Montréal sits on a hill in the southern foothills of the Tanargue massif. The Château de Montréal reflects the town’s medieval and Renaissance architectural history; the hiking trails reveal other facets, from the dry-stone walls along the Chemin des Cortasses to the shade, streams and old pines along the Chemin des Fades. Architectural history and landscape thus stand side by side as distinct highlights.

The château and local history

The Château de Montréal is a château dating from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Its keep dates back to the 12th century and is unique in the region. By decree of 28 December 2000, the Château was listed as a historic monument. Its elevated position historically made it possible to control access to Largentière and its silver mines. Architectural history and the site’s strategic position are thus closely linked: the keep points to the 12th century, while the location reflects the town’s former importance.

About 50 metres from the Château stands the Tour dite de Joyeuse. Carved corbels are located near the entrance on its north façade.

The Château de Montréal offers medieval activities suitable for families. Calligraphy is available for children aged six and over, and archery and crossbow shooting for children aged five and over. There are also palet and skittles games, as well as colouring activities. The age guidance makes it easier to compare the options when choosing activities with children.

Two hiking trails starting from Place du village

The Circuit n°12: Le chemin des Cortasses circular trail starts and ends at Place du village. It passes remarkable dry-stone walls known as faïsses, built by farming stonemasons. The trail therefore showcases a form of rural craftsmanship as well as the landscape. It is open daily throughout the year and free to access.

The Chemin des Fades also starts and ends at Place du village. Shady sections along the way offer views of the Château de Montréal, while babbling streams and old pines create a woodland atmosphere. Vegetation and views can vary with the seasons. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Public transport routes E13 and X74 are mentioned in connection with the Chemin des Fades. Check the timetables for E13 and X74 before travelling. Place du village is recommended as the parking area for this trail.

Landscape and choosing a trail

North of Montréal, there are panoramic views of the Tanargue massif and the Cham du Crau. A marked hiking trail also runs less than 500 metres from the Source du Toufache. Both details add distinct landscape references to the descriptions of the château and trails.

If you are choosing between the two trails, the Chemin des Cortasses focuses on the faïsses and rural craftsmanship, while the Chemin des Fades offers shady paths, streams, old pines and views of the Château. Both start and end at Place du village, but their features appeal to different interests.

Discover more destinations: Orgnac L'aven, Labastide-sur-Bésorgues, Prades, Les Salelles, Malarce-Sur-La-Thines, Saint-André-En-Vivarais, Asperjoc, Châteauneuf-de-Vernoux.

Go to the regional travel overview: Ardèche.