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Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans

Top 8 Castles around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans

Best castles around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans are found in a region characterized by its historical significance and varied landscape. Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans itself features the Château de Pollet, a historic manor visible from the exterior. The surrounding area, overlooking the Ain plain, offers several medieval sites that provide insight into the region's past. These locations present a blend of fortified towns and historical structures.

Best castles around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans

  • The most popular castles is Medieval town of Pérouges, a historical site that offers a…

Last updated: July 1, 2026

Medieval town of Pérouges

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The 15th century Ste Marie Madeleine church-fortress is a listed historical monument. Walkway, loopholes, ramparts, all make this a church almost unique in France. Its exceptional acoustic qualities make it …

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Château de Bienassis

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The Château de Bienassis in Villemoirieu, near Crémieu, was frequented by Alphonse de Lamartine.

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Cingle Castle

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Listed as historical monuments: pop.culture.gouv.fr/notice/merimee/PA00117311

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Crémieu, medieval town

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This small city of character, located 40 kilometers from Lyon has a sumptuous architectural heritage. Walking through its narrow streets, you will discover the Delphinal castle, its majestic 16th century …

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Château Delphinal of Crémieu

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The Delphinal Castle (12th century), from the top of its strategic promontory, bears witness to the development of the city: construction of imposing fortified gates (14th century), a majestic market …

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Tips from the Community

Nano G
August 2, 2025, Crémieu, cité médiévale

Beautiful little town, quite touristy, but worth the detour

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Although first mentioned in 1540, the Cingle fortified house was undoubtedly built in the second half of the 14th century by the Pèlerin family. Originally composed of a main tower and a wing back to the west, it perhaps originally included a curtain wall. During the 15th century, the south wing was extended towards the west, a main building comprising a lower room and an upper room was attached to the north of the main tower, while a turret occupied on the first floor by an oratory and on the second by a dovecote is built to the east, projecting. A wing including the kitchen on the ground floor is also built at right angles to the north of the courtyard. The farm itself retains some architectural elements dating from the 16th century. Source: Ministry of Culture

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The Bienassis fortified house, built by the Vallin family at the end of the 14th century, was organized around an enclosed courtyard and included a pavilion surrounded by watchtower turrets. The current building was completed in 1897 for Casimir Gournet, who wanted to give the old feudal residence the appearance of a medieval castle. Alphonse de Lamartine made several stays in Bienassis with his friend Nicolas Prosper Guichard, between 1804 and 1808. The castle, built of limestone rubble, consists of an L-shaped building covered with a long-pitched roof covered with mechanical tiles extended to the south by a high quadrangular tower with a porch in the work. The north wing has four levels of elevation: three cellars on the basement floor, a square floor and an attic floor. The tower rises on three levels: a ground floor with ribbed vaults and two square floors, the buildings are crowned with false machicolation. The corner turrets are covered with conical slate roofs. The stained glass windows of the ground floor living room are decorated with two bust-length women and two bust-length men in rondels. The coat of arms of the Joubert de Montlevon family can be found on one of the windows of the first living room on the ground floor. In the library, two shields with scrolling scroll motifs, a shield decorated with three female heads, a shield decorated with a passing griffin, and a shield decorated with two hammers with the initials C G for Casimir Gournet adorn the windows. Source: Châteaux de France

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The Delphinal Castle (12th century), from the top of its strategic promontory, bears witness to the development of the city: construction of imposing fortified gates (14th century), a majestic market hall (15th century), a convent of Augustins leaning against the ramparts (14th-19th century) then its cloister (16th century)... So many vestiges which are the visible traces of a past where Crémieu had military, economic and religious importance. The medieval city of Crémieu is classified as a ZPPAUP (Urban and Landscape Architectural Heritage Protection Zone). Source: Isère Tourism

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Ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, Pérouges offers you a trip to the Middle Ages. The tourist activities between April and August will allow you to see the city from another angle. Between history and terroir, this city of character 30 kilometers from Lyon will not leave you insensitive with its medieval and authentic charm. Before leaving, don't forget to taste the local speciality: the Peruvian pancake, the unmissable sugar pie.

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This small city of character, located 40 kilometers from Lyon has a sumptuous architectural heritage. Walking through its narrow streets, you will discover the Delphinal castle, its majestic 16th century hall, its cloister or its Augustinian convent. The medieval town of Crémieu is classified as a Protected Area for Urban and Landscape Architectural Heritage (ZPPAUP).

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A very beautiful town! There is a good restaurant in the center right next to the village.

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David W
September 25, 2022, Château de Bienassis

The Château de Bienassis in Villemoirieu, near Crémieu, was frequented by Alphonse de Lamartine.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most notable medieval sites to visit near Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans?

While the local Château de Pollet is a private property not open to the public, the region offers several remarkable medieval sites. The most popular is the Medieval town of Pérouges, a fortified town often cited as one of France's most beautiful villages. Another must-see is Crémieu, medieval town, known for its rich architectural heritage including the Delphinal castle and a 16th-century hall. You can also explore Cingle Castle, a fortified house first mentioned in 1540 and listed as a historical monument.

Are there any family-friendly medieval sites around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans?

Yes, both the Medieval town of Pérouges and Crémieu, medieval town are considered family-friendly. Pérouges offers an immersive experience with its cobbled streets and historical buildings, while Crémieu provides a charming atmosphere to explore its ancient vestiges.

What makes the Medieval town of Pérouges a unique historical destination?

Pérouges is unique for its exceptionally well-preserved medieval architecture, including the 15th-century Fortress Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, which features defensive walls, loopholes, and ramparts. Its cobbled streets, Renaissance residences, and the historic Place du Tilleul transport visitors back to the Middle Ages. The town's authentic setting has even been used for filming movies like "The Three Musketeers." You can find more information about Pérouges on ain-tourisme.com.

Can I visit the Château Delphinal in Crémieu?

The Château Delphinal (or Château Saint-Laurent) in Crémieu is a medieval fortress standing on a rocky outcrop. While the castle itself is private property and cannot be visited internally, a small balcony-like square is accessible to walkers, offering views of the surrounding area. The town of Crémieu itself provides a rich historical atmosphere with its fortifications and other medieval structures. For more details, visit balconsdudauphine-tourisme.com.

What outdoor activities can I do near these castles?

The region around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans offers various outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are routes like the 'Saint-Maurice Church – Hières-sur-Amby village loop' or the 'Panorama of Le Grand Large – Jonage Canal and Grand Large loop'. Mountain biking options include the 'Montellier Castle – Medieval town of Pérouges loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Cycling around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans and MTB Trails around Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans guides.

What is the best time of year to visit the castles and medieval towns?

The period between April and August is often recommended for visiting the medieval towns like Pérouges, as tourist activities are more prevalent. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the outdoor sites and walking through the cobbled streets without the intense heat of summer or the chill of winter.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known historical sites worth exploring?

While not a hidden gem in the traditional sense, the Cingle Castle, a fortified house near Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans, offers a glimpse into the region's history as a listed historical monument. Its origins date back to the 14th century, providing a less crowded but equally authentic historical experience.

What kind of architectural heritage can I expect in Crémieu?

Crémieu boasts a rich architectural heritage, classified as a Protected Area for Urban and Landscape Architectural Heritage. Visitors can explore the Delphinal castle, a majestic 16th-century hall, a cloister, and an Augustinian convent. The town's narrow streets and historical vestiges create an authentic medieval charm.

What do visitors enjoy most about the castles and medieval towns in this region?

Visitors particularly appreciate the immersive historical experience offered by the well-preserved medieval towns. The authentic atmosphere, cobbled streets, and unique architectural features like the fortified church in Pérouges or the ancient halls in Crémieu are frequently highlighted. The opportunity to step back in time and explore these charming villages is a major draw.

Is the Château de Pollet in Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans open to the public?

No, the Château de Pollet, a historic manor located directly within Saint-Maurice-De-Gourdans, is a private property. While it is visible from the exterior, it is not open for public visits.

Are there any specific local delicacies to try when visiting Pérouges?

When visiting Pérouges, be sure to try the local specialty: the Peruvian pancake, also known as the unmissable sugar pie. It's a traditional treat that adds to the authentic experience of the medieval town.

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