Val Castle (France)

This fairytale castle dates from the 15th century and is located in the region 'Parc des Volcans' Auvergne in south-central France, next to (and surrounded by, because it is on an island) an attractive lake. But the castle stood on a hill, with stunning views of the valley below! E 'was between 1942 and 1952 that the Bort les Orgues dam was built, and the water filled the valley.

At that time, the castle was owned by the French electricity board, and had suffered many years of neglect. At the time the dam was completed the local municipality of Bort les Orgues acquired the castle. Now it has been restored and gained a new lease on life as a popular tourist attraction in the region.

Reached by a footbridge, the castle is immediately recognizable by its six towers, each with a different design. There is also a 15th century chapel on the island, the Chapel of San Biagio.

Inside the castle, the large rooms of the lower floor are decorated in rich 19th-century style, while the upper floor is reserved for art exhibitions - Chateau de Val is well known for contemporary art exhibitions that They held there every summer.

It is also possible to climb to the roof, for a beautiful view across the lake.