Discover the charms of Bansat, Puy-de-Dôme, Auvergne

A charming hike that starts from Saint-Martin-des-Plains to meander through cereal plains dotted with small hills. We enjoy beautiful views of the Livradois-Forez and the foothills of the Cézallier. Starting point - In front of the starting sign, turn left following the brook of Les Parcelles. At the road bridge continue opposite until you reach a crow's feet. 1 - Continue on the upward path (old building with dovecote), stay on this wide path (view on the Livradois) until you reach Bethel castle. 2 - In front of the Castle, turn left, follow a power line. On the ridge (panorama on the Cézallier, the Sancy massif and the puy de Dôme) at the first road turn right and go down. At the road, turn left for 150 m until you reach the entrance of a road. 3 - Take it and at the stop sign, continue on the right by a long descent. At the entrance of a bend, leave the road for the right path, climb to reach a road, follow it from the left on a grassy shoulder (220 m). After the property of Grange-Fort cut the road, turn right, continue straight ahead forgetting the paths on either side. Pass near a village (Les Pradeaux). Cut a tarred path, continue until you reach a road. Cross it, take the first bridge on the left, walk along the picnic area and take the first road on the left. At the power line, turn right, cut the road and continue straight ahead until you reach (the old tile factory). 4 - Go up to the right on the plateau (360° panoramic view). At a T-intersection, turn left (reedbeds). At the next crossroads, go to the right, progress on the balcony path, cut a small asphalt road, turn left and go down to the right on the wide path that leads to the village. Back to the starting point.

The old parish of Mailhat is a historic monument (1859) and its church built on a Gallo-Roman temple by the monks of Sauxillanges at the end of the 12th century in an elegant and ornate style that contrasts with the severity of the Romanesque style of the Auvergne region. Starting point - From the starting sign, join the D123, take it on the right and then go up on the left the Chemin de la Fontaine. At the fork, turn right and continue upwards, leaving a path on the left (view of Nonette, the Sancy massif, the Cézallier, the Livradois). At the top of the hill, take the left track for 100 m then turn right and continue towards the church of Mailhat. Go through the village to the 12th century Romanesque church, continue until you leave the village. 1 - At the intersection with the D123A, turn right on it for 350 m and then take a road on the left until you reach the road. Turn right to Lamontgie. Enter the village and go to the square. 2 - Take the direction of Auzat, pass in front of the church and 50 m after the town hall, turn into the first street on the right which turns into a path. At the crossroads after the power line, turn left. At the cross of Plantiers, turn right and continue straight ahead until you reach a crossroads. 3 - Go down to the left and at the first intersection turn right. Continue until you reach a crossroads of 5 paths, take the one on the right towards Orsonnette. At the next intersection, go left and then immediately right. After the cemetery, continue to the right to reach the starting point.

Usson, a perched village, its church, its basalt columns and its peak feed the curiosity of hikers. The panoramas of the Mont Dore and the Puys chain are no less remarkable. Starting point - From the starting sign, at the bus shelter after the Town Hall, turn right towards the fairground. Go on rue H. Pourrat on the right. At the next intersection turn left, then take the second street on the right, rue des vignerons. Turn right at the first street (at the bottom of the stairs), then turn left at the next street, rue au Chanvre. Continue to the left across the Place de l'Ormeau and then take the Varennes road. Turn right into rue de la Forge. Go around the church on the right by the rue de la Reine Margot, 100 m further on the right, then on the left until the crossroads with the D123. 1 - Cross this crossing towards Usson, go up the first grassy road on the right. At the T-junction, go to the right, take the path along a coppice forest, then go up between fields, facing the peak of Usson, to a first house (view on the Cézallier and the Sancy massif). 2 - Go to the right, cross the hamlet; at the end of the street, go to the left. At the exit, go around a hangar and turn right onto a balcony path. At the first fork, continue to the left. In front of the castle turn right and then walk along a property (Bois Rigaud, 17th century). Turn left three times and reach a road. 3 - Cross the road and pass in front of the transformer and head towards the village of Usson. Facing the cross and the fountain, go to the right. At the perimeter wall, go under the porch, then left (picnic area). Follow the small road passing between the houses. At the sight of the cross, take the path to the right and reach the top of the village of Usson (at the water tower, beautiful basalt organs). Go to the Romanesque church (panorama on the Sancy massif and the Cézallier). 4 - From the church - educational signage in enamelled lava, historical on Queen Margot - (possibility to go back and forth to the top of the site of the Virgin of Usson, 360° view), go down into the village. At the exit of Usson, turn right by the road. At the last house, continue to the left. At the crossroads turn left. In a curve, take to the left a wide stony and then grassy path to a vineyard. 5 - Go to the right on the dirt road along a very old clay wall for about 700 m, then turn right. Cut the road, go in front. At the entrance of the castle (château de la Vernède, mill), continue to the left. Back to the mill, go opposite on a grassy path to the village of Saint-Rémy-de-Chargnat.

This tour oscillates between abandoned vineyards, valleys and hills of Livradois-Forez with splendid views over all the mountains of Auvergne. We walk on the old coal mining lands of Brassac-les-Mines (12th to 19th century). Starting point - From the starting sign, walk along the square in the direction of the Saut du Loup. Turn right into rue de la Poste and then right into rue du Ruisseau. In the square, (church of the 11th-15th centuries, with Piétà) go right up the rue de la Bonne Vierge to the exit of the village. 1 - The dirt road climbs on the plateau (view on the hillock and the village of Nonette, the Cézallier, the Sancy massif and the Puys chain). Ignore the small paths on the left and right to reach and cross the D214. A small asphalt road leads up to the entrance to Aubiat. Continue straight ahead along the Esteil road until you leave the village. 2 - The path then rises, on the right, on the hillside (view on the valley of the Allier, La Combelle and the Lembron). We join a path in a clearing. Go up to the right, ignore the small paths on the left and right to lead to a flat area (view on the first foothills of the Livradois). At the intersection, at the entrance to Esteil, continue straight ahead, turn left and then right. Walk past the church (former priory and remains of the cloister), continue under a porch and join the road to Jumeaux. Leave this road before leaving the village by a street on the right leading back to the intersection at the entrance of the village. Continue on the left until you reach the Croix d'Auzat. 3 - Make a 5-minute round trip to a small building at the top of the hill (view of the hills of the County, the Puys mountain range, the Issoire basin, the Sancy massif and the Cantal mountains). From the Croix d'Auzat, go down the path and at the next fork, turn right and then turn left. Go down ignoring the small paths to the left and right until you reach the D34. Follow it on the right for a few meters, then take the path on the left which passes next to the stadium of Auzat-sur-Allier to reach the starting point.

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.

Usson, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, was strongly influenced by Queen Margot, who stayed there for a long time. From the summit, you can enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the Puys mountain range, the Sancy massif and the Livradois-Forez mountains. Starting point - Facing the starting sign, go to the right. Climb a few steps, take the path in the park, then the stairs. In the village, facing a wall, turn left (direction historical centre) and go down the rue des Condamines. Pass the Tourist Information Point and turn right into rue de la Mairie. Continue straight ahead and turn left into rue de l'Église Saint Maurice. Go to the square in front of it. 1 - Turn right, go past the War Memorial and then go up immediately to the left (chicane and stone steps). Continue on this landscaped path up to the top of the hill (statue of the Virgin Mary, 360° view: Livradois-Forez, Margeride, Chaîne du Sancy et des Dômes). 2 - Go down on the other side of the hill by the path that starts with basalt stones until you reach the path used for the ascent. Go to the right and, at the stone chicane, go opposite towards a grassy area. Walk past large organs and a water tower to reach the asphalt road. 3 - Go to the left ("Tour de la butte, remparts "), go down between the houses. At the bend, take the path to the left, go up on the road (view on the Monts du Forez and Sauxillanges) and pass between the remains of the feudal castle. Go up the rue de l'Église St Maurice, go down to the right of the porch and cross the grassy square (place de Jaude). Continue opposite, turn right then left on rue de l'Echanson. Turn right and go down to the left to reach the starting point.

Nonette is an ancient winegrowing village of 300 inhabitants with a rich historical past. It is perched on a volcanic promontory offering 360-degree views. The summit of the mound rises to 578 m, 170 m above the Allier River. Starting point - From the starting point, go down towards the Place de l'Église, walk along it on the left and then take the first path on the left (chemin de ronde). After passing through the gate, cross the Parc des Horts, take the footbridge. Then keep going down to the left to pass under the footbridge. Follow the path to the last houses. 1 - Continue opposite on the grassy path, (rampart walk) (View on the Allier valley and the Puys chain) and go up to the model "Crues de l'Allier ". Continue to the road then turn left, 50 m before the starting point, under the porch. Go up the rue de France on the left and follow the "la butte" sign until the intersection after the water tower. 2 - Go up in front for a round trip by making a loop at the top (ruin of the castle and 360° view). Go down to point 2, turn left and go down the stairs to the ramparts. Take the door on the right and go back to the starting point.

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.

This tour offers panoramic views of the Forez mountains, Thiers, the Dore valley, the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy, Mauzun castle and the surrounding villages.

This itinerary located in the Val d'Allier highlights the traces of the daily life of the miners who extracted coal from the mineshafts to store it on large flat-bottomed boats sailing on the Allier and then on the Loire. Starting point - From the car park, cross the D710, go around the Communauté de Communes building on the right, go under the porch, cross the road of La Combelle and take the rue de Solignat opposite until you reach the avenue des Gueules-Noires. Take the dirt road on the left for 50 m, continue on the right and join the asphalt road, follow it on the right for 60 m and then turn left to go up on the plateau (view on the Nonette hill, the headframes and the Sancy) until a fork (leave the circuit Des Pas des Mineurs). 1 - At the cabin, go down on the left on La Combelle. At the houses, turn right until you reach the entrance of the old mine (Le puits des Graves, hot room, memorial), go down and turn left. After 80 m on the left, go up avenue du Puy-de-Dôme, turn left avenue d'Usson towards the orientation table, cross the plateau and join the road. Take the stairs on the right to the street below, turn left then 200 m (Galerie d'apprentissage des Mines. École Papillon) turn right onto rue Pelle-Fesse, leave the street on the left. At the stop sign, turn right, then turn left immediately towards the chapel, take the alley on the left, then right on avenue de la Poste. At the stop sign, cross over and leave rue de Petit-Puits on the right, take the 1st street on the right and in the housing estate turn right into rue des Grises then left into rue Descente des Grises. At the stop sign, turn right onto Avenue de Tansac and then left onto Rue du Bac towards Brassac. Continue to the left, pass under the railway and take rue de La Batellerie towards l'Allier (old footbridge). 2 - Go up on the left, turn off towards the houses, continue on the right ignoring the rue du 19 Mars 1962, turn left on rue de la Roche and follow the rue des Écoles. At the stop sign, turn right onto rue Germinal until you reach the crossroads (bus shelter) towards Bayard. Before the esplanade, go down the stairs on the right to the street below. Turn left and after the bend follow rue Marcel-Renesio until you reach the old pumping station, on the banks of the Allagnon river. 3 - Take the track to the left of the road, at the sports field, turn right, join the road and follow the Allagnon. Before the footbridge follow the path on the left along the river, continue on the wider path and join the D710, cross it. Turn right for 80 m then left and right on the road to the houses. Follow the rue des Chambettes, then the avenue d'Armois, take the first right, then the 2nd street on the left route de la Combelle. Go under the porch and get back to the starting point.

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.

From the woods of La Comté to the villages of Livradois, this route is dedicated to Queen Margot. On the way, superb panoramas and discovery of beautiful villages like Usson. The itinerary begins in Parent. Villages crossed: Yronde-et-Buron / St-Babel / Manglieu / Sugères / Sauxillanges / Usson / Brenat / Orbeil / Yronde-et-Buron / Parent.

The Parc Animalier d'Auvergne is a unique reserve for rare and endangered species, with a European reputation. Over a 45-hectare area, you can learn about biodiversity and discover almost 350 rare and endangered animals of 60 different species. Come and meet snow panthers, red pandas, wolverines, tigers, Amur panthers, takins, bears, Rothschild's giraffes, Hartmann's zebras, primates, two-toed sloths, dholes, pygmy hippos, cheetahs and, more generally, 350 rare and endangered animals! The Park is set in an exceptional natural site, where you can admire many incredible views over the Cézallier and discover the various actions put in place for animal welfare and species conservation, while visiting a site that is proving its difference on a European scale. Indeed, the Parc Animalier d'Auvergne stands out in many respects: it is the European park most involved in the conservation of rare and endangered species, with over 80% of the species it hosts being part of a European breeding program. The first park to house Thorold's deer, it also boasts Europe's largest enclosure for Amur panthers. The park was also behind the creation of Science Nature, an association dedicated to ethology, and Biodiv'Educ, another association dedicated to learning about biodiversity through new technologies. Unique mixed-use enclosures and a wide range of immersive activities enable visitors to familiarize themselves with the animals (family safaris, special encounters, vacation courses, etc.). A must-see!

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. ✨

Château de la Batisse, located in Chanonat, is classified as a Historic Monument, as is the entire estate, and is surrounded by a garden that has been awarded the "Jardin Remarquable" label. Originally built in the 13th century as a defensive tower, the Château de La Batisse became a fortified castle in the 14th century. In the 18th century, it was transformed into a true pleasure estate, which is admired today for its rich history, its remarkable architecture, and its gardens—unique in the Auvergne region. Open year-round, the castle hosts both private and professional events, all while coming alive with an inspiring cultural program. Unique exhibitions, exceptional events, and timeless experiences make the site a space for creativity and cultural transmission. Contemporary art, historical reenactments, performances, concerts, and immersive evenings invite visitors to rediscover the château in a new light. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply curious, everyone can enjoy unique experiences in the heart of this place steeped in history. Events From June 20 to August 30, 2026, set amid 19 hectares of nature and gardens designated as “Jardin Remarquable” (Remarkable Garden) and traversed by the Auzon River, the estate offers visitors a true respite of freshness and discovery. Shady woods, French-style gardens, waterfalls, orchards, a maze, wooden play structures, and art installations punctuate the visitor experience: Gallery of Auvergne portraits in the maze — Denis Pourcher Lava stone sculptures integrated into the gardens — Thierry Courtadon Floral sculptures in the Roseraie pond — Alexis Boyer “In Search of the Enlightenment”: busts of great philosophers hidden in the grove along the Allée des Cascades Summer 2026 Program Music Festival – June 20, 2026: storytelling during siesta time in the orchard, a costumed procession in the style of Napoleon III, and a free festive evening at the Moulin du Château starting at 6:30 p.m. (in partnership with Auzon Collectif), featuring concerts by local artists, food, and a friendly atmosphere. Concert Evening – July 13: concert featuring Les Frères Maulus followed by a barbecue. Guided Tours of the Château: starting July 8, Wednesdays and Sundays at 3:00 p.m. Napoleon III-themed costumed processions (afternoon): June 20, July 8, August 9 Storytelling tours (afternoon): July 8, August 5 “The Musketeers & Milady” event (July 15–August 13, every Wednesday): performances and fencing workshops.

Located on the Gergovie plateau, this new-generation museum plunges young and old alike into the Gallic War between Vercingetorix and Caesar, with archaeological artifacts and multimedia displays. More than just a visit, the Musée Archéologique de la Bataille de Gergovie offers a truly lively, interactive tour. The discovery area combines graphics, models, archaeological objects and multimedia devices, culminating in an immersive audiovisual room that plunges visitors into the heart of the famous battle between Romans and Gauls. The tour also allows visitors to explore the civilization of the Arverne oppida, understand the archaeological advances made on the Gergovie site and grasp the natural and geological history of the plateau. It offers a complete understanding of the grandiose landscapes surrounding this emblematic site.

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)

Take the direction of Saint-Martin des Plains on the road D123, and then the road D24 in direction of Bansat. This church and its priory (today disappeared) depended on the abbey-church of La Chaise-Dieu in the end of the 11th century. However, the actual building doesn’t seem to be before to the first third of the 13th century. Located at the centre of the fortified village of Bansat, the building has in all probability been fortified in the 15th century. The church, in a gothic style, is composed of a polygonal choir of the 13th century and a nave covered with a vault divided with cross-springers. She might have been constructed secondly in the 13th century-early 14th century. The nave presents capitals sculpted with vegetables, contrasting with the choir decorated with faces or masks, and with crowned people. We notice the transition between Romanesque and Gothic sculptures which slides from an imaginary world to a more realistic representation.

In the Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park, the church of Bansat is part of a village fort. Its originality lies in the fact that it was fortified, probably in the 15th century. The current building is Gothic and dates back to the 13th century for its oldest parts. The nave opens to the west by a doorway whose broken arches fall back on discreetly figured capitals. The church was raised at the end of the 15th century or the beginning of the 16th century to house a large upper chamber flanked by defensive elements, probably more dissuasive than active. On the main façade, the fortification is shown by the presence of a bretèche and the bases of two watchtowers that defended the access. The south facade of the nave can be seen from a slightly elevated position that occupies the site of the former cemetery.

Originally a castle chapel, this Romanesque church, linked to the former castle by a vaulted passageway, appears to have been built in the late 11th or early 12th century. Major restoration work was completed in 2023. Comprising a blind nave, it was enlarged and doubled, probably at the end of the 12th century, with the addition of two bays forming a Romanesque choir and forechoir. Geometric and floral decorations in the choir. Alignment of saints in the nave. The church features a fine octagonal baptismal font used for parish baptisms, bearing the shield of Seigneur Jehan Brechet (Gules, three spikes Or).

Come back on the road D722 and take the road D123 in direction of Orsonette – Lamontgie, and then the direction of Mailhat. This church (classified Historical Monument since 1859) is located on the way to Compostella and on the clunisian, cultural European itinerary. It is an old parish which depends today on the municipality of Lamontgie. Situated on a old place of worship, then on a little Gallo-roman temple became church (1900: cartulary of Sauxillanges). The actual church has been reconstructed by the monks of Sauxillanges (end of the 12th century) in an elegant and decorated style which contrasts with the regular severity of the Romanesque in Auvergne. From the original temple remain only six small columns that are used in the south porch and in the choir. The capitals and the modillions are full of flair and originality. But, if we know that some of them tell with shells that Mailhat was a step on the way to Compostella, others keep staying a mystery to solve.

The most charming of the small churches on the Issoire plain, Notre-Dame-de-Mailhat was built at the end of the 12th century, mainly in arkose, and is a favorite with Romanesque art enthusiasts for its many sculpted capitals and modillions. Preceded by a sanctuary donated to the Cluniac abbey of Sauxillanges in the 11th century, the church of Mailhat was fortified and raised in the late Middle Ages, and enlarged with side chapels in the 15th century. Listed as a Monument Historique in 1859, Notre-Dame de Mailhat has a single nave plan and a canted chevet. The exterior is richly decorated with anthropomorphic and zoomorphic heads on capitals and modillions. A man holding a purse, a fish and a woman suckling snakes flank the south door, which features Romanesque hinges and Gothic decoration. Inside, the mermaid, eagle and griffin motifs recall the influence of Antiquity during this Romanesque period. The remarkably well executed 15th-century culottes in the south chapel depict angels carrying the instruments of the Passion.

Perched on a volcanic mound and overlooked by a Virgin statue, the village of Usson offers a 360° panorama on the chain of Puy, the Sancy Mountain, the Cézallier, the Cantal mounts and those of Livradois-Forez. This village keeps the memory of Queen Margot, who has been exiled in her fortress, one of the most important of the kingdom, for 19 years. Following the salamander path, you will discover the village, and be charmed by the greatness of its basalt columns, the power of its old ramparts, the charm of its streets climbing to the church, which is surrounded by old houses, a recreated forge, wine-making houses and artists workshops. All these elements help it being listed “Most beautiful village of France”.

Usson's scenography retraces the history of the village and its ancient fortress, which once stood on the hilltop. Film projections, panels and a scale model enable visitors to discover Queen Margot, exiled to Usson from 1585 to 1605. The history of Usson from the volcanic period with the appearance of the Butte d'Usson to the present day is presented in a scenography with a model of the village in the 15th century and the ghost of Queen Margot recounting her life and in particular the period when she was exiled to Usson for 19 years, between 1585 and 1605. Largely involved in the religious and political quarrels of her time, Queen Margot was exiled to Usson by order of her brother Henri III for 19 years. Granddaughter of François 1er (whose emblem was the salamander found in Usson), daughter of Henri II and Catherine de Médicis, sister of Charles IX, wife of Henri de Navarre, future Henri IV, Marguerite de Valois, known as Queen Margot, was born in 1553. Imprisoned in the fortress of Usson in 1585 on the orders of her brother Henri III, after getting rid of her jailer the Marquis de Montboissier-Canillac, she refurbished and decorated the château and held a brilliant and spiritual court attended by the best minds of her time, welcoming writers, poets, singers and musicians, inaugurating a literary genre by writing her memoirs, giving charity to the poor (Donnerie d'Usson), and leading a pious life without neglecting her love life. After her well-negotiated marriage to Henri IV, she was able to return to Paris in 1605, where she died 10 years later.

The scenographic area : from volcanism to nowadays, discover the main events of Usson’s history, its rich heritage, its actual life, with a model of the village and the castle in the 15th century. Located at the tourist office of Usson. Phone number : 06.22.88.56.77. Complete your discovery with an enjoyable walk called “the path of Queen Margot” by following the salamander. Tour available on our website www.sejours-issoire.com section “Activities and adventure” (activités et aventures)

A hilltop village classified as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France” (France’s Most Beautiful Villages), offering a gorgeous panoramic view of the Dore and Puys mountain ranges, which served as a place of exile for Marguerite de Valois, known as Queen Margot, the wife of King Henry IV of France. At the highest point of the village, you'll find the unusual remains of a powerful fortress that disappeared in the 17th century. At the end of the 16th century, Queen Margot was imprisoned in the fortress of Usson, reputed to be "the strongest place in the kingdom" with its 20 towers and 3 walls. During your visit, follow the salamander as it leads you to the volcanic organs at the top of the peak, from where you can admire a magnificent view of the Chaîne des Puys, the Sancy, the Cézallier and the Livradois mountains (route with 7 reading tables "in the footsteps of Queen Margot").

After a short ascent beyond the church, the puy d'Usson overlooks this village, which is classified among the most beautiful in France. The views over the Cézallier, the Allier valley, the Dore mountains, Chaîne des Puys and Livradois-Forez are remarkable. On the remains of the former castle was erected in 1893 a statue 7 m high on a pedestal forming a chapel. In the village, to the right of the cemetery, follow the signs "montée à la vierge".

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.

Local and traditional restoration in the exceptional historical site of Gergovie. This restaurant offres a panoramic setting 15 minutes from Clermont-Fd. Local and traditional cuisine in an exceptional historic site and panoramic setting 15 minutes from Clermont-Fd. Enjoy our homemade pastries and ice creams in a landscaped park with children's play area and shaded terrace. For seminars or business lunches, rooms available from 8 to 40 people (U-shaped layout). 120 place settings in 3 rooms. Ample parking for coaches and cars.

In the heart of the Auvergne Volcanoes Regional Natural Park, 20 minutes from Clermont-Ferrand, the restaurant is ideally located on the beach of Lake Aydat. The chef offers traditional cuisine and a range of pizza, burger, salad and snack.

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.

"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!"

In the heart of the Cézallier, magnificent, fully restored buron. Home cooking, local produce, local meat, quality and tradition.

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.

Ecolodge in mountain village in Cournols. Construction with ecological materials and feng-shui intervention and geobiology. Fully equipped. Parking and private outdoor space. Rent by week or by night. Shops and services in Saint Amant-Tallende 7 kms. Swimming and water sports in Aydat 8 kms.

Do you love climbing? Then come and discover this 1800m² bouldering park in Vétraz-Monthoux. Large, bright spaces to discover or rediscover bouldering. For experienced climbers, try out Europe's largest indoor "psychobloc". Detailed description

This route alternates between mountain pastures and forests, and is accessible to all, making it ideal for snowshoeing and Nordic ski touring. Descriptif détaillé uk

Family-hotel and restaurant near Lake La Cassière. The inn "Between Lakes and Volcanoes" offers a nature stop for a meal or a stay.

Opening 20/03/2020 > 01/11/2020 Stay in the Volcano region of the Auvergne! In the spa town of Royat, Huttopia Royat campsite welcomes you at the foot of the Puy de Dôme in a peaceful, natural setting.

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)

Semi-detached cottage. In the Hauts Monts du Forez, independent house with 2 family gîtes and 1 collective gîte. At your disposal, 600 m² of playground and tennis area shared by the gîtes, carport, 300 m² car park. Noirétable 13 km - St-Etienne 87 km.