Explore Saint-germain-l'herm: Puy-de-Dôme's Hidden Gem

Discover the Livradois-Forez region through a hike in a mid-mountain area...

After Saint-Bonnet-le-Chastel and its Gothic church, the trail alternates between woods and pastures. The winding La Dolore stream has long irrigated mills and continues to carve out gorges. Numerous viewpoints over the Dolore valley.

A walk from Fayet-Ronaye (Romanesque church rebuilt in the 14th century) on steep, wooded slopes with views over the surrounding hills and forests. At Ronaye is a beautiful granite cross dating from the late 14th century.

A circuit in the highlands of Ste-Catherine (14th-century church) with panoramic views of the Dôme, Dore and Cézallier mountains, as well as two beautiful crosses at the hamlets of Moulin à vent and Peslières.

You cross a dike overlooking the pond, where you can picnic or fish (day pass available on site). A stream, a small bridge, a wild beach where you can dip your feet in the water - this is a lovely, gentle walk for the whole family.

This itinerary is dedicated to the château belonging to the family of the famous General Lafayette. From a typical Livradois village of granite houses, you overlook the Cézallier and Sancy mountains. A forest trail leading past a former amethyst mining site.

Leaning on the La Palle stream, Gargantua dug a rocky outcrop: the "Pas de Gargantua", while man has left behind a significant built heritage: church, calvary, sculpted doorway, wrought-iron or granite crosses, bread oven, fountains, washhouse, etc.

A pleasant loop through the land of amethyst, once so common on these paths lined with wild fruit. In summer, you'll enjoy the Vernet-Chamèane lake, and all year round the local heritage (15th-century church, Montfort castle, seesaw and shoeing loom).

A walk through the tall forests of the Haut-Livradois, ideal habitat for Tengmalm's owl and black woodpecker. The paths lined with crosses around Fournols priory offer views of the Forestier ponds, Croix des Sucs and Colombière.

A trail following in the footsteps of Haute-Dore's industrial past, from the Vernet mill to the Piers mill and the former Aubapeyre quarry. Nature is omnipresent and has reclaimed the landscape, including some magnificent trees.

Discover this historic site in Arlanc, high above the town. The owner will take you into his home and reveal all its secrets: the stages of construction, the gardens, the prints, the collections, ... The owner's tour of the château de Mons, 11th-17th-19th centuries, takes you on a journey through French history: architectural evolution, key figures, garden history, the 1939-45 era, local history. The vast collection of printed images from the 15th to the 20th centuries is also an opportunity to discover the world of prints: art, caricatures, comic strips and the history of manga. Visualization of optical views with a zograscope and an optical box, pre-cinema. New: educational tour of the gardens, which have just been redesigned based on the only known painting of the château dating from 1690 and an important manuscript by the owner at the time: Italian garden, vegetable garden and orchard, with an educational tour, opening of the orangery devoted to the history of these gardens based on historical documents, and creation of a garden of 20 squares of simple plants with a presentation of their virtues, care for the body and care for the mind. Other new features: cultural season (readings in the gardens, lectures, concerts, etc.): see program on www.chateau-de-mons-arlanc.com

This garden has the shape of a planisphere which will guide you along the paths of history, botany and the smart relationship between men and nature. Welcome to Jardin pour la Terre: An Unforgettable Plant Escapade A World at Your Feet Imagine a place where the Earth is offered up to you like a giant map, verdant and alive. In the heart of the Livradois-Forez Natural Park, the Garden for the Earth is a unique creation, born in 1997 from the inspiration of landscape architect Laurence Médioni. Spanning 6.5 hectares, this contemporary garden is transformed into a vegetal planisphere: the plant beds trace the continents, while the lawns undulate like seas and oceans. From the 25-metre-high belvedere, you can dominate this exceptional landscape and contemplate the world, literally at your feet. An Ecological and Sensory Journey Le Jardin pour la Terre is more than just a garden: it's an adventure in plant life. Here, more than 2,000 varieties of plants - vegetables, flowers, trees and spices - are returned to their continent of origin, offering an experience that's both fun and educational. Every step is a discovery, every visit a lesson in biodiversity. Committed to the planet, the garden adopts exemplary ecological practices: watering is by underground drip to conserve water, grass clippings and shavings are reused as mulch to enrich the soil, and every gesture is designed to respect natural rhythms. A zero-phyto area, where nature reigns supreme and every visitor becomes an ambassador for the environment. A lively cultural stage Le Jardin pour la Terre is a lively, creative and festive place. Throughout the season, it comes alive with art exhibitions, shows, concerts and workshops for young and old. Guided tours reveal the secrets of biodiversity, while activities invite you to observe wildlife, taste edible plants or create your own natural products. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a family looking for an original outing or simply a nature lover, this garden is a place where everyone can meet, learn and relax. An authentic souvenir to take away Before leaving this haven of peace, make a detour to the garden boutique. Here you'll discover artisan treasures: golden honey, fruity jams, scented soaps, precious saffron, and many other local products. You can also take home a plant from the garden, grown with respect for the environment. A way to prolong the experience and support local producers, while keeping a piece of this plant magic in your own home. Coming to the Jardin pour la Terre is an opportunity to travel across continents without leaving the Auvergne, to discover rare and unusual plants, and to spend an enriching day of wonder, learning and relaxation. Le Jardin pour la Terre is much more than a garden: it's an invitation to dream, learn and get involved. Come and discover it, and let yourself be surprised by its beauty and soul. ✨

A place for cultural experimentation in the region. Le Bief puts on a program of shows and visual arts (printmaking, engraving). It is an association that works to disseminate culture to as wide an audience as possible. Experimentation and cultural action: From its headquarters in the heart of Ambert, the company offers a wide range of activities: home shows, intergenerational projects, artistic immersions in institutions, school projects, and workshops for young and old (dance, theater, plastic arts, singing, music). Support for local and international artists: Le Bief stimulates artistic creation in the region through artist residencies and support initiatives (training, residencies). Its artistic production space, dedicated to printmaking and micro-publishing, is linked to the region's paper-making tradition. Its gallery hosts temporary exhibitions and a boutique selling the work of local and international visual artists. Highlights at the crossroads of the visual and performing arts: Two major events organized by the Bief take place every year, bringing together the two poles of the Bief's activities (performing arts and graphic arts). The Festival de la Bonne Impression and Les Vitrines qui Parlent (in partnership with other associations). Le Bief HQ is located right in the center of town, and comprises our offices, workshops and public reception area. Come and meet us, visit the store and the exhibition gallery. Free admission. 2025: exhibition of Japanese prints from June 7 to August 30 during the opening hours of the Centre culturel du Bief. The team : Ben Quêne: Director in charge of the Graphic Arts division Dorothée Machet: Director in charge of Performing Arts Adrien Givois: Accounting / Administration Montaine Sanchez: Graphic Arts Project Manager Fred Bernard: Stage Manager (intermittent)

La Maison de la Fourme d’Ambert gives information of the historical and present-day production of Fourme, AOP cheese of Auvergne. Summer workshops: cheese-making, butter production, Fourme hamburger. Are you familiar with Fourme d'Ambert, the blue-veined cylinder cheese? A staple of the traditional family cheese platter, "fourme" has been produced in the Livradois-Forez region for centuries. The Maison de la Fourme d'Ambert et des fromages d'Auvergne is located in a 14th-century house in downtown Ambert. It showcases the making of Fourme d'Ambert cheese, a collection of dairy utensils and equipment, and items linked to life in the mountain pastures (jasseries, milking cows, rosaries, etc.). The maturing cellar showcases the five Auvergne PDO cheeses. Tasting and store selling local products. In summer, workshops and events: cheese and butter making...

In 14th century, paper replaced parchment and Ambert mills began making paper from cloth. Today, the mill continues this ancestral trade. Close to Ambert, the Richard de Bas paper mill keeps the region's paper-making tradition alive. Located in the Laga valley, this venerable mill is the last in Auvergne, a region where paper production began in the 14th century. Today, at the Richard de Bas mill, activity continues according to traditions as old as the walls themselves. Two hundred sheets leave the workshop every day, all handmade according to a seasonal rhythm that sees white, mottled or colored paper give way to "flowered" paper, with its extraordinarily diverse inclusions and compositions. Visits will reveal the secrets of paper pulp manufacture, a treasure handed down by craftsmen since 1326. You'll also have the chance to get your hands dirty in workshops for young and old alike. This is your chance to make your own leaf with floral inclusions or arrangements. After this creative and heritage break, come and quench your thirst at the mill's refreshment bar! New for 2025: Flower arrangement workshop

The Hôtel d'Aureilhe (old château de Villeneuve), residence of the Aureilhe de Villeneuve family in the 15th and 16th centuries, is a fortified medieval perimeter that bears architectural witness to the rise of the nobility in feudal Lembron. It features : - An early 11th-century keep, a square tower surrounded by a first enclosure, of which fine remains have been found, and from the top of which you can admire an exceptional panorama. - The mansion itself, a 15th-century seigniorial palace. - The second enclosure and the 16th-century main buildings currently being restored. The building is listed on the Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments. The renovations were carried out with the help of the French government, the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region and the Puy de Dôme department.

Built at the end of the Middle Ages, this château contains some of the most extraordinary furniture and painted decor from the 16th and 17th centuries, a dazzling illustration of the medieval and early Renaissance imagination. 1-hour guided tour only. Château de Villeneuve-Lembron is a seigniorial residence built at the turn of the 15th and 16th centuries. Reflecting a period of transition between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, the building shows the importance and wealth that the lord of Villeneuve, Rigaud d'Aureille, derived from royal favor, thanks in particular to the preserved furniture and painted decorations. Rigaud d'Aureille (c. 1450-1517), Baron de Villeneuve, was an important figure who enjoyed many privileges. Captain and butler to the king, he earned the trust of the sovereigns and was entrusted with diplomatic missions. The residence he had built away from the old family mansion where he was born was a vast quadrilateral flanked by massive towers and surrounded by deep moats. The lord did not hesitate to depict himself in murals illustrating "dits", short plays with a moral or satirical tone. At the beginning of the 16th century, the land of Villeneuve became a barony and belonged to the Montmorin family. Gaspard de Montmorin embellished the château with a large-scale painted decor, of which some remarkable examples remain in the ceremonial hall and large stables. In 1643, Villeneuve-Lembron was acquired by Isaac Dufour, Treasurer of France, who transformed the inner courtyard, added a porticoed gallery and decorated the ceilings and fireplaces on the second floor. His descendants, who remained in the castle until the end of the 18th century, sold it to the Pélissier de Féligonde family, who kept it until 1919. By decree of May 25, 1926, the château was classified as a Historic Monument. The last owner, Georges Tixier, donated it to the French government in 1937, which undertook its restoration. It is currently managed by the Centre des Monuments Nationaux.

From wine tasting to vineyard walks, come and spend a convivial moment at Domaine Sauvat. Annie, an artisan winemaker, will share her expertise and passion for wine with you in a unique and intimate setting. In the heart of the volcanic landscapes of the Auvergne, I welcome every visitor to Domaine Sauvat as a privileged guest. I'm Annie, and I'm passionate about sharing my terroir and my love of Pinot Noir. I like to take the time to talk, tell and share, whether it's during a free wine tasting all year round at the domaine or a walk through my vineyards. I grow three cuvées of Pinot Noir from our volcanic soil: Anthocyane, a delicate, fruity red, Nymphéa, a more intense, structured red, and Eolia, an airy, gourmet rosé. Each of these cuvées tells a part of my story and that of this unique terroir. In 2026, I've come up with new ways for you to experience the estate. You'll be able to take part in yoga sessions in the vineyards, listen to storytelling walks, learn the art of dowsing, enjoy a romantic starlit evening in the heart of the vineyard or come to an aperitif concert... I want every moment spent here to be an authentic, simple and memorable interlude. I'm also proud that the estate has been awarded the Qualidog, Vignobles & Découvertes and Bienvenue à la Ferme labels, recognizing the value of our welcome, our commitment and the quality of our experiences. I invite you to find me on Facebook and Instagram to follow the life of the estate and discover our upcoming events. I look forward to sharing a warm moment with you.

Discover life in the jasseries, the summer farms of the Hautes Chaumes: how they worked, traditional fourme cheese making, the history of summer pastures and the changing landscapes. What is a jasserie and how did it work? How was fourme cheese made? Who went up to the mountain pastures? How did they live? The museum space under the thatched roof of the jasserie answers these questions. (Self-guided tour or with audioguide). The Jasserie du Coq Noir also offers a wide range of activities to help you discover the environment and our heritage: nature walks for children, storytelling walks, self-guided treasure hunts, picking walks, etc. A cultural season is organized from May to October. And last but not least, you can enjoy local products (including the famous patia) by the fireside...

Welcome in a completely renovated farm barn that privileges wood, for a friendly and warm stay in the countryside at a few kilometres from the village. Ideal for a quiet stay with many hikes.

The museum “Le petit monde des automates”, created by Miss Giraud that makes live the ancient works, in a magical village of moving crib figures in printed clay, with sound and light. Located in the village. Phone number : 04.73.71.27.71

Constructed in the 15th century, this castle is the property of the municipality of Le Vernet-la-Varenne. On the ground floor, you can visit the amethyst museum to discover the history and the nature of this violet rock, also called “bishop’s rock”. Greeks said that it protected from drunkenness and allowed the elevation of the spirit. The museum presents this mineral and its history through a commented exposition, fun activities and accompanied walks. Phone number : 04.73.71.31.32

The lake of Le Vernet-la-Varenne. Lifeguard on duty in July and August from 11 o’clock to 12, and then from 14 o’clock to 18. Phone number : 04.73.71.31.21

Built in the 12th century, the church was a simple chapel serving the castle overlooking the village. This castral chapel was built inside the bailey adjacent to the château, of which only a few fortification remains. The exterior of the building was extensively remodeled in the 19th century. For a long time, Saint-Pierre church was a treasure trove. But it was only in 1965 that a rare collection of wall frescoes was discovered in the choir. In Romanesque style, although executed late in the early 14th century, these paintings present a grandiose - almost life-size - scene of Christ in majesty, surrounded by the symbols of the four evangelists and the twelve apostles. The frescoes cover the barrel vault and the walls, including the splaying of the three narrow Romanesque bays illuminating the apse. Ideally placed for the contemplation of the faithful during services, they radiated their almighty beauty to deliver biblical precepts to parishioners.

The amethyst, with its brilliant violet colour, was exploited for more than 5 centuries in the park of Livradois-Forez, for jewellery and ornamentation. Go looking for it with passionate miners that dig by hand in their deposit in Pégut. Information and reservation “Amethysts of Auvergne” at the 06.78.85.65.44.

Discover this historic site in Arlanc, high above the town. The owner will take you into his home and reveal all its secrets: the stages of construction, the gardens, the prints, the collections, ... The owner's tour of the château de Mons, 11th-17th-19th centuries, takes you on a journey through French history: architectural evolution, key figures, garden history, the 1939-45 era, local history. The vast collection of printed images from the 15th to the 20th centuries is also an opportunity to discover the world of prints: art, caricatures, comic strips and the history of manga. Visualization of optical views with a zograscope and an optical box, pre-cinema. New: educational tour of the gardens, which have just been redesigned based on the only known painting of the château dating from 1690 and an important manuscript by the owner at the time: Italian garden, vegetable garden and orchard, with an educational tour, opening of the orangery devoted to the history of these gardens based on historical documents, and creation of a garden of 20 squares of simple plants with a presentation of their virtues, care for the body and care for the mind. Other new features: cultural season (readings in the gardens, lectures, concerts, etc.): see program on www.chateau-de-mons-arlanc.com

The Musée des Pénitents Blancs, housed in the 12th-century Romanesque chapel in Marsac-en-Livradois, features a collection of processional emblems and religious objects unique in France. Last departure 1 h before closing time. A retrospective, with commentary and sound, shows the celebration of the service in the presence of the penitents in their stalls. A diorama recreates the dark procession with bags and hoods, transporting us back to an 18th century steeped in mystery.

This garden has the shape of a planisphere which will guide you along the paths of history, botany and the smart relationship between men and nature. Welcome to Jardin pour la Terre: An Unforgettable Plant Escapade A World at Your Feet Imagine a place where the Earth is offered up to you like a giant map, verdant and alive. In the heart of the Livradois-Forez Natural Park, the Garden for the Earth is a unique creation, born in 1997 from the inspiration of landscape architect Laurence Médioni. Spanning 6.5 hectares, this contemporary garden is transformed into a vegetal planisphere: the plant beds trace the continents, while the lawns undulate like seas and oceans. From the 25-metre-high belvedere, you can dominate this exceptional landscape and contemplate the world, literally at your feet. An Ecological and Sensory Journey Le Jardin pour la Terre is more than just a garden: it's an adventure in plant life. Here, more than 2,000 varieties of plants - vegetables, flowers, trees and spices - are returned to their continent of origin, offering an experience that's both fun and educational. Every step is a discovery, every visit a lesson in biodiversity. Committed to the planet, the garden adopts exemplary ecological practices: watering is by underground drip to conserve water, grass clippings and shavings are reused as mulch to enrich the soil, and every gesture is designed to respect natural rhythms. A zero-phyto area, where nature reigns supreme and every visitor becomes an ambassador for the environment. A lively cultural stage Le Jardin pour la Terre is a lively, creative and festive place. Throughout the season, it comes alive with art exhibitions, shows, concerts and workshops for young and old. Guided tours reveal the secrets of biodiversity, while activities invite you to observe wildlife, taste edible plants or create your own natural products. Whether you're a botany enthusiast, a family looking for an original outing or simply a nature lover, this garden is a place where everyone can meet, learn and relax. An authentic souvenir to take away Before leaving this haven of peace, make a detour to the garden boutique. Here you'll discover artisan treasures: golden honey, fruity jams, scented soaps, precious saffron, and many other local products. You can also take home a plant from the garden, grown with respect for the environment. A way to prolong the experience and support local producers, while keeping a piece of this plant magic in your own home. Coming to the Jardin pour la Terre is an opportunity to travel across continents without leaving the Auvergne, to discover rare and unusual plants, and to spend an enriching day of wonder, learning and relaxation. Le Jardin pour la Terre is much more than a garden: it's an invitation to dream, learn and get involved. Come and discover it, and let yourself be surprised by its beauty and soul. ✨

The site of a priory belonging to the Abbey of Saint Michel de Cluse in Piedmont, Saint Pierre church was rebuilt in the 12th and 13th centuries. In later centuries, the outer walls were opened to accommodate rib-vaulted side chapels, forming a second aisle. Highlights: Inside, several capitals from a local workshop. Numerous statues, including a 16th-century stone Virgin of Pity. In the belfry, the oldest bell in the diocese. Near the chevet, an 11th-century sarcophagus in local granite.

Handmade lace museum: a visit at the heart of our heritage where the history of lace is told. Discover the techniques of bobbin lacemaking and needle lace-making. An exhibition and classes are organized during the season. This museum offers visitors an immersive experience into the little-known yet extraordinary world of lace-making. Hand-Lace Museum. A journey into the heart of our heritage, where the history of lace is brought to life. Four exhibition halls, an audiovisual documentary, and guided tours invite visitors to discover the techniques of bobbin and needle lace, a specialty of Arlan. The Lace Museum has partnered with several other sites related to lace and textiles to create a tourist circuit called “The Lace Route.” Discover the various lace-related crafts, visit the Hôtel de la Dentelle or Couleurs Dentelle in Brioude, the National Lace Conservatory Workshop in Le Puy-en-Velay and the Bobbin Lace Teaching Center in Le Puy-en-Velay, the Headdress Museum in Bresle, and the Lace Manufactories Museum in Retournac. Show your map at the reception desk of each location, and you’ll receive a little surprise!

Nathalie welcomes you to her restaurant located in the heart of the green resort of Usson. Young and old alike will be able to enjoy a traditional cuisine of quality based on fresh products. Former Rival restaurant. Specialties: foie gras, ice verbena, fresh meat and fish. The menu changes according to seasonal products. Ideal for family meals: 2 dining rooms, 1 room for children and 1 terrace. Near the museum of the Forez mountains and outdoor activities: water, mountain bike rides, adventure park ...

From the simple, the real, the authentic terroir, in a warm, family and friendly atmosphere. A very popular inn where quality and quantity are essential. The restaurant room is integrated into a typical summer jasserie. High altitude inn on summer pastures offering fresh local produce from surrounding farms (ATDR label). Booking strictly needed as no mains electricity. Hautes Chaumes (High Pastures) specialities: -local cured meats -local cheeses -thresher's pâté, bilberry or walnut tarts according to season -patia (potatoe with cream cooked slowly over 5 hours). Group rate (minimum 20 people)

"For a hot lunch, the restaurant Les Epilobes proposes a brand new menu, with a daily special, meal deals and snacks. Fast, practical and economical, with a range of dishes to choose from (starters, mains and desserts), to suit all tastes!"

Located next to the waterbody, le Cabanon welcomes you for lunch and in the evening but also for a small gourmet break in the afternoon.

Just a few steps from the station of Chalmazel, the Auberge des Granges offers you farmhouse specialities : delicatessen , patia (potates baked in cream), chicken liver cake, sausage rolls, bilberry tarte, Montbrison cheese raclette, Forez hotpot... booking necessary.

Restaurant suggesting a traditional cooking. Located at the entrance of La Chapelle en Lafaye in an old restored farm. Terrace, take-away meals (on request).

Refrigerated gourmet racks with specialties from Auvergne and other regions. Sweet gourmet racks. Open 24 hours a day.

Menu based on fresh seasonal produce. Licence IV.

In this village of character, come discover a cuisine rich in flavours. Fresh cuisine with flowers and plants. The menu changes every month.

Welcome in a completely renovated farm barn that privileges wood, for a friendly and warm stay in the countryside at a few kilometres from the village. Ideal for a quiet stay with many hikes.

La Loge de la morte has been rehabilitated for the self-service reception of all publics, including the disabled public.

This chalet is situated at an altitude of 1300 m between the Col du Béal and the ski slopes, facing south. 20 minute walk from the car park. Ideally situated for sports activities (hiking, snow shoes, mountain bike, Alpine skiing or nordic climbing)

Very comfortable cottage with a large heated verandah. Enclosed garden. Great viewpoint, located at 15 minutes from the ski slopes. Sleds and snowshoes available, games. Great walks from the cottage.

In a remarkable natural setting of medium mountain, Le Chalet L'Eau Vive, functional and convivial, offers you all the comfort necessary to welcome your group. Whether you are a family, a friend, a training organization, a school group or a sports association, Adèle and Frédéric offer you an à la carte stay, adapted to your needs, in a warm atmosphere. Several formulas to choose from: free management with or without meals, half board or full board, room hire. The owners, professionals of the restoration, offer you a regional kitchen of quality. In a green or snowy landscape, for lovers of gliding, sensations and outdoor activities, there is something for all tastes: cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, hiking, mountain biking and mountain biking. trail, descent scooters, etc ... Group gite of 600 m²: dining room of 79 m² with central fireplace, professional kitchen, activity room or seminary of 60 m² included with accommodation, 9 bedrooms, 8 with private bathrooms, 2 small dormitories with shared bathrooms. Relaxation area with sauna (fee payable in free management). Possibility of half board or full board for groups (sheets and household included for groups of adults), possibility of renting part of the cottage only for 22 people, rental of rooms possible without accommodation. Sheets rental 8.50 € / bed. Big field with games of ball and animals on place for the happiness of the small ones. Room available to store ski equipment, bicycles, etc ... Edges in the course of finishing.

Fully renovated late 19th century stone-built farmhouse. This gîte is situated near the village of Gumières, offering a real belvedere over the Mounts and plain of Forez, at the entrance to Auvergne. Gîte is near village of Gumières with great views over the Forez mountains et plain, bordering the Auvergne. St-Anthème et Prabouret ski resort 10 min. Livradois Forez national park, ideal area for nature-lovers. St Etienne 40km.

Mme Suguenot welcomes you to a medieval castle in her five guest rooms of character. Each room is decorated in the taste of one of the periods in the life of the castle. Come and imagine yourself in the past for one night and go back through eight centuries of history.