Saint-Bonnet-le-Château, Medieval commune in Loire department, France
Saint-Bonnet-le-Château is a medieval settlement in the Loire region that sits across rolling hills between roughly 780 and 950 meters in elevation. The place features narrow streets lined with stone buildings in its center, arranged in a traditional layout with the church as a focal point.
The area was known in early medieval times as Castrum Vari and later gained religious importance when relics of Saint Bonnet passed through the location. This religious connection shaped how the settlement developed and became established as an important stopping point.
The collegiate church here displays religious artworks and furnishings from different periods that visitors can discover while walking through. The building style and how local people use this space have shaped the character of the place for a very long time.
The place is best explored on foot, with narrow streets requiring you to walk to see everything properly. Since the location sits on hills, some paths involve stairs or steep sections, so take your time and wear comfortable shoes.
Two small factories here produce bocce balls, a French ball game popular with locals and visitors. This manufacturing tradition gives the settlement an unexpected modern side for such an old place.
Location: canton of Saint-Bonnet-le-Château
Location: Loire
Location: arrondissement of Montbrison
Location: Loire Forez Agglomération
Industry: administration publique générale
Shares border with: Luriecq, Saint-Nizier-de-Fornas, La Tourette
Address: 23 avenue Paul-Doumer, 42380 Saint-Bonnet-le-Château
Phone: +33477505240
Email: mairie@saintbonnetlechateau.fr
Website: http://st-bonnet-le-chateau.fr
GPS coordinates: 45.42389,4.06611
Latest update: December 6, 2025 16:02
Between plains, dormant volcanoes, and deep forests, the Loire reveals a wealth of cultural heritage. Here, medieval castles stand alongside the wild landscapes of gorges and the Pilat massif, abbeys weave through hills and valleys, and fortified villages still carry the scent of the Middle Ages. From Saint-Étienne to Roanne, you pass cobbled streets, castles perched on heights, hidden waterfalls, and buildings designed by Le Corbusier. Each turn tells a chapter of history, an ancient stone, a landscape brought to life by the wind. The Loire is a land of contrasts, both industrial and poetic, proud of its legacy. These are the places not to miss to explore its soul, between built heritage and preserved nature.
Collégiale de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château
113 m
Dolmen de Roche-Cubertelle
3.6 km
Montarcher
6.8 km
Église de l'Assomption-de-la-Vierge
6.7 km
Église de Rozier-Côtes-d'Aurec
6.6 km
Église de la Nativité-de-Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Saint-Jean-Soleymieux
9.1 km
Église Saint-Irénée de Luriecq
3.3 km
Église de l'Immaculée-Conception de Leignec
6.7 km
Église Saint-Hilaire de Saint-Hilaire-Cusson-la-Valmitte
6.5 km
Église Saint-Nizier de Saint-Nizier-de-Fornas
2.5 km
Église Saint Pierre, Marols
6.3 km
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste de Périgneux
7.3 km
Église de la Nativité-de-Notre-Dame de La Chapelle-en-Lafaye
7.4 km
Église Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens d'Estivareilles
4.5 km
Croix des Argnats, Marols
6.3 km
Église Notre-Dame d'Aboën
5.2 km
Porte de ville
6.3 km
Église Saint-Jean-Baptiste d'Apinac
7.4 km
Chapelle saint Roch, Marols
6.3 km
City walls of Montarcher
6.7 km
Couvent des ursulines de Saint-Bonnet-le-Château
124 m
Maison - 24 rue Grand'Rue - Saint-Bonnet-le-Château
268 m
Croix de chemin à Marols
6.3 km
Musée international de la boule de pétanque
320 m
Château de Chenereilles
6.9 km
Cross at the cemetery of Marols
6.4 km
Croix de saint Pierre, Marols
6.3 km
Croix de Mission, Marols
6.3 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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