Discover the Château de Virieu, just 22km from our campsite in Savoie!
Stronghold of the Virieu family from its origins as nowadays, the Val-de-Virieu castle was built in the year 1000. Initially a simple mound, the building became a fortified castle attached to the Virieu family until the 13th century. It will then pass into the hands of several families through alliances and sales. It was not until the 19th century that the castle returned to the Virieu family. It will remain uninhabited for 50 years. Substantial restoration work will then be carried out from 1924 to 1928. Today, descendants of the Virieu family live there. The history of the castle is also marked by recent episodes: during the Second World War, it secretly housed more than 40 tonnes of ammunition for the French resistance.
A guided tour of approximately one hour will lead you to the discovery of the architectural treasures of the site, from the imposing studded door to the warm chapel, passing by the main courtyard and the keep, the canons of Louis XIII, the old kitchens or the king's bedroom. The dungeon shelters a place of memory dedicated to the resistance. Many activities are offered at the castle. Fun visits are for example organized for children from 3 to 10 years old, and are followed by a friendly snack. One Sunday a month, historical events allow visitors to discover the castle in a new way: fencing shows, sword fighting demonstrations, period games, medieval cooking workshops await visitors from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Other events are regularly organized on the castle site, such as a murder party during which children and adults can investigate. The French gardens of the Château de Virieu are finally a great place to stroll which you can enjoy after your visit.
The Château de Virieu is open to the public from early April to early November. During this period, the chateau opens from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and public holidays, as well as every day except Monday during the months of July and August. The schedules for guided tours are fixed: the castle guides are waiting for you at 2.30 p.m., 3.30 p.m., 4.30 p.m. and 5.30 p.m. The full price entry price is 8 euros. The reduced rate of 6 euros applies to large families, students, the unemployed, and children aged 7 to 16. Admission is free for children under the age of 6. Group and family rates are also available. The enchanted tours route is for children only. The price per participant is 6 euros. Parents are all free to walk in the beautiful park during the entertainment.