Château de Tournoël: A Medieval Sentinel

Discover centuries of French history at Château de Tournoël, a medieval fortress overlooking Volvic, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into the lives of counts and kings.

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Château de Tournoël

Perched atop a volcanic promontory overlooking Volvic, the Château de Tournoël is a captivating medieval fortress with a rich and turbulent history. Originally built in the 12th century, it has been remodeled and rebuilt five times, each time reflecting the changing architectural styles and defensive needs of the era. The castle offers panoramic views of the Limagne plain and the Forez mountains, providing a glimpse into the strategic importance of this location throughout history. Visitors can explore the castle apartments, guardroom, kitchens, and chapel, and wander through the chatelaine's gardens. The imposing keep offers a fantastic vantage point, allowing visitors to appreciate the surrounding landscape and imagine life in medieval France. A visit to Château de Tournoël is a journey through time, offering insights into the lives of counts, kings, and the countless individuals who shaped its destiny.

A brief summary to Château de Tournoël

10 Rue des Remparts, Volvic, 63530, FR
+33673038177
Visit website

Local tips

Check the opening hours in advance, as the castle is primarily open for guided tours during July and August, with group reservations available at other times.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the castle grounds, as the terrain can be uneven in places.
Bring a camera to capture the panoramic views of the Limagne plain and the Forez mountains from the castle keep.
Combine your visit with a trip to the Volvic water factory or the nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne for a full day of exploration.
Consider booking a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the castle's history and architecture.

Getting There

Walking

If you are already in the village of Volvic, the Château de Tournoël is accessible by foot. From the center of Volvic, follow Rue des Remparts uphill. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes and offers scenic views of the village and surrounding landscape as you approach the castle. Be aware that the final section of the path is steep.
Driving

If driving from Volvic, follow the signs for Château de Tournoël. The road is narrow and winding as you ascend towards the castle. Limited free parking is available near the castle entrance. During peak season, parking can be challenging, so arrive early. Be prepared for a short walk uphill from the parking area to the castle entrance.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From the train station in Riom, a taxi or ride-share service to Château de Tournoël is a convenient option. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for the ride. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
Public Transport

From Clermont-Ferrand, take a train to Riom-Châtel-Guyon station. From there, take bus line 1 towards Volvic. Get off at the 'Le Lac' stop in Volvic, which is approximately a 12-minute walk to the castle. Bus tickets cost around €2. A single train ticket from Clermont-Ferrand to Riom-Châtel-Guyon costs approximately €5-€10.

Discover more about Château de Tournoël

Rising dramatically from a basalt knoll, the Château de Tournoël stands as a testament to centuries of Auvergne history. This medieval fortress, located above the town of Volvic, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing architectural evolution and the strategic importance of its location. The site's history stretches back to the 10th century when a watchtower is believed to have stood guard over the region. However, the castle's main structures, including the square keep and round tower, date to the 12th and 13th centuries. Throughout its existence, Château de Tournoël has been at the center of numerous conflicts, enduring five attacks and subsequent remodelings. Each siege left its mark, contributing to the castle's diverse architectural character. Originally owned by the Counts of Auvergne, the castle became a point of contention between Count Gui II and his brother, the Bishop of Clermont, in the late 12th century. In 1212, King Philippe Auguste seized the castle, transforming it into a royal possession until 1306. Over the centuries, ownership passed through various noble families, each adding their own touches to the structure. Today, visitors can explore the castle's many facets, including the living quarters, guardroom, kitchens, and chapel. The grand keep provides stunning panoramic views of the Limagne plain and the Forez mountains, offering a sense of the castle's strategic importance. The chatelaine's gardens provide a tranquil escape, showcasing the beauty and serenity that once existed within the castle walls. The castle's architecture is a blend of different periods, reflecting its long and eventful history. The square keep, dating back to the 12th century, stands as a symbol of the castle's early defensive capabilities. The round tower, constructed during the Hundred Years' War, showcases the advancements in military architecture during that era. The living quarters, built in the 15th and 16th centuries, display the ornate details and refined aesthetics of the Renaissance period. One of the most remarkable aspects of Château de Tournoël is its ongoing restoration. Since 2000, the Aguttes family has undertaken extensive efforts to preserve and restore the castle, ensuring that future generations can appreciate its historical significance. These efforts have included repairing damaged walls, restoring original flooring, and recreating the castle's "Cabinet de Curiosités," a collection of rare and exotic objects that were popular among 16th-century castle owners. Visiting Château de Tournoël is more than just a tour of an old building; it's an immersive experience that brings history to life. As you wander through the castle's rooms and gardens, you can imagine the lives of the people who once lived and worked there. You can envision the knights defending the castle walls, the cooks preparing meals in the kitchens, and the lords and ladies entertaining guests in the grand hall. The castle is open to the public for guided tours during the peak vacation months of July and August. During the rest of the year, the castle is open only to groups who have made a reservation in advance. The guided tours provide valuable insights into the castle's history and architecture, as well as the ongoing restoration efforts. Beyond the castle itself, the surrounding area offers a wealth of attractions. The town of Volvic is famous for its pure spring water and its black lava quarries. The nearby Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne offers stunning landscapes and opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. The historic city of Clermont-Ferrand, with its iconic black lava cathedral, is also within easy reach. Château de Tournoël is a destination that appeals to a wide range of interests. History buffs will appreciate the castle's rich and turbulent past. Architecture enthusiasts will be fascinated by the blend of different styles. Nature lovers will be captivated by the surrounding landscapes. And anyone seeking a unique and memorable travel experience will find it at Château de Tournoël.

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Unmissable attractions to see

Our Lady of the Guard

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Cave of the Volvic stone

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Site du Goulet

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

Discover Château de Tournoël with Evendo, a 100% free app-based travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Château de Tournoël: A Medieval Sentinel

A brief summary to Château de Tournoël

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Driving

Taxi/Ride-Share

Public Transport

Unlock the Best of Château de Tournoël

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Château de Tournoël

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Puy des Goules

L'Aventure Michelin

Route Historique des Châteaux d'Auvergne

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

Frac Auvergne

Statue of Vercingetorix

Creux de la Berté

Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park

Vierge de Monton

Auvergnetournage

Basilica of Notre-Dame in Orcival

Château d'Aulteribe

Abbatiale Saint Austremoine

Château de Parentignat

Abbaye de la Chaise-Dieu

Unmissable attractions to see

Our Lady of the Guard

Cave of the Volvic stone

Parc de la Source

Space Volvic Information

Site du Goulet

Réserve naturelle régionale des Cheires et grottes de Volvic

Puy de Lemptégy

Volcan de Lemptégy

Planetarium De Vulcania

Vulcania

Namazu à Vulcania

Dragon Ride 2 à Vulcania

Parc Montjuzet

Puy Pariou

Gour de Tazenat

Essential places to dine

Hôtel Restaurant Chante Grelet - Spa & Bulle de Détente

Restaurant du Volcan de Lemptégy

Restaurant Le Pré

Comptoir du cratère

Le Duguesclin

Auberge de la Baraque

Le Relais des Puys, Logis

Le Saint Eutrope

L'Alambic

Le Puy de la Lune Restaurant et Salle de concert (privatisation + grandes tables nous consulter)

L'Ostal

L'Ecureuil

JCL Restaurant Jean Claude Leclerc

Restaurant Gastronomique Apicius

Le Bistrot d'à Côté

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

VOLCANIC CYCLES

La Coop des Dômes

Boutique Auvergne à Vulcania

Nos belles choses

Le Comptoir Irlandais Clermont-Ferrand

Clermont Auvergne Volcanoes Office De Clermont-Ferrand

Galeries Lafayette Clermont

L'Adresse Boutique

Very Nice Things

AFK Shopping

Centre Jaude

La Galerie Nacarat

Boutiques du puy de Dôme

Stores de France

Le Store Auvergnat

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Un Singe en Hiver

Le Charleston