Explore Saint-prejet-armandon, Auvergne's hidden gem

A beautiful hike with 500 m of height difference which offers many panoramas on the mountains of Auvergne and a variety of landscapes of meadows, forests, streams, valleys and where you can discover the typical rural architecture of Auvergne in Champagnat-Le-Jeune. Starting point - From the starting sign go down a small street below and to the right of the D24. Turn right immediately on a grassy path between 2 low walls. Continue the descent and at the 1st T-junction, turn right and at the 2nd left. At the place called "Le Cerf" cross a stone bridge. Go up in the undergrowth, leaving the path on the right. Continue the ascent to the D24. 1 - Go up for 20 m and take the track on the left. Continue by ignoring two paths on the left until you reach the hamlet "Le Ceilloux". At the exit join the D33, take it to the left until Peslières (near the church, a German cannon from the First World War). At the end of the village, go up the asphalt road on the right until Lospeux. Pass in front of the cross on the right, continue to climb on the path. Cross several hamlets to the D702. 2 - Cross it, go on the asphalt road to the left of the sawmill. Then at the granite cross, take the middle path and walk through the woods. At the T-junction, turn left into the forest alley. Leave 2 paths on the right. Drive up to the D33 (leaving the woods, view of the Cézallier mountains, the Monts Dore and the Chaîne des Puys; orientation table on the D33 on the left at 200 m). 3 - Go down a wide path opposite. At the D132E turn left. 400 m after leaving Edmesse's hamlet, turn right onto a dirt road. At the crossing, continue straight ahead until you reach the D266E. 4 - Take the asphalt road opposite. Continue straight ahead. At the first house on the right of the hamlet of La Voissière, go down to the right on a road. Cross a first stream on a granite slab, turn left, enter a bridge that crosses the stream of Chateauneuf. After the bridge, turn left and go straight up, ignoring the right path. At an intersection, continue to the right until the crossroads after the hamlet of Rodel. 5 - Turn left. At the fork stay on the left. 500 m after the place called Charbonne go up to the right in the forest. At a crossroads, continue in front. At the next crossroads of 5 paths (storage area), go down a wide path to the left. Continue straight ahead. At the cross turn left on the road to reach the starting point.

You will follow the footsteps of the “coal faces” that went down on the history of this territory. Indeed, the coal, gift from the old forests, made the richness of the coal mining area. Other local traditions as the cutlery industry and snail farming are to discover on this tour. Another mining activity was also important on the territory: the amethyst of Auvergne mining. This famous “bishop rock” belongs to the quartz family. Then, you will discover the deposit of Pégut, mined during several centuries for jewellery and ornamentation.

Partez sur le chemin des écoliers et plongez-vous dans le passé de ce charmant petit village.

The village of Celoux, the old railroad line and the windmill are all signs of the past that punctuate this circuit and make it a real heritage pilgrimage.

Ce parcours vous emmène sur un lieu de miracles : pas de source, pas de grotte mais un havre de paix dans une verte vallée, où une naissance inopinée donne son nom au pont du Saint. Puits couverts et fours banaux sont autant de point d’arrêts.

Bâtie sur un piton volcanique, isolée par les vallées profondes, véritables douves naturelles, la forteresse seigneuriale de Loubarcet était imprenable. De la pierre de couleur chaude aux pâturages ou sous-bois, découvrez les panoramas du Pays de Massiac.

A hike in the land of basalt columns on a wooded and varied course accessible to all. A bewitching and impressive stroll towards the cliffs of the Oulette valley (shepherd's crook) or in front of the waves of the Salient waterfall (nearby). Starting point - In front of the church go to the right then to the left by the rue d'Esteil, 80 m further on follow the rue de Cros on the right, then go up by the chemin des Montes. In front of the allotment turn left (view of the village of Jumeaux and the hillock of Nonette). Allow the roads to the right and at the end of the allotment go up to the left. Ignore the first path on the right and go up to the kennel. Continue the ascent without taking into account the paths on either side until the crossroads under the high voltage line. 1 - Continue straight ahead and take the first track on the left. Leave the path on the right and go down to the T-junction, continue to the left on a wide path. At the crossroads go straight ahead, ignoring the paths to the left and right until you reach the intersection (stele). Go down to the right until you reach the hamlet of Brenat. Go down to the right until you reach the road. 2 - Continue opposite on the unpaved road (on the right refuge for birds of prey) continue in the undergrowth until you reach the road. Go to the right and immediately to the left below the road. At the D132, continue to the right until the crossroads. 3 - Turn left, cross the 2 bridges "Moulin de Gourdine" and turn right. Go up to the hairpin bend and down the path to the right until you reach the road. Continue on the left until you reach the pond and after that go up on the left by the road. At the crossroads, continue to the right until Saint-Jean-Saint-Gervais (church and town hall). 4 - After going around the church go down the path (large cross). Continue the descent to the "Moulin de Saint-Jean" (respect private property). Go right, cross the stream on the footbridge. Turn right for 200 m and then go up the road to the left and after 50 m, turn left again (Roman road). Further up the hill, ignore the path on the left and continue until you reach the entrance of Serlandes. 5 - Turn left up to the road. Go left, then leave the road at the second road on the left (viewpoint on Jumeaux, the Puys chain, the puy de Dôme). At the fork turn right (beware 2 paths with green markings cross) go down to the village of Jumeaux. Turn right and continue straight ahead. Leave rue du Ruisseau on the left, continue rue des Aubettes, rue de la Liberté and then rue de l'Eglise to reach the starting point.

From the mounts of Livradois to the sides and hills of Allier, this tour offers a rich and varied discovery. Human beings have known how to control these territories in order to adapt them to the traditional mixed farming (sheep and cattle breeding, cereal production). Along this tour, you will discover local know-how such as fishing, farming and ancient works. You will also enjoy scents and flavours of this territory by taking a walk in botanical gardens and by tasting specialties. Finally, go discover the authenticity and the character of this territory marked by volcanic landscapes and its geology through the amethyst, but also through recreational castles.

Lempdes-sur-Allagnon is interesting for its listed hall dating from 1835, crowned with a framework valued as an architectural masterpiece. We cross puys, volcanic plateaus… Many views over the Livradois, the peaks of Nonette and Usson. Starting point - From the starting sign, cross the bridge over the Béal, cross the public garden on the left, climb the stairs and take the footbridge over the Allagnon. Pass between the tennis court and the village hall; at the road, turn left and follow the campsite. At the three successive forks, turn right to join the D654. 1 - Take the track opposite; at the fork, stay to the left and to the next one. Before the road, turn right towards the water tower. At the intersection, turn right on the upward track that goes around puy Ferrat. At the top of the hill, continue to the right (view of the Montcelet tower). Go straight ahead in Scoularoux then, in the bread oven, go to the right. Ignore the path on the left and continue (view of the Nonette hill, the Livradois mountains) until you reach the reservoir. 2 - Take the right track and continue straight ahead until you reach Moriat. At the stone cross, go along the castle wall to the left. After a fountain, stay to the right (entrance of the castle); at the next crossroads (another fountain), take the rue de la Vizade opposite. At the end of the village (cross), continue straight ahead until you reach a curve on the left. Cross the stream, continue opposite until you reach the D654. 3 - Continue opposite by the rue Filiol which goes to the campsite, turn left to find the path taken on the way there; after the footbridge, turn right. Follow the path that runs along the wall, cross the bridge near the washhouse. Turn immediately to the left on the path along the Béal to reach the starting point (at 100 m in the town centre, church and listed hall).

In the Middle Ages, the village community was built around the chapel. Clinging to a volcanic peak facing the Puys chain, the Dore mountains and the Cézallier plateau, Usson is classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France". Starting point - Take the direction of Coupe-Gorge and then turn left towards Solignat. In Solignat leave the asphalt road and go down to the left to reach a crossroads planted with a chestnut tree in La Chapelle-sur-Usson (Romanesque church Saint-Julien; panorama on the Cézallier mountains). 1 - Continue straight ahead to reach the washhouse at the crossroads at the entrance to Perrier. 2 - Take in the center to enter the village. 10 m before the water point on the left, go down to the right by a tarred road. At the treatment plant, continue to turn right and follow over Ruisseau des Pendillières; cross the Ruisseau des Mines by a bridge to go up to the D703. 3 - Turn right for about 800 m. Go up on the left a path that joins a paved road. Turn right for 100 m. 4 - Cross the D703 again and go down a grassy path opposite. In front of an old well go up on the left. In Les Martres, cross a tarred road to take opposite (old fountain from 1889). At the end of the village, turn right on a track below the D75 road. In Solignat, go up on the left the road previously used to reach Coupe-Gorge and the car park.

A guided tour through the history of France, the gardens and local history. A vast collection of prints discover etching (workshops available during the visit). Italian and French gardens, vegetables garden and orchard.

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 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.

"For holidays a 100% into nature, at the heart of the Forez mounts, we offer three different types of hosting : cabins, huts, quality wagons. Possibility to rent rooms (except July and August)" Tony's team are happy to welcome you all year round to Usson en Forez, at the doors of Auvergne. Back to nature guaranteed in this great place full of hiking trails that you go through by feet, riding a horse or a bike. The residential leisure park proposes a direct access to the water body for fishing lovers but also to the swimming area and aquatic games.

"Le Myrtille is a luxury chalets located within the holiday park, near the lake and the village of Usson-en-Forez. Le Genêt is suitable for wheelchair users."

5 chalets each accommodating 6 guests at “Les Chalets du Haut-Forez”, a holiday park near the lake and not far from the village of Usson-en-Forez.

5 chalets each accommodating 4 guests at “Les Chalets du Haut-Forez”, a holiday park near the lake and not far from the village of Usson-en-Forez.

An artistic space dedicated to engraving and micropublishing linked to the tradition of paper making in the region. Workshops of typography and screen-printing and linocut.

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.

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.

A guided tour through the history of France, the gardens and local history. A vast collection of prints discover etching (workshops available during the visit). Italian and French gardens, vegetables garden and orchard.

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.

The district of Brassaget was known until the 16th century, only for its ferry, which allowed connecting the two sides of the Allier River. Its importance increased in the 17th century, with the joint development of the transportation by waterway and the mining. In 1795, almost 300 bargemen and other men working in relation with the water lived from the fluvial activity of the Allier River, and lived, for the majority, in the Brassaget district. The ferryboat of Brassaget was used until 1950.

This museum retraces the history of locomotion through the ages, with over 80 vehicles on display in a 1500m² exhibition area and reconstructed vintage stores! The exhibition is renewed every year : 2025 air-cooled engines in the spotlight ! Come and stroll through a reconstructed village, take a break at the bus stop. After passing in front of the garage, head for the farm. Then take the street that leads to the campsite, walk along the shopping street and go to the cinema.

The Museum Peynet recounts the memory of Raymond Peynet, creator of the famous eponymous “Amoureux”. Located 2, avenue Jean Moulin. Phone number: 04.73.55.18.31.

The prosperous time of the inland water shipping of Auvergne is indivisible of the success of wine-growing and mining exploitation. Until the arrival of the railway in the middle of the 19th century, flat-bottomed boats were constructed in Jumeaux with pine from Livradois and Margeride, hence their name of “sapinière” (plantation). Then, they went down the Allier River on a one-way trip and transported to Paris the cargoes of coal, wine, fruits, etc. In Jumeaux, there was a time in which construction sites spread along the Allier River for more than one kilometre, and they employed in 1795 almost 260 carpenters, apportioned in 80 workshops (there is no more remains of this today). Between Jumeaux and Coudes were staggered on the Allier River about ten “ports” where goods were embarked over the descent. Along the river, several elements discreetly remind of this closed chapter of the navigation of the Allier River: old ramps or quays in Brassaget and Coudes, or storage caves (old port of Perthus in Orbeil).

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

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.

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

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.

Specialties include grilled meats and regional dishes: pounti, truffade, Auvergne platters and tasting platters, all served in a bright, open-plan dining room, under a covered terrace or in the open air.

The Auberge de l'Allagnonette welcomes you to a building full of character. The chef prepares delicious dishes: millefeuille of black pudding with foie gras, duck breast with red fruit, etc. Regional dishes: cantal tart, pounti, truffade, tripoux.

"Come and enjoy Dajmila’s cuisine in the heart of the village. Chez l’Hôte is a café and restaurant serving family dishes, traditional French cuisine, and eastern specialities such as couscous and kebab."

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 ...

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.

Cuisine based on local, natural products. Spicy, mild and deliciously flavoured dishes. Local, regional products and traditional beverages.

Lovely stone farm recently restored on edge of Auvergne, 20km from spectacular lava flows of Bouriannes. 4 guest rooms with private facilities (twin beds) (double bed, twin beds on mezzanine) (double bed) (160cm bed) (double bed, twin beds). Superb dining room, 80 sq. m sitting room with beamed ceiling et fireplace. Individual décor featuring wood et stone. Breakfast et table d'hôte meals use home-made et home-grown produce. Enjoy the bracing air, the peace et quiet of this easily accessible hamlet in heart of countryside. Garage nearby. Le Puy-en-Velay 50km, La Chaise-Dieu 35km.

Welcome to Sayed & Anne! Whether you are a pilgrim or on holiday, the three guest rooms will meet your expectations. They are located in the center of the green station, close to the shops and the water body that offers various activities.

Apartment located on the 2nd floor of the restaurant. In the heart of Usson-en-Forez, labelled Famille Plus Nature. Close to all shops and services, activities in the heart of nature (water, bike rental, adventure park...). Possibility to rent by the night. The furnished flat has a lounge(show) with sofa bed, an open-plan kitchen, a mezzannine for 1 to 2 children, a room(chamber) with a bed 140, a bathroom and of one toilets.

Apartment located on the first floor of the Rival-Renaud restaurant. In the heart of Usson-en-Forez, labelled Famille Plus Nature. Close to all shops and services, activities in the heart of nature. Possibility to rent by night. The furnished flat has a lounge(show) with sofa bed, an open-plan kitchen, a room(chamber) with a bed 140, a bathroom and of one toilets.

Familial hotel located at the heart of the village. Ideal if you enjoy pedestrian or horse hikes or simply looking for fresh air. Nathalie and Nicolas will give you a warm welcome. 4 bedrooms on the first floor with TV, bathroom and toilets. 2 bedrooms on the second floor.

Charming little wooden chalet in the village of Usson-en-Forez, a few steps from the shops and enjoying the peace and quiet of the countryside. With a large bedroom with separate sanitary facilities, it is an ideal place for hikers or a couple with children.

A stone's throw from the village and the lake, the camping les Tilleuls welcomes you to its quiet and rural surroundings. You will enjoy a wide choice of outdoor activities thanks to the Station Verte (natural tourist area). Also, you will find here all types of small traders in a rural environment. The village is classified among Green Holidays Resorts thanks to its lake, its holidays accommodation and several summer activities.

Brigitte and Claude welcome you in the former hotel of Usson en Forez's train station, located in the village and close to a waterbody. You will be welcomed in a 19th century atmosphere and will discover 5 characterful bedrooms, offering comfort and warmth to its guests. Five bedromms are available for you including two familial suites with 5 beddings in 140cm. Bathroom and private toilets for each room. Welcoming capacity of 10 people. Private garden and furnished terrace are also at your disposal. Special welcome for babys et young children with adequate material. Special welcome to fishers with dedicated storage for fishing accessories and garage for cyclists and motorcycle drivers.