The Mirabel Trail connects Ménétrol with orchid watching in June; the Church of Saint Martin and Château de Bourrassol offer historical points of interest spanning several centuries. In summer, Parc Mirabel also has the AquaSplash water area. This combination of architectural history, nature and seasonal activities gives you concrete points of reference for choosing when to travel based on your own interests.

Château de Bourrassol and modern history

The medieval Château de Bourrassol was built in the 13th century on a hill overlooking the royal road from Riom to Clermont. The Château de Bourrassol visible today dates from the late 16th century. Its location on the royal road adds a concrete connection to the route between Riom and Clermont to the date of the medieval building.

The château’s history in the 20th century is also linked to specific names and dates. In connection with the famous “Procès de Riom,” among others, Léon Blum, Édouard Daladier, General Laure and General Gamelin were held there. Léon Blum stayed there from December 1940 to March 1943. Thus, alongside the building’s history, the historical events surrounding the trial offer a distinct perspective on the château.

The church and other traces of the past

The oldest part of the Church of Saint Martin dates from the 12th century. This means that one architectural landmark in Ménétrol dates back further than Château de Bourrassol. You will also encounter numerous crosses on walks around Ménétrol. These broaden the view of the local heritage beyond the named buildings and are another feature to look out for as you stroll through the town.

Nature and orchids

Colline de Mirabel is a sensitive natural area (Espace naturel sensible) in Ménétrol. Nature and heritage therefore form distinct, specifically identified aspects of the town’s character.

For a nature-watching outing, you can walk the Mirabel Trail in June and see numerous orchids there: purple orchid, lizard orchid, fly orchid, bee orchid and bumblebee orchid, bird’s-nest orchid and narrow-leaved helleborine. The specific species names give your observation a clear focus. Since flowering times can vary with the weather, allow some flexibility when planning your trip if the orchids are a deciding factor in your choice of dates.

Seasonal activities and regional character

In summer, Parc Mirabel has the AquaSplash water area. It includes an inflatable course with water, the AquaWave slide and water games. Here, the course, slide and water take centre stage; the Mirabel Trail is about walking and watching orchids. June is the specific month for nature watching on the trail, while AquaSplash is a summer offering. Before you travel, check whether AquaSplash is open during your intended visit.

Ménétrol is part of the “Coteaux de Châteaugay” appellation area. This connection adds a wine-related dimension to the themes of architectural history and nature. If you also choose destinations based on their regional character, you can take this affiliation into account alongside the historical and seasonal points of interest.

Discover more destinations: Giat, Brousse, Montaigut, Randan, Le Monestier, Saint-Genès-Champanelle, Saint-Rémy-Sur-Durolle, Teilhet.

Back to the main travel overview: Puy-De-Dôme.