Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux
10 km from Bollène via the D994, D26 and D71 roads.
Discover the village of Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux in the Drôme, near Pierrelatte
Welcome to Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, a charming town in the Drôme provençale! Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux offers you a wealth of Provencal history and charm. This ancient Roman town, once called Augusta Tricastinorum, welcomes you with its remarkable historic monuments, its Romanesque cathedral and its 12th-century remains. The medieval center of Saint-Paul invites you to stroll through its historic streets.
In the heart of Tricastin, discover an ideal place to explore the region, between lavender, truffles and local gastronomy. Notre-Dame Cathedral is the perfect starting point for your visit to this former episcopal city. Whether you've come for its heritage, its black truffles or simply to relax in the South of France, Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux is well worth a stop on your Provence tour. Let's discover its secrets together.
The pretty Notre Dame Cathedral, a marvel of history.
This large Provencal town, set in a plain of vineyards, is famous today for its imposing cathedral, a jewel of Romanesque art. Harmonious, sober and elegant, it stands in the middle of the historic center, whose quiet cobbled streets are a delight to stroll through. Its western facade features a magnificent portal.
The town center and the Truffle house.
As you stroll through the old town center, you'll be able to admire a Renaissance facade here and there, old store signs faded by time, sections of old stone walls and a covered fountain. And why not end your visit with a gourmet stop at the “Maison de la Truffe” (Truffle House)?
Tourism: but where are the 3 castles?
Don't look for the three castles, there isn't just one. The name is the result of a clumsy translation: the town was originally called Tricastinorum during the Roman Empire, later translated Tricastin and Trois Châteaux. Don't be too disappointed, though, as you can discover three magnificent châteaux within a stone's throw: Grignan, Suze-la-Rousse and La Garde-Adhémar.
The market
The Saint-Paul market takes place every Tuesday morning in the old center. It's a great opportunity to discover the village in a friendly atmosphere and stock up on local produce and crafts.
Where to eat in Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux?
After your stroll through the historic center, your appetite will no doubt be whetted. Here are a few ideas!
The restaurant La Chapelle welcomes you in a warm setting to enjoy refined cuisine featuring local produce. Their menu changes with the seasons, offering you the best of the region on every visit.
For truffle lovers, the Maison de la Truffe is a must. This unique venue offers tasty dishes featuring the Tricastin black truffle. The experience is truly gastronomic.
The Café des Vignerons offers a more relaxed but just as tasty atmosphere. It's the perfect place to discover local wines accompanied by platters of Drôme charcuterie and cheeses.
Our map of St-Paul-Trois-Châteaux
To find your way around Saint Paul Trois Châteaux, you can use our interactive map, which you'll find on this page. We've included the city's various points of interest as well as our accommodation recommendations so you can locate them before booking your stay in Saint Paul.
What to see
Cathedral (12th century historical monument, 13th century frescoes and mosaics, 17th century former high altar and organ case).
St-Just chapel.
Protohistoric rock engraving (solar symbol).
Many Roman remains.
Former Hôtel de Castellane (façade and chamber of justice, 17th-18th century).
Maison de la Truffe et du Tricastin.
Leisure activities
Equestrian centres,.
Hiking, mountain biking and cycle touring.
Climbing, nautical sports, quad, golf.
Tourist trails and Wine trail.
Cave-dwellers' village at Barry.
Hotels
Boutique hotel nestled in a park with mediterranean garden - Large pool - Spacious rooms and suites sumptuously furnished - Gourmet restaurant - Massage
Bed and breakfast
Located in the historic center of Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, Maison d'hôtes Payan Champier is a former 17th-century mansion with an outdoor swimming pool and garden views. All rooms are equipped with TV, private bathroom and free Wi-Fi access.
Holiday rentals
L'Attrape-Rêve offers air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool. Free private parking and Wi-Fi access are provided. This vacation home features one bedroom, a living room with a TV, a fully equipped kitchen and a bathroom. Towels and bed linen are provided. You can also relax in the garden.
Accomodations
Hotels.
Bed & Breakfasts.
Holiday rentals.
Your questions about the town
You've sent us lots of questions about this pretty town in Drôme provençale. Here are our answers to your most frequently asked questions. Don't hesitate to send us an e-mail if you have any further questions, and we'll do our best to answer them.
What are the inhabitants of Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux called?
The inhabitants of Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux are called "Tricastins" and "Tricastines". This derives from the town's ancient name "Tricastinorum" under the Roman Empire.
Why is the town of St-Paul-Trois-Châteaux called this?
When you go to Saint Paul Trois Châteaux, you logically expect to discover three castles, when in fact there's only one. The town is called "Trois Châteaux" (Three Castles) because it's a translation of the Latin "Tricastinorum", the ancient name of the town under the Roman Empire... in those days, there may have been three major constructions.
What to do today near Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux?
If you're looking for things to do in Saint Paul Trois Châteaux, start by visiting the old town center, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Maison de la Truffe. Then head for the many hiking trails that will take you to the surrounding villages. For wine lovers, the region's wine route is also very pleasant.
How to get to Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux?
Located in the Drôme department, in the south of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, this commune is easily accessible by various means of transport.
By car, there are several easy routes to take you there. The N7 passes close by, making it easy to reach from Lyon or Marseille. Consult a road map to plan your journey from your point of departure.
If you prefer public transport, the nearest station is in Pierrelatte, just 7 km away. Buses then run regularly to Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux.
What is the history of Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux?
Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux's history goes back to ancient times, when it was known as Augusta Tricastinorum, an important Roman city and the chief town of the Tricastins. Vestiges of this era can still be seen in the town. The current name comes from its first bishop, Saint Paul, and a deformation of the word “Tricastin” into “Trois Châteaux”. Christianity took root as early as the 4th century, transforming the town into an important religious center in the Middle Ages. The 12th-century Romanesque cathedral bears witness to the rich heritage developed by this episcopal city, which retained this status until the French Revolution. Today, the Musée d'Archéologie Tricastine (Tricastine Archaeology Museum) lets you discover the evolution of this town with its thousand-year-old past, which has preserved and enhanced its authenticity down the centuries.
NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES
La Garde-Adhémar (7km), Suze-la-Rousse (10km) and Pierrelatte (10km).