Château d'Hauterives

Chateau d'Hauterives is a medieval fortress built on a high rocky outcrop overlooking the Gorges du Tarn. The structure displays two substantial wall sections and a notably tall keep that dominates the surrounding landscape.

The fortress emerged as a significant structure during the 11th century under the viscounts of Arpajon, who had ties to the counts of Rodez. Over time, it became a key stronghold for controlling the gorges and the northern borderlands of the Anduze family holdings.

The fortress served as a symbol of control over the gorges, shaping how local communities moved through and used this narrow valley passage. Today, the ruins show how location determined power in medieval times.

Visiting requires a walk from Sainte-Enimie or La Malène along forest paths that lead up to the rocky outcrop. Entry to the ruins is free and the site is accessible without formal facilities or infrastructure.

Adjacent to the fortress stands Castelas, a restored medieval settlement that reveals how people organized their dwellings around the defensive stronghold. This small hamlet preserves the layout and character of a working medieval community.