This calm Provençal riverside town has a 14th-century château with moated gardens, winding medieval streets, and a local market selling regional specialties.
In southeastern France's Drôme department, Montélimar welcomes visitors with its medieval Château des Adhémar, morning nougat-making demonstrations, and three weekly markets. Walk through streets of pastel-colored houses to reach Place du Marché's arcaded cafés, or drive 24 kilometers east to explore Le Poët-Laval's stone buildings and narrow lanes. In summer, purple lavender fields stretch across the surrounding countryside.
Making and Tasting Montélimar's Famous Nougat
Stop by the workshops along Rue Pierre Julien in the morning to watch confectioners prepare fresh batches of nougat, a soft white candy made from honey, egg whites, and almonds. The traditional recipe dates to the 17th century, when almond trees first grew in the region. Sample different varieties at the street's many nougat shops, from classic honey-almond to variations with pistachios or dried fruits.
Exploring the Medieval Château des Adhémar
Climb to the 12th-century castle for views across Montélimar from its hilltop position. The castle hosts rotating art exhibitions throughout the year, displaying works from artists like Miró and Chagall within its Romanesque walls. Walk along the fortified ramparts, visit the keep, and look through the chapel's arched windows. Children can join a castle treasure hunt or try twenty different medieval games in the grounds.
Walking Through the Old Town
Start at Place du Marché, where café tables spread beneath stone arcades. Walk down Rue Pierre Julien to see the 18th-century Porte Saint-Martin, the city's last remaining medieval gate. Continue to the 16th-century Maison de Diane de Poitiers with its Renaissance façade and the 18th-century Hôtel de la Baume. Near the main square stands the former residence of President Emile Loubet, who led France from 1899 to 1906.
Markets and Local Life
Shop at the morning markets on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays for regional specialties like Picodon goat cheese, honey, olives, and seasonal fruits. Les Halles de Montélimar houses permanent stalls selling fresh produce, fish, local wines, and bread. Take children to the public garden's small farm to see peacocks and pygmy goats, or let them play on the playground equipment.
Exploring Villages Around Montélimar
Drive to Puygiron to see panoramic views of the countryside and mountains from its hilltop position. In Le Poët-Laval, walk through narrow medieval streets between stone houses. During summer months, follow the roads between these villages to see fields of blooming lavender that color the landscape purple.
