Top 10 Castles in Puy-de-Dome, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The luxurious home of a nobleman of the Middle Ages. The Château de Villeneuve-Lembron, built in the late 15th century for Rigault d’Aureille, is a fine example of stately residences of the early Renaissance. It is home to a remarkable collection of murals from the early 16th century that bring medieval imaginations to life. During the second half of the 16th century, the walls were decorated with superb grotesques. Then in the 17th century, the ceilings, wood panelling and fireplaces were richly painted. Amongst other things, the château holds some very beautiful Aubusson tapestries depicting the stories of Alexander the Great and Godfrey of Bouillon. You can also find some magnificent frescoes from the 16th century in the former stables.

The Château d’Aulteribe is acknowledged as one of the best and most sumptuously furnished noble residences in France. It features some superb works of art such as the portrait of Cardinal Richelieu by Philippe de Champaigne, Flemish and Aubusson tapestries, porcelain etc. The furniture collection includes pieces by the finest cabinet - makers of the 17th and 18th century. This tradition is kept alive at the Château d’Aulteribe today in the workshops which train cabinetmakers and restore items from the collection. The new display highlights the Château’s finest pieces and visitors can wander freely through the rooms for a more intimate encounter with the spirit of Aulteribe. Open: > 15th May to 15th September: from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 6.30 p.m. > 16th September to 14th May: from 10 a.m. to noon and from 2 p.m. to 5.30 p.m. Closed: > Mondays from 16 September to 14 May. > 1st January, 1st May, 1st November, 11th November and 25th December. Admission fees: Adults : 7,50 €; Concessions (18 to 25) = 4,50 €; Free admission: minors under 18*; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groups

The chateau of Parentignat was built between 1707 and 1720 by Anne-Francois de Lastic, Marquess of Sieujac and Captain of a Royal infantry regiment, on the foundations of an old fortress. The chateau remains in the family to this day and is the object of an extensive restoration programme. The landscaped gardens can be viewed from the terrace at the back of the chateau, which is lined with heirloom roses and fantastic orange trees in their original 18th century pots. The gaiety of this green and pleasant "natural" garden provides a stark contrast with the formal geometry of the lawns in the front courtyard which have been restored recently, along with the avenue of lime trees leading to the chateau's entrance.The chateau has always been renowned for being so sumptuously appointed. Its furniture and art collections have always been exceptional. A Geocaching session in the park of the castle is a must for a family attraction !

The Chateau Dauphin is a private castle property of the count of Germiny. The castle was built in 1190, strenghtened during the 15th century and the restauration of the inside of the fortress were made in 1885 by Cesar III, the count of Germiny ancestor. You can visit the garden and the french garden, the stables, the carriage, few rooms ( living room, library, dining room, the dungeoon and the inner court). You can also climb up a tower to have a wonderfull view of the parc and in the end have a walk arround the castle on the batlement.