Rochefort-En-Valdaine is shaped by a medieval site whose history can be traced through three motte-and-bailey castles, defensive walls, and a keep. There is also the Saint-Blaise Chapel, a panoramic view over the RhĂ´ne Valley, and hiking trails with different destinations. Several themes can shape your stay: building history and architecture, the view from the keep, a route to the Vallon de la Citelle or the Janeston Plateau, or the cuisine at La Fontaine de Rocoule restaurant.
A site with several layers of history
The medieval site began to take shape in the 11th century around three motte-and-bailey castles built along a rocky ridge. Defensive walls surround the site. The three castles describe the layout along the ridge, while the walls enclose the medieval site as a whole. The old village stood at the foot of the castle and was abandoned in 1907. The village and castle site are therefore different reference points in the area’s history: one detail describes the location of the old village, the other the early development of the fortified site. Together, they provide a historical and geographical framework for the history of the place.
The keep and Saint-Blaise Chapel
The keep is 18 metres high and still has its original vaulted hall. A staircase leads to the terrace atop the keep, which offers a panoramic view over the RhĂ´ne Valley. Its height, interior, and views reveal different aspects of the same building: its external dimensions, a surviving interior space, and a view of the landscape. The Saint-Blaise Chapel adds its own architectural feature. It dates from the 14th century and has a Gothic entrance porch. The restored chapel is open to visitors. Check the opening arrangements before your trip.
Protection for the building and landscape
The entire castle complex—including the defensive ring, keep, residential buildings, and Saint-Blaise Chapel—has been listed as a Monument historique since 6 September 2011. This is distinct from its designation as a site classé, which protects the castle complex and its surroundings because of their considerable architectural, historical, and landscape value. The two designations therefore focus on different aspects: one on the components of the complex, and the other also on their connection to the landscape.
Two hiking trails, different destinations
The circular trail in the Vallon de la Citelle leads to the hamlet of La Citelle. Points of interest along the way include charcoal kilns, a chapel, and the river. Le Janeston runs from the medieval site to the slopes of the Citelles Valley and up to the Janeston Plateau. The routes can be distinguished by their stated destinations: the Vallon de la Citelle trail focuses on the hamlet and the points of interest listed above, while Le Janeston takes in the valley slopes and plateau. This lets you choose a hike based on the landscape and destination that interest you most.
A specific restaurant address
La Fontaine de Rocoule restaurant in Rochefort-En-Valdaine serves cuisine inspired by Haut-Lyonnais. Regional dishes include frog legs, andouillette, calf’s head, and snails. This restaurant adds a culinary highlight to the options for your stay alongside the castle complex, chapel, and hiking trails.
Discover more destinations: Ponet-Et-Saint-Auban, Anneyron, Léoncel, Beaumont-Monteux, La Charce, Pontaix, Marignac-En-Diois, Saint-Auban-Sur-L'ouvèze.
For the wider travel overview: DrĂ´me.
