Background

Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne: A Medieval Stronghold

Explore the medieval ruins of Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the past in the heart of the Ardennes.

4.1

Explore the imposing ruins of the Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne, a medieval castle dating back to the 11th century. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the castle offers stunning views of the Ourthe valley and a glimpse into the region's rich history.

A brief summary to Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-6 pm
  • Friday 10 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Check the schedule for falconry shows and medieval events for an enhanced experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle ruins, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Visit in the evening to witness the ghost show, a unique spectacle based on local legends.
  • Be aware that the site may be closed in snowy or icy conditions.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of La Roche-en-Ardenne, the Château Féodal is a short, uphill walk. Follow Rue du Vieux Château from Place du Bronze, the main square. The walk takes approximately 10-15 minutes, offering scenic views of the town and the Ourthe River. Note that the route is steep in places.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus lines connect La Roche-en-Ardenne to nearby towns and train stations. From the bus stop at Quai de l'Ourthe, it's a 15-minute walk to the castle via Rue du Vieux Château. Bus lines include 11B, 13, 15, 49 and 59. A single bus fare costs approximately €3.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in La Roche-en-Ardenne. A taxi ride from the town center to the castle costs approximately €10-€15. Contact the tourist office for taxi service information.

  • Parking

    Limited parking is available near the castle. Additional parking can be found in the town center, such as at Place du Bronze and Parking Casino. Parking fees typically cost €1 per hour, with 30 minutes free in paid zones. Be aware that parking may be limited during peak season and events.

Unlock the Best of Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne

The Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne, a prominent historical site, invites visitors to explore its ancient ruins and immerse themselves in the medieval world. The castle's origins trace back to the 11th century, with evidence suggesting the site was previously a Celtic oppidum and a Roman fort. Over the centuries, it evolved into a strategic stronghold, playing a vital role in regional trade and defense. In 1331, the town was authorized to build ramparts, and the castle underwent several renovations to adapt to changing warfare and artillery techniques. The French conquered the castle in 1681 and rebuilt it to withstand new artillery. In the late 17th century, under Louis XIV, the castle was reinforced by Candau, a disciple of Vauban, featuring doubled walls, an artillery terrace, a cistern, casemates, and a gunpowder magazine. Abandoned in 1780, the castle was later stripped of materials by villagers. Today, the castle ruins offer a captivating experience with towers, dungeons and underground rooms. Archaeological excavations have uncovered artifacts from daily life, including pottery shards, a whetstone, and even Roman coins. Visitors can enjoy falconry displays, medieval entertainment, and, on certain evenings, a ghost show featuring the legend of Countess Berthe de La Roche. The site is not accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Popular Experiences near Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne

Popular Hotels near Château Féodal de La Roche-en-Ardenne

Select Currency