Discover Peyraud: Château, Chapel and Rhône Paths

When planning a stay in Peyraud, architectural history, walking trails and event dates can offer different points of focus. The Château de Peyraud and the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Pitié de Verlieux are examples of historic architecture; the paths lead through vineyards, a wooded valley and the Rhône corridor. Markets and a parish festival also offer specific dates around which you can plan your trip.

Château, Chapel and Architectural History

The Château de Peyraud preserves two vaulted medieval rooms, including the former keep. There is also a 57-metre sequence of reception rooms dating from the 18th century. The contrast between the medieval rooms and the later reception rooms offers a clear insight into the château’s different building phases.

The Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Pitié de Verlieux is a 16th-century Romanesque-style chapel. It is open during the day all week; seasonal conditions may change. Check the latest access information before visiting. The chapel also hosts a parish festival every year on the first Sunday in September, featuring a Mass and a shared meal.

Peyraud’s infrastructure history is another notable theme: the Pont ferroviaire de Peyraud, also known as the viaduc de Saint-Rambert, was built in 1868 between Peyraud and Sablons to cross the Rhône. A pedestrian passage was later added to the bridge and inaugurated in April 1935.

Walking Trails and Rhône Scenery

The La chapelle de Verlieux walk passes through vineyards and a wooded valley on its way to the Chapelle de Verlieux. Along the route, it offers views of the Rhône, the Drôme and the Pilat. The Voie douce les berges du Rhône offers a different focus: it follows a natural, still-wild green corridor along the Rhône, bordered by vineyards and the Ardèche slopes. At one stop by the pillars of the Bac à traille, there is a picnic table, children’s play equipment and fishing platforms.

The two route descriptions therefore differ in their landscapes and destinations: the walk leads to the chapel through a valley and vineyards, while the Voie douce follows the Rhône corridor and brings together the listed facilities at its stop. You can choose a route based on the theme you prefer, without assuming a walking time or difficulty level.

Markets and Dates Throughout the Year

In early August, a village market featuring local produce and crafts takes place in the grounds of the Château de Peyraud. The programme includes a guided tour of the château. In late November or early December, Peyraud hosts a Christmas market with numerous exhibitors offering crafts and regional products. The two markets therefore take place at distinctly different times of year, and both focus on regional products and crafts.

The parish festival at the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Pitié de Verlieux takes place every year on the first Sunday in September and combines a Mass with a shared meal. Event dates and programmes may change. If you are planning your stay around a market or festival, check the latest information in advance.

A Local Legend

The Fontaine de Bonnefont is associated with a story about Saint Martin: according to legend, the spring is said to have emerged beneath his horse’s hooves. Two hoofprints seem to have been preserved in the rock.

Discover more destinations: Saint-André-Lachamp, Saint-Marcel-Dardeche, Lespéron, Sarras, Rochemaure, Saint-Lager-Bressac, Rochepaule, Peaugres

For the broader travel overview: Ardèche.