Murol is located north-west of Issoire and south of Clermont-Ferrand in the Puy-de-Dome department of the Auvergne at an altitude of over 800 metres.
Exploring Murol
The village stands in a picturesque setting at the bottom of a steep wooded slope, while the Chateau de Murol sits high above the town, on one of the volcanic domes typical of the region. It is for the castle that most visitors come to Murol.
Chateau de Murol
The Chateau de Murol is a sturdy fortress that dates from the 12th century, with substantial reinforcements added two centuries later, at which time the living accommodation was also improved to make it more comfortable.
A substantial part of the defensive walls are still in place around the base of the castle, and these surround a massive donjon on a rocky spur. You can also se an ensemble of traditional Auvergne houses around a courtyard and there are also smaller details to be seen, such as the arcades in the upper courtyard and the lintel above the entrance.
The views over the surrounding area are as impressive as the chateau itself: you can walk around the ramparts of the castle for the best views.
During the summer months the Chateau de Murol is promoted as an important tourist destination, with guided tours, exhibitions and re-enactments of medieval life, and sound and music shows.
Other Murol activities
Murol and the surrounding area has also long attracted the artistic community, including such renowned painters as Millet and Rousseau, and the Museum of Murol features many paintings by artists inspired by the surrounding landscapes.
Murol organises various events each year (especially on the 14th July each year) commemorating its long history and life in medieval period - see Murol Tourist Office (Rue de Jassaguet) when you visit for current information and details.
To visit near Murol
The nearby Lac Chambon is a good swimming lake in beautiful surroundings near Murol and a fine place to cool off after your visit. You can also visit the Chaudefour Valley, a beautiful valley that is also a designated nature reserve.
A short distance east of the town at Saint-Nectaire you can see one of the best examples of roman style churches in the Auvergne.
See more castles in France. You can find more travel ideas in the Puy-de-Dome guide and the Auvergne guide.
Arrange a visit to Murol
Hotels in Murol
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Map of Murol and places nearby
Visit near Murol with France This Way reviews
Saint-Nectaire
It is the impressive roman architecture of the Church of St-Nectaire-le-Haut that attracts visitors to Saint-Nectaire
Saint-Nectaire guide
Mont-Dore
Mont-Dore is well placed to explore the scenic splendours of the area such as the Vallee de Chaudefour, and is also a small ski resort
Mont-Dore guide
Saint-Floret
The tiny village of Saint-Floret with its ruined castle and frescoes is now listed among the 'most beautiful in France'
Saint-Floret guide
Orcival
Orcival is home to one of the most important roman style churches in Auvergne and has several natural scenic highlights nearby
Orcival guide
Saint-Saturnin
With ancient narrow streets, an imposing church and its position on the side of a steep valley Saint-Saturnin is among our favourite Auvergne villages
Saint-Saturnin guide
La Bourboule
La Bourboule is one of the most impressive of the belle-epoque spa towns in France
La Bourboule guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Puy-de-Dome
The French version of this page is at Murol (Francais)