Perched atop a crown of volcanic stone 5km northwest of Le Puy is a late-11th-century castle affording spectacular views. The focal point is a 32m-high rectangular keep, but there's plenty to explore: a ruined chapel, deep wells, prison cells and defensive walls dotted with lookout towers. Wander at leisure or check the online schedule for summer guided tours.
The fortress was built by the powerful Polignac family, who once controlled access to the city from the north, and to whom it has belonged for a millennium.
Infrequent local buses connect northern Le Puy with Polignac; consult www.tudip.fr for schedules.
