover Annecy on foot and on your own
Just a few kilometres from the château, a visit to Annecy will allow you to discover the Venice of the Alps, with its romantic canals, crystal-clear lake and medieval old town. The Navaway itinerary guides you through the cobbled streets, along the flower-filled quays and towards the most beautiful viewpoints over the lake. Let the audioguides guide you on an enriching and totally autonomous tour.
6. Pesteils castle and its impressive keep
Château de Pesteils (15400 Polminhac, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 344 reviews) majestically dominates the village of Polminhac and the Cère valley from its rocky spur. Its 40-metre-high keep, visible from miles around, impresses by its stature and remarkable preservation. This ancient medieval fortress immerses visitors in the authentic atmosphere of the Cantalien Middle Ages.
The vaulted room on the second floor houses wall paintings dating back to the 15th century, providing precious evidence of medieval Auvergne art. The kitchens, designed in 1900 by the Marquis de Miramon, feature typical Auvergne architecture with their cantou (large fireplace), salt chests and landiers. The tour is brought to life by 20 wax figures created by the Musée Grévin, realistically retracing the history of a great Cantalien family through the centuries.
7. The Domaine de Vizille and the famous Salle du Jeu de Paume
The Domaine de Vizille (Place du Château, 38220 Vizille, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 5628 reviews) is a must-see for history and heritage lovers in Isère. The former home of the Dukes of Lesdiguières and the Presidents of the Third and Fourth Republics, this estate occupies a major place in French history. It was here that the Assembly of the three orders of the Dauphiné was held in July 1788, in the famous Salle du Jeu de Paume, the precursor of the French Revolution.
The estate extends over 100 hectares of parkland and gardens that have been awarded the ‘Remarkable Garden’ label, offering bucolic walks along the water’s edge. Flora and fauna abound, with geese, swans and deer roaming freely. Today, the château houses the Museum of the French Revolution, as well as a documentation centre and library dedicated to this major event, allowing visitors to immerse themselves fully in this pivotal period in our history.
8. The Château de Montmelas and its unusual architecture
Built between the 10th and 12th centuries, the fortified castle of Montmelas (285 Route du Château, 69640 Montmelas-Saint-Sorlin, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 153 reviews) is closely linked to the history of the Beaujolais region. Once owned by the Sires de Beaujeu, it served as a garrison until 1566. Renovated in neo-Gothic style in the 19th century by architect Louis Dupasquier, a contemporary of Viollet-le-Duc, the château is now a family property run by the descendants of Count and Countess Henri d’Harcourt.
The panorama from the château is exceptional: on a clear day, you can see all the way from the Rhône valley to the foothills of Mont Blanc. The charming formal garden invites you to stroll and contemplate. Inside, the 12 richly decorated bedrooms bear witness to the refinement of the premises. The exterior architecture is distinguished by its unique polygonal shape and its perfectly preserved machicolated keep, rare features in the region.
9. Villeneuve-Lembron castle and its porticoed gallery
Built at the end of the Middle Ages, the Château de Villeneuve-Lembron (Rue du Château, 63340 Villeneuve-Lembron, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 168 reviews) is a remarkable example of the transition between medieval and Renaissance architecture. A family property, Gaspard de Montmorin helped to embellish it with magnificent painted decorations that can still be seen in the ceremonial hall and the large stables, providing precious evidence of the decorative art of the period.
In 1643, Isaac Dufour, Treasurer of France, undertook major alterations, including the conversion of the inner courtyard and the creation of the elegant porticoed gallery that characterises the château today. Managed by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux, the château offers themed guided tours to discover the architectural evolution of the building and the daily lives of its occupants over the centuries.
10. Château de Crussol, at the summit of the Ardèche
Perched 400 metres above the Rhône valley, Château de Crussol (Quartier Beauséjour, 07130 Saint-Péray, rated 4.5/5 on Google out of 280 reviews) offers spectacular views over Valence and the surrounding area. Nestling in a Natura 2000 site, its majestic ruins stretch over three hectares with ramparts in an excellent state of conservation. Built as early as the 10th century, the castle has undergone many transformations over the centuries.
In the 12th century, Gérold Bastet de Crussol built a stone and wood castle that did not withstand the ravages of the Wars of Religion, violent storms and natural collapses. Despite these vicissitudes, the fortress retains an imposing presence, protected by a 250-metre rocky ascent that makes access spectacular. Regular guided tours take visitors deep into the tumultuous history of this majestic Ardèche fortress.
11. Château de la Rochelambert, inspiration for art
Château de la Rochelambert (43800 Saint-Paulien, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 118 reviews) in the Haute-Loire is an ancient medieval castle that still proudly bears the marks of its glorious past. Built in the 11th century, it boasts imposing towers and a drawbridge that is still functional. Restored during the Renaissance, it first belonged to the knight Pierre de la Rochelambert. Perched on a cliff of volcanic rock with its characteristic pink hues, it blends harmoniously into the Auvergne landscape.
The château’s remarkable architecture did not escape the attention of film-maker Jean Cocteau, who used its façade and majestic staircase as the backdrop for his 1946 film “Beauty and the Beast”. In 1859, the writer George Sand stayed here on her second trip to the Auvergne. Fascinated by this romantic and mysterious residence, she chose the château as the setting for her novel “Jean de la Roche”, thus contributing to the literary fame of this exceptional site.
12. The Château du Sailhant and its lauze roofs
Nestling atop a rocky spur over 30 metres high, Château du Sailhant (15590 Sailhant, rated 4.7/5 on Google for 84 reviews) is surrounded by a natural waterfall and a volcanic lake dating back to prehistoric times. Access to the château is via a picturesque bridge spanning the medieval moat on the north side of the fortress, providing a theatrical entrance worthy of France’s finest châteaux.
Admire its black volcanic stone walls and seven towers crowned with lauze roofs, which have undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. During the Hundred Years’ War, it was the scene of fierce battles between the English and the French, the scars of which are still visible on some of the walls. Château du Sailhant can be recognised by its perfectly preserved medieval fortifications, and is now a landmark among the perched castles of Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
13. The Polignac fortress, an open-air museum
Built over a thousand years ago, the imposing fortress of Polignac (1 Place Saint-Joseph, 43000 Polignac, rated 4.6/5 on Google out of 562 reviews) stands on a spectacular volcanic path in the Haute-Loire. Owned by the Polignac family since it was built, this iconic château is a veritable open-air museum of the region’s turbulent history. Exciting guided tours reveal the secrets of this unique historic site.
With its 32-metre-high keep dominating the landscape, the fortress of Polignac is a remarkable defensive system literally suspended between water and the lava of ancient volcanic eruptions. This exceptional geological configuration is a fascinating testament to medieval ingenuity. Every year, a grandiose medieval show takes you on a journey through time, with knight fights, craft demonstrations and period banquets.
In conclusion, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes is an exceptional region for lovers of heritage and medieval history. These 13 perched castles embody the architectural and cultural wealth of this fascinating region. Each fortress tells a unique story, offering spectacular panoramas of volcanic landscapes, lush green valleys and shimmering lakes. Whether you’re a history buff, a keen walker or simply looking for authentic discoveries, these hilltop castles promise unforgettable visits. Don’t hesitate to extend your stay by visiting Lyon, the region’s gastronomic capital, to complete your immersion in the exceptional heritage of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.
FAQ
Which is the most visited hilltop castle in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes?
The Château de Grignan in the Drôme is one of the most visited, thanks to its link with the Marquise de Sévigné and its rich cultural programme. The Château de Murol in the Puy-de-Dôme also attracts many visitors with its immersive medieval events.
Can perched castles be visited all year round?
Most châteaux are open all year round, with opening times varying according to the season. Some, such as Château de Murol, are only closed on 14 July. It is advisable to check the opening times before your visit, particularly in winter.
Which hilltop castles are suitable for families with children?
Murol castle and Billy fortress offer activities specially designed for children, with treasure hunts, dramatised tours and medieval workshops. Château de Val also offers fun activities for younger visitors during the summer months.
How long will it take to visit a hilltop castle?
Allow an average of 1? to 2 hours for a complete visit, including the exteriors, interiors and panoramic viewpoints. Some châteaux, such as Grignan or the Domaine de Vizille, require half a day to take full advantage of the gardens and museums.
Are any hilltop châteaux accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Accessibility varies from one château to another. The Domaine de Vizille and the Château de Grignan offer adapted routes. Because of their medieval architecture and hilltop location, some châteaux, such as Crussol and Polignac, are very difficult to access. It is advisable to contact each site directly for further information.
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