There are 3 major castles to visit during your stay in Drôme: Montélimar Castle, Grignan Castle and Suze La Rousse Castle
Photos : L.Pascale – Drôme Attractivité
Grignan castle and its Nighttime Festivities
The Château de Grignan is the largest Renaissance palace in southeastern France. It offers a breathtaking 360° panorama of Provence and the lavender fields. It was the residence of the Marquise de Sévigné until her death.
Here, 1,000 years of history have unfolded. Over the centuries, it was first a fortified castle and then a prestigious residence. It was in the 17th century that the Count of Grignan's house experienced its most prosperous period. His marriage to the daughter of the Marquise de Sévigné brought it its current fame. This led to the incredible correspondence between mother and daughter, which would later lead to the Marquise's posthumous fame and the château's reputation.
Destroyed during the Revolution, it was rebuilt in the early 20th century and designated a Museum of France.
Today, every summer, during the Grignan night festivals, a theatrical work featuring famous actors is presented in the castle's main courtyard.
Suze-la-Rousse castle
This imposing fortress overlooks the Côtes du Rhône vineyards and bears witness to 1,000 years of history. It belonged to the great family of the Princes of Orange. Over time, the castle was transformed: initially, it was a simple keep and its defensive tower. Then, a main courtyard and apartments were created, and finally, a park was laid out.
Additional improvements a century later, notably with large windows and new decor, transformed it into a peaceful retreat.
Labeled "Secrets de Terroir," it houses the University of Wine, a center for training and education.
Today, with its vast wooded park and apartments, this castle is a popular destination for visitors of all ages thanks to the fun activities on offer.
Montélimar Castle
Through several fun and entertaining trails, young and old alike will discover the history of this astonishing citadel on the heights of the town of Montélimar. Over the centuries, it has undergone numerous restorations and served various purposes, ranging from a palace to a prison. It can be reached on foot from the town center, and its 360° panorama will make you want to immerse yourself in the Middle Ages.
