Discoveries and Delights in Puy-guillaume, Puy-de-Dôme, Auvergne

From the medieval town of Châteldon, with its 12th-century castle and old half-timbered houses, you move on to smiling countryside, planted with fruit trees and flowering shrubs, before descending into the wilder gorges of the Vauziron.

Nestling at the foot of the mountains, Mariol is crossed by the Darot, a stream that flows from the heights to the east. Progress through the forest is pleasant, although sometimes steep. The more open spaces offer lovely views of the surrounding countryside. Crosses, wells and ovens can be seen along the way before descending from the plateau to Mariol, following the Darot.

Departure Vendègre. From Maringues, head towards Vichy. After 3.5 km, turn right onto the D55. Continue to Vendrègre, parking near the wash-house. Yellow markings

A pleasant stroll through meadows lined with oak and acacia trees in an open landscape offering beautiful views. Particularly noteworthy are the restored Néron adobe farmhouses and the old railway heritage of the Vichy-Darsac line.

Along the banks of the Allier and through cereal fields, you'll find wide, easy paths. From the perched village of Crevant-Laveine, you overlook the surrounding Limagne countryside, dotted with pigeon lofts, a typical local heritage.

Start at Rue des Gascons - Montgacon. From Aigueperse, follow Thuret and Maringues on the D12, then Montgacon on the D55. Start near the municipal building. Yellow markings

Dovecote, washhouse, shoeing loom... The Butte de Montgacon is one of many mottes in the region. Known since 1056, the Butte de Montgacon is built on the ruins of a castle that was demolished in 1633.

Departure from Vensat. From Maringues, follow signs for Vichy. 3.5 km further on, turn right onto the D55. Parking on the Vensat square. Blue markings

Traced around Thiers, on the edge of Grande Limagne and the Bois Noirs massif, this route passes through hamlets of adobe houses and orchards. It is punctuated by lovely views of châteaux, the Comté and the mountains.

Covering an area of 88 hectares, this site is essentially forested, with thin oak coppice and clearings on skeletal soils. The rich fauna is made up of typical forest breeding species.

Located in the emblematic Vallée des Usines site in Thiers, Le Creux de l'Enfer is spread over two exceptional industrial buildings above the Durolle River. For more than 30 years, the art center has showcased the best of both national and international contemporary art and has invited artists to create works through immersive residencies, collaborating with local stakeholders. Through an annual program of solo and group exhibitions, a series of talks and conferences closely tied to these exhibitions, as well as outreach initiatives and special public events, the art center also aims to create the most favorable conditions for bringing art and the public together. A case in point is “Samedis d’enfer,” scheduled during each exhibition, which brings together a multitude of artistic offerings, including workshops for children, guided exhibition tours, and concerts, performances, and other public events. Drawing on a wide range of influences—spanning industry and nature, action and thought—Le Creux de l’Enfer embodies a project that is as experimental as it is accessible, as demanding as it is generous, and as cutting-edge as it is welcoming. A contemporary art center housed in the former Creux de l’Enfer cutlery factory—which closed permanently in 1956—it traces its origins to the cultural decentralization policy launched under the leadership of Jack Lang in 1985. It opened in 1988, three years after the National Symposium on Monumental Metal Sculpture, organized by the municipality of Thiers, several of whose works remain scattered throughout the city and its surroundings. Le Creux de l’Enfer is one of fifty French contemporary art centers accredited by the Ministry of Culture, modeled after the German “Kunsthallen”—spaces in which artists are deeply involved: Le Creux de l’enfer devotes its entire space to a program of temporary exhibitions (renewed twice a year) and events, developed in collaboration with guest artists. Since October 2019, it has held the designation “contemporary art center of national interest,” making it the first contemporary art center in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to receive this designation. At the helm of this “vessel” on the Durolle River is Sophie Auger-Grappin, who, after more than 20 years in the Île-de-France region, chose to leave Paris and an art center in the Yvelines for Thiers, bringing with her artistic projects of national scope for this “other capital”—the capital of cutlery. Since 2025, the Creux de l’Enfer has been renovated, expanded, and has also extended its artistic and cultural program to the May factory, connected to the Creux de l’Enfer factory by a covered walkway. Thanks to this work, a brand-new visitor route has been created, featuring new spaces open to the public (a lower hall right next to the river, an observation deck with an unmissable view of the valley, a small workshop where visitors can enjoy activities and hands-on sessions...) and an exhibition space of nearly 1,000 m². The project was managed by the Fabre/Speller architectural firm—which had previously overseen the transformation of the Creux de l’Enfer in 1988—and was further enriched by the collaboration with architect-engineer Alexandre Bagros-Murat and designer Olivier Vadrot for the furniture and interior design.

Today, the complex offers 14 clay courts, 4 of which are covered, in a privileged setting close to Vichy town center, near the golf course and along the redeveloped banks of the lake.

Do you like to travel through time and history? Discover Vichy at the pace of Françoise's prestige car. You'll be delighted by the different options and themes on offer. Do you like to travel through time and history? Discover Vichy to the rhythm of the "Rive d'Allier" horse-drawn carriages, on a refined and elegant tour guided by Françoise, a professional coachman and former student of the Ecole du Louvre in Paris. The 8-seater prestige carriage - which can be privatized - will offer you comfort and an intimate atmosphere. The tours on offer will enable you to discover the Queen of the Spa Towns in a personalized way, with the option of exploring in greater depth the themes of Vichy's spa industry, the Second Empire or the 1940/1944 period. Tours can last 35 minutes or one hour. Commentaries are available in French, English and, by prior arrangement, Spanish or German. Les Calèches "Rive d'Allier" also makes its other carriages available for groups (by reservation), weddings, or any other event (village festivals, Christmas markets, company or family celebrations...). Les Calèches "Rive d'Allier" has been awarded the "Qualité France Energie Animale" label for its horse-drawn services (respect for regulations and animal welfare). Depending on climatic conditions (heatwaves, etc.), services may be subject to modifications, in order to respect animal welfare.

Close to Vichy, this 18-hole, PAR 72 (5,893 m) course lies in the heart of a forest of hundred-year-old oaks, and has a teaching structure suitable for all. Slightly undulating, enhanced by water features, the course will appeal to the most demanding golfers. Club House (bar; 7/7 lunchtime restaurant).

The Club Nautique de Vichy is an association under the French law of 1901, and comprises three sections: Sailing, Water Skiing and Wakeboarding and Stand Up Paddle. Three sections: - Introductory and advanced sailing from age 4, as well as free practice (rental). - Water skiing and classic wakeboarding, slalom and baby skiing from age 4, - Stand-up paddle, for free practice, supervised practice or as a walk from age 11. Situated on a 100-hectare lake in the heart of the town, the water sports center also offers towed buoys. All activities are supervised by qualified, registered staff. Approved by the French Ministry of Education and the Allier Departmental Directorate for Social Cohesion and Population Protection.

The team at the lake offers water sports activities. Stand-up paddle (we do not give lessons). We provide all equipment and safety instructions.

15th-century renovated barn, authentic, which combines modern and old properties. It is surrounded by a flowered garden, with a viexwon the rolling countryside and a lake for fishing.

If you want to try out a fun, easy-to-access sport, go for it!

In the heart of Cervières, come visit a unique museum in France : the Museum-workshop of goldwork embroidery. You will discover the history and the technique of the embroiderers called "Grenadières" specific to the Haut-Forez. The goldwork embroidery has existed in the Haut-Forez territory since the 19th century. Women worked mainly for military industry and made the grenade of policemen and firemen, so they took the name of "grenadières". The industry peaked in the 50's. The embroiderers worked on embroideries for military uniform as well as civil suits or the famous academician suit. In the museum, you can admire examples of those réalisations and discover the technique of goldwork embroidery and the transmission of this skill nowadays known as an artistic profession. Each visit finishes with a show that permits to you to talk with the embroiderer and to understand its technique. You can also try by yourself!!

Come and relax in this beautiful wooden chalet with a 35 m2 terrace with jacuzzi and an incredible view of the surrounding countryside. Situated at less than 4km from the motorway exit ‘’Les Salles’’ (42), between the historic village of Cervierres and the village of Noiretable with its Casino game, lac and all shops near by The chalet is made using only the local wood and built by an artisan from the area who uses old methods with a respect for modern architecture The chalet is build on poles which provide an amazing view. There is 20m2 inside with all the necessary comfort, fully equipped kitchen, also made by a local manufacture and a bathroom with a shower and toilets with a modern design. You will also find a very comfortable sofa bed which you can fold during the day to optimise the space A large 3m door window will allow you to wake up in front of this incredible view. Also giving access to a 35m2 terrace which was thought to maximise your own comfort in the country side The 24 jet SPA is placed in the center, there is 2 laying space and 1 seat. Still looking at the view you will be able to get a relaxing water or air massage hoping to maybe spot some wild animal passing through the land across On one side of the terrace you will find and outdoor living area where you can relax, read a book or simply listen the birds singing. On the other side you will find a dinning space where you can enjoy your breakfast and try the local specialities while looking at the forest in this beautiful part of France This Chalet is suitable for 2 adult only

Some fifteen kilometers downstream from the Bec de Dore ENS, the Allier valley from Joze to Maringues is one of the most interesting areas of the Puy-de-Dôme in terms of river dynamics and natural environments. This is one of the most interesting sectors of the Puy-de-Dôme department, where river dynamics and interesting natural environments still exist, but it is also one of the most complex to manage due to the presence of certain micro-parcel developments and the multiplicity of stakeholders. The Allier axis is a corridor of refuge for remarkable flora and fauna in the face of the vast expanses of cultivated land along its banks. An area of unprecedented richness, populated by hundreds of species of saproxilophagous insects (which feed on dead wood), which in turn feast on fish and birds such as the kingfisher, while a beautiful heron waddles along the riverbank. The vegetation is not to be outdone, and the place remains truly enchanting, with a veritable symphony of colors. And as a bonus, volcanoes can be seen on the horizon. The main outstanding natural habitats are : - natural eutrophic lakes (duckweed communities), - annual vegetation of exposed riverbanks (pioneer communities of wet mudflats), - pioneer lawns on rock domes (sedum lawn), - a residual alluvial forest (salix abla willow grove), - and a mixed forest of large rivers (Quercus robur alluvial oak grove). The main species of note are : - Purple loosestrife, Micheli nutsedge, smooth elm, - Atlantic salmon, pike, shad, sea lamprey, - European otter, European beaver - European beaver, great murin, eared vespertilion, - kingfisher, black-crowned night heron, bank swallows, common tern, - agrion mignon, dwarf agrion, marsh copper... The site, and more broadly the Allier axis, is considered a "refuge" or "green and blue corridor" through which remarkable flora and fauna pass.

Located between Clermont-Ferrand and Vichy, the Domaine Royal de Randan was created in 1821 by Louis-Philippe d'Orléans, future King of France, and his sister Adélaïde. A mecca for 19th-century Romanticism and modernity. In 1821, Louis-Philippe d'Orléans and his sister Adélaïde acquired the former duchy of Randan and set about restoring it as a holiday resort. From then on, the estate's destiny was linked to that of the French royal family. From 1822 to 1847, architect Pierre François Léonard Fontaine oversaw the development of the estate, enlarging the château, building outbuildings and creating a vast landscaped park. The work carried out reflects the innovations of the first half of the 19th century. After the fall of the July monarchy (1848) and the exile of the d'Orléans family, the Domaine de Randan fell into a deep slumber. It was brought back to life by Isabelle d'Orléans, Countess of Paris (1848-1919). Fascinated by "her beloved Randan", she renovated it and all the comforts of the Belle Époque. On her death, her son Ferdinand d'Orléans made it his principal residence. In the château, he created a hunting museum featuring 450 animals hunted on his travels around the world and naturalized by the greatest taxidermist of his time, Rowland Ward. In 1925, a fire at the château marked the decline of the estate, which closed its gates and fell into oblivion. In 1999, the site was saved from dismantling thanks to the mobilization of local authorities and the French State, which acquired the estate and its collections. In 2003, the Regional Council became the sole owner of the site, opening it to the public and continuing the restoration of this important heritage site, listed as a Historic Monument and awarded the "Remarkable Garden" label. VISITS Two guided tours included with admission: Discovery of the estate: history, remains of the château, orangery, greenhouses, chapel, kitchens. Duration: 1 hr. Discovery of the "Ferdinand's Animals" exhibition: Exceptional collection of naturalized animals, unique in Europe, presented in dioramas. Duration: 45 minutes. Self-guided tour: Enjoy the park for a stroll. Picnics possible during opening hours. Dogs on leash permitted, outdoors only.

The church, lit up at night, is located in the heart of the medieval quarter in the upper town. The Romanesque collegiate church of Saint Genès was built in memory of a young martyr from the 3rd century. The story of his burial site is told by Grégoire de Tour. The church was rebuilt by Guy II, Lord of Thiers, in 1016. Its 102 m² dome is the largest in Auvergne. The apse features a mural of Christ in Majesty. The beautifully crafted monumental organ dates from 1853. The stalls are sculpted with evocative misericords.

The museum retraces the 600-year history of knife-making heritage. Workshops, knife-making demonstration, sound and light, shop. At the Cutlery Museum in Thiers, visitors can explore six centuries of heritage with global influence. The rich collection features works from French and international cutlery centers, dating from the 16th century to the present day. It’s an invitation to discover the evolution of the knife, the elegance of tableware, and the modernization of designs and manufacturing techniques. It’s also a unique opportunity to marvel at fine cutlery pieces crafted entirely from mother-of-pearl, ivory, and gold. In the museum’s workshops, master cutlers—ambassadors of traditional craftsmanship—demonstrate the key stages of knife-making. Right before your eyes, they craft the high-end knives and artistic knives sold in the museum shop. Please note that Rue de la Coutellerie, located between the two sections of the museum, is currently closed. Signage has been put in place to guide you through a two-part tour of the Cutlery Museum! A truly unique museum experience!

Remains of a Benedictine abbey founded around the year 1000, the buildings have seen many vicissitudes. A flood on the Durolle destroyed the conventional buildings in 1701. However, the logis is a fine fortified building with two towers. Fortified dwelling dating from the 11th - 18th centuries. Abbey "daughter of Cluny". Beautiful 18th-century decor and furnishings. Classical walled garden. Member of the federation of Cluniac sites and the historic route of Auvergne castles.

The Romanesque church of Saint Symphorien du Moûtier, once part of the Cluny order, has stood for over a thousand years. It has been restored and illuminated at night. Its capitals, its polychromy of red, yellow and gray ochres, its 15th-century Christ on the Cross and the painting of Louis XIII's vow are remarkable. Facing the Orangerie garden and the Logis abbatial, it is a gateway to the Vallée des usines tourist trail. Open all year round.

The walking routes along the banks of the Durolle river lead you to the old mills. Discover the workers’ conditions through the remains of the workshops called “rouets” (spinning wheels), where the grinders shaped knife blades. The footpaths along the banks of the Durolle take you to the old mills. In these workshops, known as rouets, grinders used sandstone millstones to shape knife blades. In the last working rouet, "chez Lyonnet", come and watch the wheel turn, hear the belts click and discover the working conditions of the grinders. Average length of visit: 45 min. guided tour + 30 min. self-guided tour. For a comfortable visit, walking shoes are strongly recommended.

The May factory is a former knife making factory. A dedicated space for cooperatives ensuring sustainable development of the Factory Valley, it opens its doors to the public for exhibitions, shows and other cultural events. A dedicated space for cooperatives ensuring sustainable development of the Valley des Usines, it opens its doors to the public for exhibitions, shows and other cultural events.

Bar-restaurant

A cosy bar-restaurant where homemade food is king, right down to the charcuterie. Chef Benoît trained as a pork butcher and caterer.

Cuisine from near and far. Customised meals available on request. Grocery shop.

Artisanal pizzas. This pizzeria offers diverse pizzas, fresh pasta, salads, desserts and ice creams. On site or to take away.

Located at an altitude of 1100m, the restaurant of Notre Dame de l'Hermitage welcomes you to a peaceful and mystical place. After enjoying a cuisine with Malagasy origins, you can enjoy the surroundings which offer panoramas and walks.

In a friendly setting, the inn offers you a traditional cuisine based on local products and mainly organic, pizza as well as a weekday menu. All dishes can be taken away.

By historical N7. On the premises and to take away.

Situated near Lapalisse town center, on the Road N7. Frindeliness and love of good food garanteed ! Tarditional and refined cooking in a vintage atmosphere.

Auberge specialised in festive weekends, weddings, birthdays up to 110 covers. Beautiful covered terrace for aperitifs and large wooded park for receptions.

Situated on a rest area in the nice, warm and relaxing surroudings of a landscape garden and a pond.

15th-century renovated barn, authentic, which combines modern and old properties. It is surrounded by a flowered garden, with a viexwon the rolling countryside and a lake for fishing.

Large holiday house (130m²) in the bourbonnaise countryside, situated near a farm, near a large pond which offers the possibility of fishing, and near hiking pathes, le Pal and historic sites

Great and quiet holiday house with a pleasant view.

Charming stone house in a garden with trees, located in the mountains (elevation 900 metres) above a historic village.

Come and relax in this beautiful wooden chalet with a 35 m2 terrace with jacuzzi and an incredible view of the surrounding countryside. Situated at less than 4km from the motorway exit ‘’Les Salles’’ (42), between the historic village of Cervierres and the village of Noiretable with its Casino game, lac and all shops near by The chalet is made using only the local wood and built by an artisan from the area who uses old methods with a respect for modern architecture The chalet is build on poles which provide an amazing view. There is 20m2 inside with all the necessary comfort, fully equipped kitchen, also made by a local manufacture and a bathroom with a shower and toilets with a modern design. You will also find a very comfortable sofa bed which you can fold during the day to optimise the space A large 3m door window will allow you to wake up in front of this incredible view. Also giving access to a 35m2 terrace which was thought to maximise your own comfort in the country side The 24 jet SPA is placed in the center, there is 2 laying space and 1 seat. Still looking at the view you will be able to get a relaxing water or air massage hoping to maybe spot some wild animal passing through the land across On one side of the terrace you will find and outdoor living area where you can relax, read a book or simply listen the birds singing. On the other side you will find a dinning space where you can enjoy your breakfast and try the local specialities while looking at the forest in this beautiful part of France This Chalet is suitable for 2 adult only

Magali offers you a serenity break in this former dairy, which she has put her heart into renovating. It guest room is located in a preserved environment just a stone's throw from the historic village of Cervières.

Notre Dame de l'Hermitage seems to stay up the canton. Its privileged position offers a rare panorama, of numerous paths and invite you to practice hiking. . Collective accommodation at an altitude of 1110 m, a place of conviviality and serenity.

The gîte features a lounge and living room with fitted kitchen. Separate entrance. Patio and access to the garden, not overlooked. Parking space outside the gîte.

18th-century arge house with its centenarian trees park. Sunbathing, nap in the shade of a horse chestnut, soothed by song of the birds... Relaxation and serenity garanteed.

Settled in a centenarian trees park of a 18th-century large house. Sunbathing, nap in the shade of a horse chestnut, soothed by song of the birds... Relaxation and serenity garanteed.