La Tour De Crest
The Crest Tower
A 900-year journey through medieval history
The Tour de Crest is one of the most emblematic monuments in the Drôme valley, and one of the tallest medieval keeps still standing in France, reaching 52 meters in height.
Perched high above the town of Crest, this majestic tower was built as early as the XIIᵉ century as the keep of a fortified castle, before becoming a state prison from the XVIIᵉ to the XIXᵉ century.
Today listed as a Historic Monument, it invites visitors to step back nearly 900 years of history, from medieval architecture to rooms that trace prison life and daily life in the Middle Ages.
Visit & experiences
Today, the Tour de Crest offers several ways to discover it:
- Guided tours – to understand the evolution of the site, medieval life and prison history.
- Themed exhibitions – medieval history, fortification methods, period objects.
- Workshops and activities – participatory experiences for young and old (medieval, workshops, etc.).
- Abseiling – for thrill-seekers, an exceptional activity along the façade.
Panoramas, views & souvenirs
From the top of the tower, the view is nothing short of spectacular:
the Drôme valley stretches out below, the Forêt de Saoûthe Vercors, the relief of the Ardèche and the surrounding fields make up a unique 360° landscape.
It’s the perfect place to photograph the region, meditate on its history or simply admire the southern light that caresses its golden stones at sunset.
Why we recommend it to Gervanne Camping
At Gervanne Camping, we like to recommend the Tour de Crest because it combines culture, history and panorama, without being elitist.
It’s a family-friendly visit, enriching for children and adults alike, and easy to integrate into a day combining heritage and outdoor activities.
La Tour De Crest website: https: //www.tourdecrest.fr/visite/
