Château de la Bâtiaz
A 13th-century fortress offering stunning views, medieval charm, and seasonal events.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Immersive medieval atmosphere
Château de la Bâtiaz
Best Time
Immersive medieval atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 13th-century fortress offering stunning views, medieval charm, and seasonal events.
"Awesome view and informative plaques with medieval war machines in the front garden."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the castle and climbing the tower requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Check Seasonal Hours
The château is open seasonally, so verify dates before your visit. :calendar:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tower Climb
Castle Tower
Ascend narrow stairs for a rewarding panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Medieval War Machines
Castle Yard
Explore life-size replicas of catapults and other siege engines, bringing history to life.
L'Eveil de la Bâtiaz Festival
Castle Grounds
Experience a magical medieval faire with reenactments, fire shows, and fantasy characters.
+2Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Magic
+1Getting to the Castle
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the castle and climbing the tower requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Check Seasonal Hours
The château is open seasonally, so verify dates before your visit. :calendar:
Embrace the Events
Attending a festival like 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz' offers a unique, magical experience. :sparkles:
Try Local Beer
The tavern offers a local beer brewed specifically for the castle. :beer:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walk up to the castle and climbing the tower requires good footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Check Seasonal Hours
The château is open seasonally, so verify dates before your visit. :calendar:
Embrace the Events
Attending a festival like 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz' offers a unique, magical experience. :sparkles:
Try Local Beer
The tavern offers a local beer brewed specifically for the castle. :beer:
Parking Advice
Park in town and walk up; the road can be narrow for drivers. :car:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning scenery and the well-preserved medieval atmosphere of Château de la Bâtiaz. The tower climb offers breathtaking views, and the presence of historical war machines adds an engaging element. The friendly hospitality and the option to enjoy local refreshments enhance the overall experience.
"What a wonderful experience. Beautiful scenery and castle with free entry. Kids friendly. Neat and clean bathrooms. Stopped for a drink in the tavern after going up the tower. Would recommend their local beer made specifically for the castle. Lucas the host was so friendly, passionate and full of knowledge about the castle. We really enjoyed his hospitality. Would recommend this as a fun 2 hours activity."
Marko le Roux
"The tower can be reached via a paved walking path that takes about 10 minutes to climb. There are some life-size examples of medieval catapults in the yard. The tower (which was a dungeon) can also be climbed. The stairs are narrow so you have to be careful. There
Is an outdoor viewing platform on the top that provides a great panoramic view of the area.
If you drive there is a parking lot just off the main road called ‘Parking de la Batiaz’. Then the start of the walking path is from the old town nearby."
Milind Ghanekar
"Parking easy to find, 15 minutes walk uphill with clear signs, amazing location with great view and informative plaques and medieval war machines in the front garden, the yard is lovely, the restaurant is simple but friendly, the event room is atmospheric, the tower is well worth a climb: you'll get the real thing here: dirt, narrow stairs, lonely pigeons and an awesome view"
Stephanie Ilona Horvath
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to the 'Parking de la Batiaz' and then take a 10-15 minute uphill walk. Alternatively, park in the old town and follow clear signs. Be aware the road up can be narrow for drivers. +1
Yes, there is a parking lot called 'Parking de la Batiaz' just off the main road. However, many visitors prefer to park in town and enjoy the scenic walk up.
The walk from the parking or old town to the château is about 10-15 minutes uphill. It's a paved path with clear signage, offering pleasant views.
Yes, it's very feasible to visit without a car by parking in Martigny and walking up to the château.
The road can be narrow and challenging for unconfident drivers. Parking in town and walking is often recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the castle grounds is often free, especially outside of special event days. However, it's always best to check their official website or social media for the most current information.
The château is open seasonally. It's crucial to check their specific opening dates and hours online, as they can vary.
Yes, Château de la Bâtiaz hosts events like 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz,' a medieval festival featuring reenactments, fire shows, and fantasy elements.
Admission fees typically apply for special events like 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz.' Check the event organizers' websites for pricing details.
Access to the tower may require a ticket or be included with general admission, especially during event days. Confirm details upon arrival or in advance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the castle grounds, see medieval war machines, climb the tower for panoramic views, and enjoy the tavern. Special events offer reenactments and themed activities.
Absolutely! The tower climb, though involving narrow stairs, leads to an awesome view of the area and is considered a highlight by many visitors.
Informative plaques are often present, detailing the history of the château and its features.
Yes, it's considered kid-friendly, with attractions like medieval catapults and the open grounds providing space for children to explore.
Reviews mention that the bathrooms are neat and clean.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a simple but friendly tavern where you can stop for a drink or a meal, often featuring locally sourced products.
The tavern offers locally sourced products and is known for its friendly service. They also serve a local beer made specifically for the castle.
The château offers a magnificent setting, and dining at the tavern provides a lovely experience with great views.
Information on specific dietary options is not widely available, but the focus is on locally sourced products. It's best to inquire directly at the tavern.
The château has an atmospheric event room, suggesting it may be available for private bookings. Inquiries would need to be made directly with the château management.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic view from the tower, the medieval war machines in the yard, and the château's architecture itself offer excellent photo opportunities.
Yes, the festival is a fantastic time for photography, capturing the vibrant medieval atmosphere, costumes, and fire shows.
Generally, photography is allowed in outdoor areas and public spaces. Specific restrictions inside certain rooms or during events should be checked upon arrival.
Late afternoon light can be beautiful for capturing the château's exterior and the surrounding landscape. Event evenings offer dramatic fire show photo ops.
Drone usage is typically regulated and may require special permits. It's advisable to check local drone laws and château policies before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Attending during a special event like 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz' can be particularly magical for children, immersing them in a world of knights, fantasy characters, and exciting performances.
+1 The tavern provides a casual spot for a break, and the overall experience is engaging and educational without feeling like a history lesson. 🚗 Day-Trippers
Consider timing your visit to coincide with a special event for a more vibrant experience, or opt for a weekday morning for a more tranquil exploration. Parking in town and walking up is straightforward, making it accessible for those on a driving tour.
🏰 History Enthusiasts
The presence of medieval war machines and the authentic tower climb provide a hands-on connection to the château's historical context. Informative plaques enhance the understanding of its evolution and significance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz'
+1The festival is renowned for its spectacular fire shows, where performers showcase breathtaking displays of fire-breathing and dancing, creating a magical spectacle against the night sky.
+1 Beyond the visual feasts, the event often features artisans selling their crafts in stalls reminiscent of ancient grimoires, adding to the authentic medieval feel. It's an experience that appeals to all ages, offering a unique glimpse into historical reenactments and fantasy worlds. +1Planning to attend 'l'Eveil de la Bâtiaz' requires checking the specific dates well in advance, as it's a popular event. Visitors should be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak times and evenings. The festival offers a chance to engage with history and fantasy in a truly memorable setting, making it a highlight for many who visit the château.
+1Exploring the Château's Architecture and History
The château's historical significance is palpable as you explore its grounds. Visitors can encounter life-size replicas of medieval catapults and other war machines, offering a tangible connection to the past.
While the château is open seasonally, its historical narrative is continuous. The presence of informative plaques throughout the site helps visitors piece together the château's story, from its origins as a defensive stronghold to its current role as a cultural and event venue.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit