Perreux, medieval village of character

Published 5 / 02 / 2024 Reading time: 3 min

Located a few kilometers from Roanne, the village of Perreux perched on its clay promontory, dominates the green countryside of Roannais. Formerly a strategic stronghold of the lords of Beaujeu facing the counts of Forez, this medieval town keeps traces of its history through the ages. Perreux became in 2022, the 5^e Village of Character in Roannais and thus joins Ambierle, Le Crozet, Saint-Haon-le-Châtel and Saint-Jean-Saint-Maurice-sur-Loire on the list of remarkable destinations in the region. Heritage, environment, gastronomy, entertainment… Let yourself be surprised during your getaway by these precious places which conceal treasures.

It's quite a story

From the Middle Ages to the present day, Perreux has gone through the centuries between splendor, wars and changes... Today, the village is rich in this memory as evidenced by the buildings from different eras that you can discover during your stroll: the gate of the feudal enclosure, the tower of the old medieval castle, the 11th century castle chapel^e century, the Saint-Bonnet church and its two late Gothic chapels, the Renaissance half-timbered houses…

Historical nuggets

In the heart of the church, in the North Chapel, look up and admire the magnificent flamboyant Gothic vaults which will take you into the stars. On your way out, enjoy the remarkable view of the Romanesque chapel adjoining the town hall which is a former 19th century boarding school^e, built by nuns from the stones of the castle. You will also be able to see a very beautiful half-timbered mansion from the 18th century.^e.

Further on, you will walk alongside the old provost's building and its small arched brick tower which was twice as high at the time!

DID YOU KNOW ?

The village of Perreux is open to visitors in the Roannais Tourisme guided tour program. This ancient stronghold reveals its most closely guarded secrets by revealing its architectural and natural wealth to you.

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An exceptional natural environment

Perrous enjoys a privileged location, offering numerous panoramas of the surrounding countryside. You will have a beautiful 360° view of the Roanne plain and the Madeleine mountains by climbing the steps of the old keep. Take the opportunity to improvise a snack in the small shaded park at the foot of the tower. Hikes departing from the village will allow you to explore the surrounding paths.

Hikes in Perreux

In this green countryside, several hiking trails dot the village and its surroundings. Find for example:

• Passing through Chervé - 13 km
• The banks of the Loire - 14,5 km
• The Foothills of Beaujolais - 10 km