Valette, Cantal, Auvergne: charm and discoveries

This hike takes you back in time, in the footsteps of our Auvergne ancestors, from the 14th to the 19th centuries. In Aldy wood, the route passes through the ruins of an ancient village, probably dating from the 14th century, with the outlines of its dwellings still marked by stone alignments. At the end of the hamlet of Bélière, on the roadside, a remarkable fence was built at the end of the 19th century by the "peasant painter" Pierre Guignebourg, known as Millange. The wall is made of large lava blocks. This enclosure certainly remains the most exceptional of the low walls that structured the spaces in our region. Its construction represents a feat that earned its creator agricultural merit. Departure point: Hamlet of Bélière. From Le Monteil, take the D30 to the hamlet of La Cartelade, then follow the signs for Bélière for 700m before finding the starting point (parking lot). Follow the road uphill on foot.

Ascent: 570 m Tarmac sections 14 Starting from La Monselie, the gradient and technical sections, which sometimes require sharing (red point), make this a difficult circuit intended for a more experienced public. Departure also indicated at Vebret.

On the steep slopes of the Violon valley, you walk along the edge of the Planèze de Trizac, a vast basaltic flow that terminates the Cantalien volcano to the north-west. In Gallo-Roman times, an Arverne settlement may have existed at Le Monteil. In 1892, along the road leading from Jalaniac to Le Monteil, 150m from the village, a necropolis was unearthed. It contained five earthen or glass funerary urns, offerings and a life-size statue in arkose, dated between the late 1st and 4th centuries. The figure depicted could be a magistrate. Departure point: Moulin de Faussanges. From Monselie, follow signs for Arfeuilles, then Faussanges. The starting point is in a large bend before reaching the Faussanges mill. Follow the path up to the edge of the wood.

This challenging mountain bike trail takes in the northern end of the Trizac planèze and the impressive organs of Chastel-Marlhac and Monteil.

This hike takes you through the lands of Muradès, an ancient commune made up of villages dependent on the seigneury of Murat-la-Rabe. A variant takes you to the listed site of the Chapelle du Roc Vignonnet. The Roc Vignonnet chapel is a fine example of Upper Auvergne Romanesque architecture. The ashlar chevet features an apse flanked by two apsidioles. The walls here have retained the bolt holes used to fix the scaffolding during construction. They are crowned by a cornice supported by remarkable modillions. The building also features a series of richly sculpted bases and capitals. Departure point: Hamlet of Pouzadou. Near the pétanque court and picnic area, head towards Monselie. Immediately to the left, go down the grassy path that starts between two meadows. Variant : After the hamlet of Vignon (bread oven and pretty millstone), on a beautiful path lined with low walls, you can reach the Chapelle du Roc Vignonnet (listed site), by a steep path. At the summit, the chapel overlooks the valley and is set in a walled garden dotted with gravestones.

This sometimes aerial route takes you from the Romanesque church of Antignac to the Agayrou rock and the Saint-Hubert rock, which proudly dominate the Sumène valley. The Roche Hubert site is a testimony to medieval times, and has been the subject of archaeological excavations. These have confirmed the presence of a modest building that would have served as a refuge during the troubled times of the Middle Ages. Of particular interest are the weapons discovered on the site during the excavations, dating from the late 14th century and made in England. Departure point: Place Jean Chanut. Take the lane leading up to the church. On leaving the village, head towards Druls. After the railroad line, turn right, then immediately left onto a path that leads into the woods. After the railroad, turn right, then immediately left onto a path that leads into the woods. Alternative route: From the summit, return via Salsignac and Masternat (unmarked) to avoid the sometimes dangerous descent under the rocks.

This route takes you along the steep banks of the Rhue Gorge, to the pastures where shepherds once tended their flocks of sheep. Near Tampagniergues, you'll notice an old shepherd's hut. Shepherds were once employed by local villagers to tend their flocks of sheep. They built themselves a rounded dry-stone hut, covered with a large flat stone, branches or broom. During the long hours spent waiting and watching over the flock, the shepherd would gather the berries. He picked berries, but also plants whose virtues he knew. Departure point: Bridge over the Soulou at Couzans. From Antignac, follow the signs for Couzans for about 1.5 km to reach the starting point at the small bridge over the Soulou. From here, take the road along the stream.

A circuit with no particular difficulties. Take care when crossing the D3. Start in Vebret at the Espace Saint Louis parking lot, cross the bridge over the Sumène. 1. Cross the railroad line (watch out for the tourist train), and take the first path on the left. The circuit skirts a meadow, crosses a grove and joins a wide land consolidation track. 2. At the crossroads, go straight ahead on the path lined with low walls to reach the Druhl mill. 3. At the top of the hill, before the first houses, turn left, then quickly right through the village of Druhl to Antignac.

On the program: an ethnobotanical discovery trail, the charming hamlet of Milhac and its impressive organs overlooking the Sumène valley. At an altitude of 700 m, Milhac lies on the slopes of a small valley on the edge of the Trizac plateau. The latter corresponds to a vast basaltic flow called planèze. This flow abutted an older phonolitic flow, ending here with remarkable cliffs overlooking the Sumène valley. These are known as the Milhac rocks. Part of this circuit is an ethnobotanical discovery trail. Created by the Office National des Forêts, it features a fine sampling of our region's trees. Starting point: Hameau de Milhac. Start above the bread oven (picnic table). Walk down the small road past the oven.

From Anglards-de-Salers, follow the signs and take the “Estives”road. The highest altitude is 1200 metres in the hamlet of Fignac. Leave your car in the small carpark and let yourself be guided… During the 1h30/2h walk, you will admire the Cantal Mountains on the way out and the Sancy and Limousin mountains on the way back. The panels made of enamelled lava will help you to learn more about our heritage notably the “burons”, mountain dairies. From Anglards-de-Salers, follow the signs and take the "Estive road" . The highest altitude is 1200 metres in the hamlet of Fignac. Leave your car in the small car park and let yourself be guided… During the 1h30/2h walk, you will admire the Cantal Mountains on the way out and the Sancy and Limousin mountains on the way back. The panels made of enamelled lava will help you to learn more about our heritage notably the "burons", mountain dairies. At the end, have a picnic near the "Buron de la Béliche" (free entrance), a previous dairy recently restored and admire the viewpoint !

House located in a quiet hamlet 1 km from the village where you'll find a bakery, grocery stores... 4 bedrooms (3 beds 140 + 1 double bed 90 + 1 single bed + 1 child's bed), living room, dining room, 2 bathrooms. Other shops are between 8 and 12 km away (Ydes, Bort-les-Orgues, Riom-ès-Montagnes and Champs-sur-Tarentaine). We're equidistant from the Cantal and Sancy mountains to discover the Auvergne volcanoes. Several hiking trails close to the gîte. Water sports and swimming (pool, beaches) nearby.

In the heart of the "Dailles" region, 5 km from the village, 2 guest rooms at Le Sellier are the perfect place to recharge your batteries, a stopover at the end of the world, on the edge of nature and surrounded by animals. A kitchenette is available for meals. Breakfast and catered meals available by reservation only. Shared bathroom and WC for both rooms. We welcome riders, hikers and mountain bikers.

Detached house in small village 9km from Lac de Lastioulles and Bort-les-Orgues dam. Communal dining room with fully-equipped kitchenette, 4 bedrooms available, no table d'hôtes. Wifi on request.

The Gîte des Abeilles, located in the village, combines the pleasures of nature with the conveniences of a village between the Monts du Cantal and the Massif du Sancy, in an exceptional natural environment. A multitude of activities ensure an unforgettable stay.

Detached single-storey house 55 m² with shady, enclosed garden in a small hamlet in Sumène Artense. Uninterrupted view of the Cantal mountains. Living room with kitchenette, sofa bed and fireplace (wood provided), 2 bedrooms (2 x 140 cm beds and 1 x 90 cm bed), shower room with WC. Electric heating, dishwasher, washing machine, television, microwave, freezer, garden furniture, barbecue...

House in the woods, in the heart of the lakes, between Puy de Sancy and Puy Mary. Relaxation guaranteed. Lovers of nature, hiking, fishing, skiing, Auvergne gastronomy... It's the ideal place. Wake up in the company of deer, martens and squirrels, with only the sound of birdsong or the distant bells of Salers cows. The property is located on the edge of a forest, 15 minutes from all amenities. The exterior is very peaceful, with a dining and relaxation area, a brazier, board games and outdoor games. 3 bedrooms (1 with en-suite shower room), fully equipped kitchen, bathroom, 2-settee living room with 180° view of the forest, 1 veranda with dining table, the feeling of being outside, even in winter, but warm! 2 terraces, private parking. Not overlooked. Wood (stove) + electric heating.

Luxury gîte for 8 to 10 people. All comforts on 1 hectare of land surrounded by forests and set in the owner's Auvergne farmhouse. This tastefully renovated gîte is located in the Parc Naturel Régional des Volcans d'Auvergne, with a magical panoramic view of the Sancy massif and close to Lac de Lastioulles, which has been awarded the "Pavillon bleu" label (equipped beach, supervised swimming in July and August). Living room with fully-equipped kitchen, dining room, sitting area with TV, WIFI, library, board games. -2 bedrooms, each with 2 boxspring beds, shower and washbasin. -2 bedrooms with 2 boxspring beds each, using the large bathroom with oval bathtub, shower and two washbasins. This room has 4 additional beds and a cot. -Washrooms and two toilets. -3 terraces equipped with outdoor furniture. -Heated swimming pool surrounded by a deck and adapted furniture as well as changing room, heated shower, washbasin, WC and heated outdoor shower. -Washing machine, dryer and barbecue on request. -private parking Minimum stay 7 days from Saturday to Saturday (less than 7 days on request).

Barn converted into a very attractive home with glass roof bringing exceptional light to all 3 levels. Very pleasant for family relaxation, equipped kitchen, 4 bedrooms. 1 bathroom, living room with TV and enclosed grounds. Between Dordogne and Monts du Cantal, detached character house dating from 1880, renovated in 2008. Living room - kitchenette - 3 bedrooms (1 bed 160x200) - mezzanine (2 single beds - relaxation area) - shower room with WC - bathroom - separate WC - electric heating - free wood-burning stove - 2 TVs - DVD - cell phone - courtyard - enclosed grounds - beds made up on arrival - household linen provided - baby equipment. Shops in Saignes 5 km - Bort-les-Orgues 6 km - Mauriac 28 km - Green trail on site (bikes, rollerblades) 600 m away, free access to indoor pool shared with other rentals.

Small Gothic-style church. Year of construction: 12th century. Listed as a historical monument in 1969. Located in the hamlet of Salsignac, in the commune of Antignac, the chapel officially known as the Church of Saint-Ferréol of Salsignac (also called the "Chapel of Our Lady of Good Help of Salsignac") is a fine example of a small religious building blending Romanesque art with later alterations. The building dates back to the Romanesque period: the initial construction is dated to the 12th century for the nave and apse. It underwent a Gothic reconstruction between 1469 and 1496. The plan is that of a rectangular nave extended by a five-sided chancel, typical of Gothic alterations. The original Romanesque apse is still visible through the bases of engaged columns and the 12th-century masonry. The bell gable (with a single opening) houses a bell dated 1657. Inside, a radiating rib vault adorns the chancel, with a keystone bearing the Balzac family coat of arms. Materials: dressed stone with Romanesque elements, rubble and gneiss in the later sections. Visit and access: self-guided tours available; keys can be collected from the Antignac town hall (04 71 40 21 16).

The Col d’Aulac, situated at 1220 metres, passes from the Mars valley to the Trizac plateau. Beautiful view of the Cantal mountains.

Gothic-style church. Year of construction: 12th century. Listed as a historical monument in 1963. The church dates from the 12th century and was remodeled until the 15th century. It was the site of a priory of Benedictine nuns. In 1794, during the French Revolution, the bell tower collapsed, and the statues and liturgical objects were destroyed. The current bell tower bears the date 1822, attesting to a post-revolutionary reconstruction. It is a beautiful mixed-style building: the porch is Romanesque, while the chancel and chapels are in the Gothic style. The construction is primarily of volcanic stone typical of the region. The sacristy contains the remains of a "refractory" priest who was slated for canonization. The church roof was restored in the 2000s, and the building is particularly appreciated for its acoustics, which are well-suited for concerts. In the Romanesque nave, ancient capitals remain, some reused in the Gothic chancel. The apse and side chapels feature pointed Gothic vaults. A Romanesque baptismal font is also present. The liturgical furnishings include, in particular, ancient pieces linked to the priory. The church is located in the heart of the hamlet of Chastel-Marlhac, itself situated on a basalt plateau emblematic of the region. This plateau, in the commune of Le Monteil, is formed of basalt from ancient lava flows. Its steep cliffs, basalt columns, and dry grasslands offer a striking landscape. Inhabited since antiquity, it preserves the remains of a Gallic oppidum and a Roman stronghold, testifying to its strategic importance throughout the ages. Visit and access: self-guided visits possible, collect the keys at the Monteil town hall (04 71 40 64 02)

Le Vaulmier is a commune of 17.51 km² with just 69 inhabitants. Nestled, as its name suggests, in the "middle of the valley", the glacial Mars valley to be precise, it proposes many short and long hiking trails. Le Vaulmier is a commune of 17.51 km² with just 69 inhabitants. Nestled, as its name suggests, in the "middle of the valley", the glacial Mars valley to be precise, it proposes many short and long hiking trails. In the valley, you'll find the remains of many mills, including the renovated Fanchette mill, while on the plateau, the panoramic view from the Col d'Aulac is simply indescribable.... In terms of heritage, the town is not to be outdone: the church of Notre-Dame de l'Assomption contains a 12th-century Limousin enamel shrine, and a number of opulent houses in a distinctive architectural style bear witness to the economic success of those who left the Mars valley to make their fortunes in the Paris region (scrap metal sales and "bistros").

Romanesque style church. Year of construction: 12th century. Listed as a historical monument in 1976 (partially) and in 2019 (entirely). The Church of Saint-Pierre-aux-Liens, formerly the Chapel of Saint-Victor, is the parish church of Antignac. Its origins date back to the 12th century, when the chancel was built as part of a priory dependent on La Chaise-Dieu. Over the centuries, the building has been remodeled: side chapels were added in the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1789, the original bell gable was replaced by a new bell tower. The nave was extensively modified in the 18th century and then decorated in the 19th century: painted wainscoting was installed, and stained-glass windows were created between 1870 and 1880 by the master glassmaker Chamrobert. The chancel, typically Romanesque, consists of a semicircular apse with a vaulted ceiling, bordered by an arcade supported by columns and capitals. The medieval side chapels have barrel vaults, while the later chapels (18th century) have groin vaults. The nave is covered by rustic painted paneling, forming a false barrel vault; the planks are decorated with a blue background on which appears a symbolic eye within a triangle, surrounded by cherubs and the four Evangelists in the corners. The building is constructed of volcanic stones (trachyte, tufa), gneiss, and rubble, typical of the local heritage. Visit and access: self-guided tours are possible; collect the keys from the Antignac town hall (04 71 40 21 16).

Romanesque style chapel. Years of construction: 11th - 12th century. Classified as a historical monument in 1930. Site classified as national heritage. Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Sumène Valley, the Notre-Dame du Roc-Vignonnet chapel is one of the jewels of the Cantal region's Romanesque heritage. Located near the hamlet of Vignonnet, it offers a breathtaking panorama of the Antignac countryside and the surrounding hills. The chapel bears witness to the Romanesque craftsmanship of the Auvergne region: a remarkable apse composed of three semicircular apses, walls built of local stone (volcanic tufa, gneiss rubble, trachyte), and beautiful capitals sculpted with plant and animal motifs. Long neglected, it underwent significant restoration in the early 2000s. Visit and access: The climb to the chapel from the hamlet is a short walk that rewards visitors with a peaceful setting and a spectacular view. Isolated, modest, and harmoniously integrated into its rocky outcrop, the Roc-Vignonnet chapel is a place that is both spiritual and contemplative, offering a wonderful testament to the rural heritage of the Auvergne region. Self-guided visits are possible; keys can be collected from the Antignac town hall (04 71 40 21 16).

Magnificent views over the village of Antignac and the Roc Vignonnet chapel, accessible by heading (from Antignac) towards the Moulin de Sauronnet or via the PR 15 hike: Le rocher d'Agayrou. Be careful, it's a climb!

The Maison de la Minéralogie is a small private museum, created by a mineralogy enthusiast, dedicated to the variety and diversity of minerals in the Massif Central. The collection includes around a thousand samples, most of which were discovered by the founder. If you're curious about what lies beneath your feet and want to learn more about the Earth's riches, this is the place for you.

Two viewpoints offer panoramic views. Discover the plateau on the PR trail: La table basaltique de Chastel. A veritable citadel of lava! From a geological point of view, its origin is uncertain: it is either an ancient lake of hardened lava (a paléolac), a mound detached by erosion from the neighbouring planèze or an ancient lava flow. Naturally defended by high basalt cliffs, this plateau has always attracted man. Archaeological discoveries testify to a Celtic presence, then to a Gallic oppidum that became a Roman stronghold.

Romanesque church. Year of construction: 12th century. Classified as a historical monument in 1930. The Church of Saint-Maurice-et-Saint-Louis in Vebret is a true treasure of the Cantal region's Romanesque heritage. Its origins date back to the 12th century, and it is mentioned in a charter attributed to Clovis. Frequently remodeled over the centuries, two side chapels were added to the church, notably in the 15th century. The church is built in the Auvergne Romanesque style, with volcanic tufa stone on its west facade. The bell tower is a truncated pyramid-shaped bell gable, with three openings for the bells. The roof is traditional, covered with slate tiles, and buttresses support the structure. Restorations carried out from 1997 onwards revealed painted decoration, some motifs of which date back to the Romanesque period. In the barrel-vaulted nave, the transverse arches rest on columns with sculpted capitals. One of the church's treasures is a monumental polychrome wooden Christ, nearly two meters high and wide, in a "Christ Triumphant" style. The furnishings include a 17th-century pulpit, a wooden baptismal font, and statues of saints (Saint Louis, Saint Maurice, etc.). There is also a reliquary-monstrance of Saint Louis, an object of significant heritage value. Visit and access: Self-guided tours are possible; keys can be obtained from the Vebret town hall (04 71 40 20 86).

Mountain restaurant situated at the Aulac pass overlooking the Mars valley and the Puy Mary. Traditional and home cooking with local products. Recommended by the “Guide du Routard”. Mountain restaurant situated at the Aulac pass overlooking the Mars valley and the Puy Mary. Restaurant situated near a paragliding spot and Cotteughes. Walking paths also close by. Traditional and home cooking with local products. Runs on solar power. Recommended by the “Guide du Routard”.

Hello and welcome, Marinette, Grégoire and Delphine will be delighted to welcome you. We're both lovers, lovers of food and lovers of people, and our aim is to give you a simple experience you'll remember for a long time. Good-natured and loving to entertain, we can say that this is not a job but a real passion.

Village restaurant-bar-grocery where we offer gourmet quality cuisine prepared with fresh, local, seasonal produce. A la carte menu and full menu at lunchtime on weekdays. In our small grocery store, you'll find products from the Cantalou region, as well as a few convenience goods. A friendly place with a pleasant terrace in the center of a charming village in the countryside.

Café, Brasserie, Pizzéria de la Poste located in the heart of the beautiful village of Saignes, near the church on route du Monteil. Workman's lunch every weekday, à la carte menu and pizzas in the evening, made with fresh produce. Friendly welcome.

Armegyn and Antoine offer refined cuisine, featuring local produce. Everything is homemade, including the bread and puff pastry. Lovely shaded terrace in summer. Warm dining room with wood-burning stove in winter.

Situated in an exceptional area of the Regional Park of the Auvergne volcanoes, Régine and Laurent will be happy to welcome you. You will taste the specialities as “truffade”, “patranque”, “tripoux” and beef in a calm and quiet environment. Situated in an exceptional area of the Regional Park of the Auvergne volcanoes, Régine and Laurent will be happy to welcome you. You will taste the specialities as “truffade”, “patranque”, “tripoux” and beef in a calm and quiet environment. Selected as a “valeur du parc” (local quality brand) for its authenticity. Groups welcome.

Fast food on site or to take away, home-made pizzas, desserts and ice creams made with fresh, seasonal, local and organic produce.

Located in Champs-sur-Tarentaine-Marchal, Le Saint Rémi offers authentic and generous cuisine. Open from Sunday to Friday, for lunch all year round, and for lunch and dinner in August, the restaurant offers: a daily menu at €17, served at lunchtime. A menu featuring burgers, regional dishes and our specialty: frog legs. Come and discover local flavors in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

On site or to take away, La Galinette offers pizzas and artisanal burgers, including foie gras and veal sweetbreads, made with fresh, local produce, as well as its tenderloin with blue cheese sauce, fries and salad. Drinks and desserts are also available. Don't hesitate to make a reservation. Fresh "smart pizza" and cold drinks vending machines, open 24/7.

Restaurant for up to 46 people in the dining room and 30 on the terrace, offering traditional cuisine. Bar - takeaway - caterer.

Renovated former barn, very spacious, pleasant and bright. Entrance with large reception room with inglenook fireplace, library, living room opening onto a large terrace with exceptional panoramic views. This vacation home has 7 bedrooms, a kitchen with fridge and oven, a living area with flat-screen TV and 6 bathrooms with shower.

House located in a quiet hamlet 1 km from the village where you'll find a bakery, grocery stores... 4 bedrooms (3 beds 140 + 1 double bed 90 + 1 single bed + 1 child's bed), living room, dining room, 2 bathrooms. Other shops are between 8 and 12 km away (Ydes, Bort-les-Orgues, Riom-ès-Montagnes and Champs-sur-Tarentaine). We're equidistant from the Cantal and Sancy mountains to discover the Auvergne volcanoes. Several hiking trails close to the gîte. Water sports and swimming (pool, beaches) nearby.

Communal tourist complex comprising 3 gîtes d'étapes located in the village of Vebret. It comprises 2 5-bed gîtes and 1 3-bed gîte with hot water and shower. The 3 gîtes are equipped with a kitchen with microwave oven, 2 hotplates, 1 fridge and cooking utensils. You'll have access to 2 shared bathrooms. The gîtes overlook a 3000-square-meter lawn. Bed linen and towels are not provided. All shops in Saignes 5 km, Bort-les-Orgues 10 km.

In the heart of the wilderness and lush green meadows of the Haut Cantal, come and discover our "nature" campsite and its animal garden. You'll find peace and quiet, a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere. 2-star campsite, service area + pitches. Open from April to September. Capacity: 25 pitches.

In the heart of the wilderness and lush green meadows of the Haut Cantal, come and discover our "nature" campsite and its animal garden. You'll find peace and quiet, a warm welcome and a friendly atmosphere. This small, shady family campsite breaks away from the dominant camping club model. It offers something that's accessible to as many people as possible, with no luxuries, no unnecessary comforts, no superfluous services, and all in all simplicity. It strives for the real comfort, simplicity and authenticity you're looking for in your vacations. Experience nature in a corner of paradise!

Two 18m² all-wooden chalets for four people (2 adults and 2 children) modelled on clogmaker's huts. In the 19th century, Bourbonnais peasants came to spend the winter in Artense, in the Algères forest, a little further up the Écureuil in the Rhue valley. They built a hut from branches and made clogs. First floor: living room with kitchenette, bedroom with alcove double bed in the main room, bathroom with shower, washbasin and toilet. On the mezzanine, accessible by ladder, an attic bedroom with two single beds.

In the heart of the "Dailles" region, 5 km from the village, 2 guest rooms at Le Sellier are the perfect place to recharge your batteries, a stopover at the end of the world, on the edge of nature and surrounded by animals. A kitchenette is available for meals. Breakfast and catered meals available by reservation only. Shared bathroom and WC for both rooms. We welcome riders, hikers and mountain bikers.

A winding, bucolic road leads to Marraine's home. A characterful Auvergne house (1872) welcomes nature-loving guests. This is the countryside, surrounded by meadows and cows, with a breathtaking view. On the day of your arrival, you can enjoy your first meal, a typical regional home-cooked meal using fresh local produce. There's plenty to do (mushrooming, fishing, hiking, swimming, horse-riding, country festivals, castles, arts and crafts, discovering the Cantalien terroir, gastronomy and heritage...). Rest and enjoy an unforgettable moment of relaxation at your own pace. A little cocoon of simplicity, calm and sincerity.