The village of La Bégude developed in the 13th century in the valley along the Jabron River, at the crossroads of the two main roads along the « grand chemin ferrat ». At first, the hamlet was a stopping place for travellers, where the Jabron was crossed by a ford, footbridges or a bridge. The river and the roads together form part of the historic character of the place.

Traces of Earlier Uses and Building History

In the Quartier des Moulins, one or two former mills are still visible on Rue des Moulins near the Auberge « L’Écu de France ». They have been partly or entirely converted into homes. The buildings thus bring together their former use as mills and their later residential function.

The grounds of Parc et château Loubet are privately owned. They were established in the 14th century, and only a few remains from that period have survived.

The bell tower of Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens dates from 1478; Chapelle de Notre-Dame du Mont-Carmel has Romanesque origins. The two buildings offer different points of interest: an exact date for the bell tower, and Romanesque origins for the chapel. Fontaine de la Naïade celebrates water as a life-giving source: a naiad, two children, a shell and fish appear as allegorical figures from ancient mythology.

Explore Châteauneuf-de-Mazenc on Foot

The old village of Châteauneuf-de-Mazenc, restored in the 20th century, is surrounded by a medieval wall. The gateway and belfry are particularly noteworthy. Le tour du Mont Carmel is a short circular walk exploring the old village and its surroundings.

From the “Pierris” signpost at 270 m, the route first follows the yellow and red markings east along the road to “Perlonne” at 257 m; from there, follow the yellow markings. Check the route markings and trail conditions locally before setting out on the circular walk.

Landscape and Other Experiences

From Châteauneuf-de-Mazenc, there are wide-ranging views across the Valdaine plain to the Rhône Valley and the Ardèche. In La Bégude, you can also explore the Centre écologique de l’Hirondelle aux Champs and its educational trail. The panoramic view and the trail offer different points of interest: landscape on the one hand, and ecology on the other. The centre’s visitor programme may change.

The seasonal “Visite découverte de la Lavande” includes learning about the harvesting and distillation of lavender and lavandin. A glass demonstration still shows how essential oil is extracted. As the activity is seasonal and the programme may change, check the dates in advance.

Camping Site Change in 2022

On 1 May 2022, the municipal campsite was replaced by an Aire operated by Camping-Car Park. At the time, the Aire was open 24 hours a day, all year round, and accepted motorhomes only. Before planning an overnight stay, check whether the Aire is currently available.

Discover more destinations: Chaudebonne, Montrigaud, Jaillans, Tain-L'hermitage, Bouchet, Pierrelongue, Hauterives, Montsegur Sur Lauzon.

For the main travel overview: Drôme.