Medieval road trip
In the Grand Pic Saint-Loup, there are many traces of the Middle Ages. From village to village or from church to castle, travelling along the small roads of the Grand Pic Saint-Loup offers history lovers and the simply curious a real journey back in time.
Here are a few points of reference
for a nice route around the Peak. Follow the guide...
1-Le Château de Baulx
Dominating the beautiful village of Saint-Jean-de-Buèges, the castle of Baulx is a fortress of the 11th and 12th centuries, reworked and enlarged in the 14th and 15th centuries.
In the 18th century, the castle fell into disuse and was even used as a stone storehouse, before being restored in 1990. Today it is a meeting place for the village and its festivities.
The castle hosts guided tours in summer and even storytelling walks. There are exhibitions, conferences and
and concerts.
Note: In February, the Saint-Jean-de-Buèges country day, dedicated to truffles, wines and local products
2-La place de l'église
Did the English stay in the region?
It seems rather that the word "London" comes from the Occitan "loundras" which means
"marshes". The area was indeed marshy before the reclamation work carried out by the Benedictine monks and the construction of the fortified village of Saint-Martin-de-Londres.
Today, the medieval heritage has been harmoniously integrated into the village, creating a real setting for its jewel: the Romanesque church of Saint-Martin.
To help youngsters discover Saint-Martin-de-Londres, follow the clues of the mascot Léo, the ocellated lizard, in a discovery rally.
Information at the Tourist Office of the Grand Pic Saint-Loup.
3-Les ruelles du village
In the 13th century, Les Matelles was considered the "capital" of the Republic of Montferrand thanks to the charters and franchises granted by the Bishop of Maguelone, Count of Melgueil (Mauguio) and of Montferrand.
From this period, the village has kept its cobbled streets, its stone houses with outside staircases and its vaulted passages which give it its timeless charm and encourage you to stroll around.
Not to be missed is the Museum of Art and Archaeology, housed in the Maison des Consuls in the heart of the village.
Strolling through the streets of the town, you can navigate between past and present through the architectural testimonies of the Middle Ages and the know-how of the many craftsmen of the village.
Tucked away behind its medieval walls, which in the 15th century protected the inhabitants from danger, Viols-le-Fort is a fine example of a preserved heritage.
From Viols-le-Fort, you can set off on the Sentier des Drailles, leading to the eponymous dolmen: it is a hiking trail laid out on this ancient land of transhumance.
5-Le Château de Viviourès
Formerly the property of the Count of Melgueil, the castle was used as a stronghold and as a residence, and changed its name several times. The current name comes from the Bevieures family who lived there in the 18th century. From the Occitan "bien viure", it evokes a place where life is good.
Now closed to visitors, it remains a visual witness to the medieval past opposite the castle of Montferrand, marking the entrance to a magnificent road that links Saint-Mathieu-de-Tréviers to Saint-Martin-de-Londres, via the Fambetou pass.
6-Une coquette placette
In the heart of the village of Guzargues, visit a small square lined with pretty facades: you will see a restored bread oven and the desire of its inhabitants to put flowers in the area.
Don't miss the small Romanesque church, listed as a historical monument, framed on two sides by the buildings of the former presbytery.
