Grignan, Provence

Charming village in the Drome, with a wonderful medieval castle

featured in Towns & villages Updated 30 June 2023

Grignan is a small village that overlooks the plains of the Rhône valley, just over the border of northern Provence into the Drome region. It's a charming little place but most visitors come here to see its castle.

Farming plays a major role in local life, and vineyards cover much of the land in the area. A number of the vineyards are open to the public - check at the tourist office.

Truffles are also big business here. When some of the vines were destroyed by disease in the 19th century, oak trees took their place and are now a source for these black tubers - the countryside around Grignan accounts for 70% of France's truffle production.

Another crop you will see whilst touring the area is lavender - rows and rows of this fragrant purple plant thrive in the dry climate.

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The village of Grignan grew up in the shadows of the dominant medieval castle, Château de Grignan. A fortress has been located on this site since the 11th century and it was transformed into a more palatial dwelling during the Renaissance. It became renowned in France when in the 17th century, the Marquise de Sevigne wrote in her letters about the brilliance of its court and the surroundings. A garden was created in her memory in 1996 - it sits below the castle off the road Cours Adhémar.

Other sights to see in Grignan include the collegiate church of Saint Sauveur, which dates from the 16th century, La Maison du Bailli (Bailiff's House), a 13th century court house and now a municipal building, and numerous fountains and the lavoir (wash house) in the market place. The market is held in Tuesday mornings.

The village is also proud of its rose gardens, with over 150 varieties on display throughout the village - best enjoyed from late April to June. There are some arts and crafts shops in the village where you can pick up souvenirs or something a bit more special. Local craftsmen include wrought ironmongers, jewellery makers, pottery; there are also a few art galleries, some of whom offer painting classes.

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There are a number of activities to enjoy in the surrounding area, from horse riding, rock climbing, tree top adventures, paragliding and hiking. A range of long and short walks are available and you can buy flyers and maps (only a small fee) from the tourist office. An outdoor swimming pool is open during July and August.

Another popular attraction in the area is the Crocodile Farm in Pierrelatte (back west towards the A7) which has an 8,000m² greenhouse filled with 400 crocodiles, some giant tortoises and lush vegetation.

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