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

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.

The Via Allier, a cycle route linking the Bec d'Allier to the Mediterranean coast, runs for 27km along the river between Billy and Saint-Yorre, mixing nature and urban areas. Three local loops have been laid out around this greenway, allowing you to enjoy the lush green surroundings of the river banks and discover the cultural and environmental treasures of the town centers. The comfortable, safe paths, 3 meters wide, are accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. Pedaling along the water's edge, discovering nature in a mosaic of landscapes, heritage and tourist attractions... this is the promise of the Via Allier, which will renew the natural link woven by the river and its inhabitants. This "via" is a tremendous promise, linking the Loire to the Mediterranean coast, with a cycle link from Nevers to Palavas-les-Flots. Most of the route takes in the Allier valley, passing through Moulins and the vineyards of Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule. Around Vichy, 27 kilometers of trails, from Billy to Saint-Yorre, reserved exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, are open to locals and tourists alike. The route will soon continue in the Puy-de-Dôme department, covering more than 110 km of marked trails. The unique and omnipresent star of this tour, the Allier River, is revealed in all its forms... Following it from the fortified town of Billy, via Saint-Germain-des-Fossés and its leisure park, you arrive in Vichy from the north, crossing the future Ailes eco-neighborhood before taking the promenade along the banks of Lac d'Allier. Here, the river, wild, natural and sometimes tortured, is regulated by the dam-bridge and forms a vast 100-hectare expanse of water bordering the parks and heart of the Queen of the Water Cities. The rest of the journey between nature and urban areas takes you to Saint-Yorre, on the border of the Puy-de-Dôme département. The water flows from south to north, and the paths along the river invite you to discover the riches of the towns along its banks, opening the doors to their heritage, shops, guinguettes and many activities. On your own, in a group or with the family, on foot or by bike, enjoy the sights and sounds of the Allier, France's last wild river, thanks to the three discovery loops that complete this green walk.

On your own, in a group or with the family, on foot or by bike, enjoy the sights and sounds of the Allier, France's last wild river, on the three discovery trails around the voie verte. Three loops have been laid out around the greenway, allowing visitors to enjoy the lush green surroundings of the river banks and discover the cultural and environmental treasures on offer. The comfortable, 3-meter-wide paths are safe and accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. The Boucle des Sources is a 12km nature trail through lush green surroundings, with the sound of croaking birds and the natural freshness of the Allier riverbanks. The route takes you through the town of Abrest and the magnificent Parc Larbaud in Saint-Yorre, returning via the charming village of Hauterive. The railway bridge, a link between the two banks of the Abrest commune, offers a breathtaking view of the riverbed and marks a signal: that of nature and the river banks rediscovered. The descent to the south offers landscapes and atmospheres whose variety and richness are equalled only by their authenticity... The identity of the area is soon apparent. The water and springs of Saint-Yorre sparkle and welcome the walker with an unparalleled view of the Vichy Saint-Yorre water bottling plant. The Loop des Sources is the assurance of an itinerary designed and adapted for everyone, in a wooded environment where families and more experienced sportsmen and women will take pleasure in crossing an ever-changing countryside. Numerous picnic areas and information points allow you to enjoy these spots along the way. It's also an opportunity to follow a section of the Via Allier alongside the river, or to continue your tour of the town by joining the Boucle des Iles to the north, which also spans the Allier and continues on to the Boucle du Lac.

The impressive Château de Busset, which for centuries belonged to the Bourbon family, can be seen for miles around. This pleasant route, undulating over the foothills of the Montagne Bourbonnaise, joins the Sichon valley, then climbs back up, alternating between refreshing undergrowth and meadows. It's a great way to discover the Montagne Bourbonnaise and the Val d'Allier.

This relatively long hike takes you up the slopes formed by the Allier and Sichon valleys. From rolling landscapes to forest crossings, this route invites you to connect with nature. Numerous viewpoints on the eastern and western slopes of the plateau punctuate this several-hour outing.

The sparkling water that gushes out of Saint-Yorre, discovered in 1850, has a worldwide reputation. This route takes you on a tour of the town's surroundings, through forests and meadows, to the gradually emerging foothills of the Montagne Bourbonnaise.

Trail no. 29 (Uni'Vert Trail label from the Fédération Française d'Athlétisme), 28.62 km from Busset. Starting in Busset, this route takes you through part of the Sichon valley and then up into the foothills of the Montagne Bourbonnaise to the pretty village of Mariol.

A special tour for beginners to discover the Bois Noirs surrounding the village of La Guillermie. Departing from the village of La Guillermie, at an altitude of over 1000 m, this lovely family trail through the Bois du Four takes in the village's surroundings. Don't miss a short break at the Bechemore mill, guardian of the traditions of the past.

Leaving from La Guillermie, discover this lovely forest trail with its beautiful viewpoints. Starting from the village of La Guillermie, at an altitude of over 1,000 meters, this forest trail takes in the surroundings of the village and the Cheirs rock, from which you can see the Terrasson valley and the Auvergne mountains.

Discover the villages of La Guillermie and Ferrières sur Sichon. Starting from the village of La Guillermie, at an altitude of over 1000 m, follow the path down into the valley as far as Ferrières-sur-Sichon, where there used to be lime kilns. Turning left at the hamlet of Cheval Rigon, a short detour takes you to the ruins of Château de Montgilbert, a must-see in the Montagne Bourbonnaise!

The Contemporary Arts Centre in the Creux de l’enfer is located in the Valley of the Factories. This place promotes contemporary artistic creativity and promotes the meeting between arts and audiences.

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

The museum retraces the 600-year history of knife-making heritage. Workshops, knife-making demonstration, sound and light, shop. The museum and its manufacturing workshops tell of 6 centuries of knife making, with a wonderful collection of knives dating from the 16th century to the present day. Workshops, knife manufacturing demonstration, sound and light shows, shop. You can continue finding out about knifemaking on the paths of the VallÈe des Rouets and along the Durolle River (guided tour of the last remaining knife-sharpening mill, operational machinery).

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.

The Contemporary Arts Centre in the Creux de l’enfer is located in the Valley of the Factories. This place promotes contemporary artistic creativity and promotes the meeting between arts and audiences.

The Boulodrome Roger-Dromard has 8 long sets.

Bar-restaurant offering workers' menus. General food, FDJ and themed evenings at weekends. Wednesday: frogs' legs; Thursday: calf's head; Friday: chips and prawns flambéed in whisky.

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.