Located on the slopes of the Forez, Marcoux links the plain with the Forez Mountains. At the Vaux dam, the village borders the Lignon, a major river in the Pays d’Astrée. The landscape and architectural history shape travel plans, along with cultural and culinary experiences.

Forez Landscape and a Panoramic Walk

The Chemin de Bélizar starts at Château de Goutelas and crosses the Montaubourg volcano as a five-kilometre panoramic walking route. Vineyards and forests line the way. Its starting point, length and route give the walk a clear framework: it links the path at the château with views over Montaubourg and the landscape between vineyards and forests. This is a different focus from the Lignon, which borders Marcoux near Vaux.

Château de Goutelas: Fortified House and Cultural Venue

Château de Goutelas is a medieval fortified house that was converted into a Renaissance residence in the 16th century. Its history therefore encompasses two distinct building phases: the medieval fortified complex and its later transformation into a Renaissance-style residence. The château has been awarded the “Centre culturel de rencontre” label by the French Ministry of Culture.

The château is also a specific landmark for planning a visit to the Chemin de Bélizar, as the walking route starts there. The château’s outdoor areas are freely accessible. Check the current access conditions before your visit, as they may change.

Saint-Christophe and Other Traces of History

The parish church of Saint-Christophe in Marcoux was rebuilt between 1880 and 1882 by the architect J. Eclache. It also preserves parts of an earlier building from the 11th century: masonry remains at the narthex serve as the foundation for the present-day bell tower. The church thus brings together building elements from different historical periods.

Its elongated floor plan, side aisles and rib vaults give the church a clearly defined architectural form. Side aisles run alongside the nave; rib vaults divide a ceiling with intersecting ribs. The oldest crosses in Marcoux are also part of its architectural heritage: they are made entirely of stone and date from several centuries.

Horse-Riding Activities and Local Produce

A route near Montaubourg leads, among other places, to the Centre Equestre Régional du Forez. By arrangement, it offers rides in small groups. Private riding lessons are also available, particularly on the Chemin de Bélizar. If you plan to take part in either activity, arrange it in advance and check the current booking conditions.

A visit to Domaine des Terrasses is planned for 2026 and 2027, ending with a tasting of the region’s diverse terroirs and a platter of local produce. This offers a culinary focus alongside walking and architectural history.

Discover more destinations: Champdieu, Chambles, Andrézieux-Bouthéon, Bellegarde-en-Forez, St. Alban Les Eaux, Pouilly-sous-Charlieu, Saint-Pierre-De-Bœuf, La Valla-En-Gier.

Return to the main travel overview: Loire.