baume's castle
#Visit
The Little Versailles of Gévaudan
A historical gem perched in the heart of the Massif Central
At an altitude of 1,200 meters, the Château de La Baume dominates the Gévaudan landscape. A listed historical monument, it is the only large classical château in Lozère. Formerly the seat of the Peyre barony, it was rebuilt in 1632 after the Wars of Religion, then enlarged between 1690 and 1715 to evoke the grandeur of Versailles. A heritage treasure not to be missed during a visit to the Aubrac region.
A bit of history
Born in 1630, in the heart of the Wars of Religion, the Château de La Baume was built by Antoine de Grolée on the ruins of an old medieval fortress. Despite his debts and family conflicts, he laid the foundations of a solid and imposing castle, hewn from the granite of the Gévaudan region.
The estate’s golden age arrived in 1710, under the impetus of his son César, an influential and ambitious figure. Lieutenant General of the King’s armies for Languedoc, he frequented the court of Versailles, where his niece became the famous Duchess of Fontanges, a favorite of Louis XIV. César then transformed La Baume into an elegant residence, blending Italian influences with Versailles refinement.
Today, La Baume remains a living château. Inhabited year-round by the de Las Cases family, heirs since 1850, it preserves its heritage while opening part of the residence to visitors through guided tours. Here, history, nobility and legends – like that of the Beast of Gévaudan – continue to resonate in the stones.
Visit of the Baume's castle
Immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere, where the austere architecture of 17th-century Gévaudan blends with 18th-century elegance, inspired by Italian artists and the grand manufactories of Versailles.
Behind its imposing granite walls, the interior is revealed in all its sumptuousness: wood paneling, tapestries, paintings… Each room tells a story and illustrates the refinement that has earned the château its evocative nickname: the “Little Versailles of Gévaudan.”
Practical information
From April to October:
Open Wednesday to Monday. Departures at fixed times: 2:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m.
In July and August:
Open daily. Departures at fixed times: 10:15 a.m., 11:15 a.m., 2:15 p.m., 3:15 p.m., 4:15 p.m., 5:15 p.m.
Price :
- Adult : 10€
- Child from 6 to 12 years old : 8€ (free -6years old)
- Groupes : 9€ (tarif réduit à partir de 10 personnes)
Contact :
- La Baume 48100 Prinsuéjols
- www.chateaudelabaume.org
- 04 66 32 51 59
- chateaudelabaume@gmail.com