Perched on the top of a rocky spur overlooking the Loire, the fortress of Rochebaron, with its towers, arrowslits, machicolations and ramparts, is characteristic of the defensive buildings of the Middle Ages.
Located in the municipality of Bas-en-Basset in Haute-Loire, this castle fort, a listed Historic Monument, still has three fortified walls, a 25-metre high tower, the remains of a chapel and a main dwelling. It houses two museums and an exhibition trail with explanation signs to immerse you in the history of the place and the lords of Rochebaron.
A steep path will lead you to the castle in about twenty minutes of walking. You will be amply rewarded for this little climb by the stunning view of the Loire Valley and the Meygal massif!
Another unusual attraction: from April to the end of October, an aviary at the castle offers impressive falconry shows, during which majestic birds of prey fly freely.
Located in the municipality of Bas-en-Basset, this medieval castle dates from the eleventh century. This is one of the first castles of the Loire. Listed building in 1951, it is one of the most impressive ruins of Auvergne.
Perched on a rocky outcrop 653 meters above sea level, the castle offers a view. Aided by the viewpoint, one can discover the geographical extent of the area to Meygal.
Six families have followed it: the Rochebaron from 950 to 1434, then-Chalencon Rochebaron until 1618 then the Serpens, the de la Rochefoucauld, the Giry and of Fisicat until the Revolution.
Abandoned, the castle fell into ruins but its restoration began through volunteers and the association "Friends of Rochebaron" created in 1972.
After a slight rise of about twenty minutes on a wide path through the woods, we discover this vast fortress containing several speakers: its gatehouse / fortified Chapel framed its two turrets, two large towers, among others.
A Traditional Archery club for enthusiasts offering many tournaments.
A medieval festival is held on the site in summer. Many participants stroll in period costume and offer any animation.
The castle museum offers an exhibition of various items discovered during the restoration, and educational models explaining the architecture in place.
