A 40-metre-high keep at the Château de Pesteils and a waymarked, 3-kilometre circular trail along the Cère show two different sides of Polminhac: historic buildings and paths through the countryside. If you are planning a stay, you can start by choosing what interests you most: the châteaux and Église Saint-Victor offer a glimpse of architectural history, while the trails bring the river, forests, heights and views into focus.

Châteaux and historic traces

The Château de Pesteils was built in the 13th, 17th and 19th centuries; its keep is 40 metres high. The entire Château de Clavières complex is protected as a historic monument. It includes the chapel, outbuildings, park and pond. It was listed by decree on 6 October 2021.

The fortified Château de Vixouze is mentioned as early as 1267. It retains a rectangular keep, a chapel built in the 17th century and a bread oven. Other structural changes include its conversion into a pavilion in the 17th century, an enclosing wall dating from 1719, a rear building from the 18th century and a well from the 19th century. The dates 1613 and 1777 are inscribed on a barn. The dates mark phases of construction and alteration over several centuries.

Église Saint-Victor also offers a glimpse into the early history of the area: its oldest parts, including the choir and bell tower, date from the early 13th century. The bell tower may even date from the late 12th century. Another historic connection is Jacques Berthieu: he was born in Polminhac and was killed as a martyr in Madagascar in 1896.

Trails between river, forest and viewpoints

The Boucle des Gravières is an easy, waymarked 3-kilometre circular trail along the Cère. It passes through a small forest and by a hidden lake in the valley. The route is available year-round, weather and snow conditions permitting. Autour du Donjon climbs to the heights of Polminhac, mostly through forest, and offers various views of the Monts du Cantal and the château. The Boucle des châteaux, in turn, offers various views of the Château de Clavières in Polminhac.

The routes highlight different aspects of the landscape: the Boucle des Gravières focuses on the river, forest and lake; Autour du Donjon climbs to the heights, combining forest with views of the Monts du Cantal and the château; while the Boucle des châteaux offers views of Clavières. You can choose a trail to suit the landscapes you want to see, without having to follow a particular order.

Practical visitor information

The access road to the Château de Pesteils is narrow. Visitors with large vehicles are advised to park in Polminhac and walk about 15 minutes to the château. Allow time for this walk and check the latest access information before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Julien-de-Toursac, Pailherols, Jou-Sous-Monjou, Nieudan, Saint-Gérons, Cassaniouze, Virargues, Lapeyrugue.

For the broader travel guide: Cantal.