Top 11 Castles around Tarascon
Best castles around Tarascon are situated in a region rich in history and natural beauty, nestled on the banks of the Rhône River. This area, part of Provence, features a diverse landscape ranging from riverine plains to rocky outcrops, providing strategic locations for historical fortifications. The cultural significance of Tarascon is deeply rooted in its medieval past, with its castles serving as key defensive structures and centers of power. The surrounding natural features, including the Rhône and nearby Alpilles, contribute to the area's distinct character.
Best castles around Tarascon
- The most popular castles is View of Les Baux-de-Provence, a settlement that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. This location provides a fantastic perspective of Les Baux-de-Provence, known for its embedded rock structures.
- Another must-see spot is Boulbon Village and Castle, a historical site with a fortified castle overlooking a medieval village. Visitors can explore narrow streets, old houses, and the Loriol Gate, experiencing a typical Provençal setting.
- Visitors also love Montauban Castle, a castle and historical site. This beautiful château, surrounded by olive trees, dates back to the 17th century and served as a country house and a place of art and culture.
- Tarascon is known for its medieval fortified castles and historic châteaux. The region offers a variety of castles to see and explore, from well-preserved defensive structures to elegant country estates.
- The castles around Tarascon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 550 upvotes and 140 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
View of Les Baux-de-Provence
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Les Baux-de-Provence
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Fourques Castle
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This quadrilateral with formerly crenellated curtain walls, flanked by four corner towers, is a remarkable and very well preserved example of medieval civil and military architecture. The surrounding walls, as they appear to us today, appear to date from the 12th century. The tower covers date from the beginning of the 17th century. The battlements were dismantled during the revolution. The courtyard retains a remarkable basket-handle well.
In 1070 Raymond IV of St Gilles, Count of Toulouse, took the side of Aicard, archbishop of Arles, and returned to him “the third part of the castle of Fourques and half of that of Albaron”
In 1181, the building was besieged by Alphonse of Aragon, then at war with Raymond of Toulouse who held Fourques and his castle in fief of the Archbishop of Arles.
In 1215, Simon de Montfort paid liege homage to Archbishop Michel de Moriès, and took the whole of Terre d'Argence (including Beaucaire and Fourques) into fiefdom.
In 1229, after the Treaty of Meaux, Terre d’Argence joined the royal domain.
In 1470, under the reign of Louis
In 1562, (First War of Religion) The “religionists” (Protestants) seized the castle in May, they did not keep it long but had time to degrade and ruin the church of the place which was not rebuilt that towards the end of the century. On June 2, Catholic troops from Provence crossed the Rhône at Tarascon and captured the castle of Fourques, driving out the Protestants on July 10. »
From the 17th century to the Revolution, the castle was acquired successively by the sieur de Créquy, whose heir was the constable of Lesdiguières, then by Mr. de Moynier, general treasurer of France, finally by Mr. de Bon, first president of the Court of Auditors of Montpellier.
In 1810, Henriette Suzanne de Boissy d'Anglas, (daughter of the Conventional Deputy François Antoine de Boissy d'Anglas) bought the castle and had it restored under the direction of Auguste Véran, Arlesian architect of historical monuments.
Today, his heirs still own it. fourques.com/chateau-de-fourques
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Montauban Castle
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Today, the Château de Montauban is a true treasure of Provence and a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. One can stroll through its gardens, admire the works of art displayed in the rooms, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet radiated from the castle's thick walls.
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King René's Castle, or Tarascon Castle
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Tips from the Community
From here you have a fantastic view of Baux de Provence.
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It's worth a visit if you're nearby. Everything is very well preserved. 👍👍👍
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It is clearly better to go there during the week and outside the high season 😅
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to avoid absolutely on weekends, too much cars and people. A kind of french Disneyland
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It is a pleasant route, embedded in the rock, with beautiful views of the surrounding area.
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nice climb, good road, little traffic
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The beautiful Château de Montauban in Fontvieille as it stands majestically surrounded by olive trees and the scent of lavender. Its history dates back to the 17th century when it was built as a country house for the de Montauban family. But it was not only a place to live, but also a place of art and culture. Famous poets and writers such as Alphonse Daudet and Frédéric Mistral visited the castle and were inspired by its beauty and atmosphere. Today, the Château de Montauban is a true treasure of Provence and a popular destination for visitors from all over the world. One can stroll through its gardens, admire the works of art displayed in the rooms, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet radiated from the castle's thick walls.
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Very pleasant route starting from St Rémy de Provence. After the climb to Les Baux (a little steep without a VAE), the circuit is easy, the old Roman aqueduct interesting to see and finally a great little road between St Étienne du Grès and St Rémy de Provence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most historically significant castle in Tarascon?
The most prominent and historically significant castle is the Château de Tarascon, also known as King René's Castle. Built between 1400 and 1435, it stands as a magnificent example of medieval architecture and is remarkably well-preserved. It served as a strategic fortress on the Rhône River and later as a state prison, with evidence of its past visible in its 30+ rooms and graffiti.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit around Tarascon?
Yes, several castles in the region offer a family-friendly experience. Montauban Castle is noted as family-friendly, offering beautiful grounds surrounded by olive trees. The Château de Tarascon also hosts the René d'Anjou Art Center, which integrates historical heritage with contemporary art, potentially engaging for older children.
What kind of panoramic views can I expect from the castles in the Tarascon area?
Many castles offer exceptional views. From the immense terrace at the top of King René's Castle, you can enjoy panoramic vistas over the Rhône River, the Alpilles, and the Montagnette. Additionally, the View of Les Baux-de-Provence offers a fantastic perspective of the surrounding area, known for its embedded rock structures.
Can I explore medieval villages alongside castles?
Absolutely. Boulbon Village and Castle is a perfect example, featuring a fortified castle overlooking a typical Provençal medieval village. You can stroll through its narrow streets, admire old houses, and see the historic Loriol Gate.
What outdoor activities can I do near the castles around Tarascon?
The region offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'Grès Lookout – Saint-Gabrielle Chapel loop,' or explore mountain hikes like the 'Lake Peïroou – Mount Gaussier loop.' Cycling is also popular, with routes like the 'Tarascon–Arles Cycle Path.' For more details and routes, check out the Running Trails around Tarascon, Mountain Hikes around Tarascon, and Cycling around Tarascon guides.
What makes the Château de Tarascon unique architecturally?
The Château de Tarascon is unique for its exceptional preservation and blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Its robust structure, with strong, barely pierced walls and towers of the same height, presents a formidable appearance. The interior contrasts with elegant Renaissance-style decoration in the main courtyard and 'French-style' ceilings adorned with painted wooden planks.
Are there any lesser-known but interesting castles to visit?
While not as widely known as the Château de Tarascon, Fourques Castle is a remarkable and very well-preserved example of medieval civil and military architecture. This fortified four-sided farmer's castle, with its formerly crenellated curtain walls and corner towers, dates back to the 12th century and offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles around Tarascon?
The region enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are generally considered the best times to visit, offering pleasant temperatures for exploring both the castles and the surrounding natural beauty. Summers can be very hot, while winters are mild but can be damp.
What historical periods do the castles in Tarascon represent?
The castles around Tarascon primarily represent the medieval and early modern periods. The Château de Tarascon, for instance, was built between 1400 and 1435, showcasing late medieval and early Renaissance styles. Fourques Castle dates back to the 12th century, while Montauban Castle is a 17th-century country house, reflecting different architectural and historical functions.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking near the castles?
Yes, the area around Tarascon is excellent for walking and hiking. You can find routes that pass by or offer views of castles. For example, there are various walking routes near Boulbon Village and Castle, allowing you to explore the village and its surroundings. Many routes are available in the Running Trails around Tarascon and Mountain Hikes around Tarascon guides.
What are some notable natural features near the castles?
The castles are nestled in a region rich in natural beauty. The Château de Tarascon is strategically located on the banks of the Rhône River. The surrounding landscape includes the nearby Alpilles mountain range and the Montagnette, offering diverse scenery from riverine plains to rocky outcrops. Many viewpoints, like the View of Les Baux-de-Provence, highlight these natural features.
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