Discovery
Visit Saint-Montan: calades, castle and walk in the old town
The old town of Saint-Montan can be explored on foot: a climb through the calades, arched passages, then the castle above the houses. Allow around two hours for the walk, more if you book a guided tour or a meal in the village.
The Mas d’Eylieux is located in the town, in the hamlet of Eylieux. The medieval village is a close exit; its access on foot from the area must be prepared according to the route and the walkers.
Start with the streets
Park on the outskirts of the village and continue on foot. The slopes are irregular, the slope rises quickly in places: choose shoes that grip. In summer, in the morning or at the end of the day, avoid walking the stones during the hottest hours.
The passages are also the streets of an inhabited village. Look at door frames and archways without entering private courtyards. With children, a short walk between the streets may be enough; no need to turn each climb into an obligatory objective.
The castle and the history of volunteers
The castle dominates the old town. Access to the site, visits and activities must be checked for your dates with the Friends of Saint-Montan or the tourist office. The free tour of the streets does not guarantee free entry to the castle all year round.
The association was created in 1970, on the initiative of Abbot Arnaud, to restore Saint-André-de-Mitroys. The construction sites then extended to the village. Our article on the reconstruction of Saint-Montan tells this story using sources from the association and the town hall.
The animations of Time of the Knights belong to a particular program: consult the dates announced by the organizer, without repeating those from a previous summer.
Extend the visit, or save the walk for another day
The chapel of San Samonta and the valley of Sainte-Beaume provide other directions around the village. For a hike, prepare a marked route with its distance, elevation and access conditions for the day. Walking through the streets and a loop on natural terrain do not require the same preparation.
The period of stay changes the possibilities: heat, shorter days and seasonal openings. Visits to Viviers or in the villages of the Ardèche valley can be spread over other days. The Pont d’Arc requires a longer exit, with its own access and parking.
Return to the hamlet of Eylieux
Our six lodgings total exactly 25 beds on an area of 40 hectares. The hamlet and the old town are two different places: the photograph here shows the Mas, where you return after the visit.
To prepare the housing and mobility needs of your loved ones, contact Pascale. She will be able to check with you the accommodation chosen and the organization of the stay.
Practical questions
Is the Château de Saint-Montan open all year round?
The streets of the old town are free to explore, but access to the castle, visits and activities have their own conditions. Consult the Friends of Saint-Montan or the tourist office for the planned date.