Discover CAMPING ILOA in Thiers, Puy-de-Dôme, Auvergne

This tour takes you on a journey through time... from Gallo-Roman times to the time of the knights! At the gateway to the cutlery town of Thiers, you leave Pont-de-Dore for Lezoux and its Ceramics Museum, which traces the history of ceramics production back to Gallo-Roman times. A pleasant, often shady drive takes you to Ravel and its magnificent château with its terrace designed by Le Nôtre. You'll then pass through Billom, a famous medieval town. Then on to the Château de Mauzun, a 13th-century fortress often referred to as the Giant of Auvergne. Approx. 3 hrs 55 min, average speed 20 km/h.

Traced around Thiers, on the edge of Grande Limagne and the Bois Noirs massif, this route passes through hamlets of adobe houses and orchards. It is punctuated by lovely views of châteaux, the Comté and the mountains.

An emblematic route of the Livradois-Forez region, it traverses landscapes of valleys and volcanic peaks, but also traces the history of the town's cutlery industry. Physical effort is quickly rewarded by exceptional views.

A circuit full of contrasts and interest that follows a river before rising to hamlets and terraces of adobe houses and barns, with beautiful panoramic views and the calvary of Sainte-Marguerite.

A pleasant stroll through meadows lined with oak and acacia trees in an open landscape offering beautiful views. Particularly noteworthy are the restored Néron adobe farmhouses and the old railway heritage of the Vichy-Darsac line.

A signposted path along the Durolle, where generations of grinders and representatives of the cutlery guild worked, has become a Mecca for industrial museology.

From Saint-Agathe and its church, we head for the ruins of the château de Montguerlhe or "Mont-guerle", the mountain from which we can watch. It was built after the feudal war between the Damas de Couzan in Forez and the Meymont d'Olliergues d'Auvergne.

This tour is particularly representative of the adobe architecture typical of the Dore valley and the Livradois and Forez foothills. In Sermentizon, many buildings, walls and ovens are built using this technique.

From Celles-sur-Durlle, a place of pagan worship since ancient times (water source), this wild, wooded circuit offers beautiful panoramic views of the Chaîne des Puys and the Château de Vaulx.

In the Forez region, the Grün de Chignore mountain is dominated by the Pic de Chignore (1,074 m), from which you can see the Limagne plain and the volcanoes of the Monts Dôme and Monts Dore. Woodland crossings and open paths punctuate the hike.

Located in the emblematic Vallée des Usines site in Thiers, Le Creux de l'Enfer is spread over two exceptional industrial buildings above the Durolle River. For more than 30 years, the art center has showcased the best of both national and international contemporary art and has invited artists to create works through immersive residencies, collaborating with local stakeholders. Through an annual program of solo and group exhibitions, a series of talks and conferences closely tied to these exhibitions, as well as outreach initiatives and special public events, the art center also aims to create the most favorable conditions for bringing art and the public together. A case in point is “Samedis d’enfer,” scheduled during each exhibition, which brings together a multitude of artistic offerings, including workshops for children, guided exhibition tours, and concerts, performances, and other public events. Drawing on a wide range of influences—spanning industry and nature, action and thought—Le Creux de l’Enfer embodies a project that is as experimental as it is accessible, as demanding as it is generous, and as cutting-edge as it is welcoming. A contemporary art center housed in the former Creux de l’Enfer cutlery factory—which closed permanently in 1956—it traces its origins to the cultural decentralization policy launched under the leadership of Jack Lang in 1985. It opened in 1988, three years after the National Symposium on Monumental Metal Sculpture, organized by the municipality of Thiers, several of whose works remain scattered throughout the city and its surroundings. Le Creux de l’Enfer is one of fifty French contemporary art centers accredited by the Ministry of Culture, modeled after the German “Kunsthallen”—spaces in which artists are deeply involved: Le Creux de l’enfer devotes its entire space to a program of temporary exhibitions (renewed twice a year) and events, developed in collaboration with guest artists. Since October 2019, it has held the designation “contemporary art center of national interest,” making it the first contemporary art center in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to receive this designation. At the helm of this “vessel” on the Durolle River is Sophie Auger-Grappin, who, after more than 20 years in the Île-de-France region, chose to leave Paris and an art center in the Yvelines for Thiers, bringing with her artistic projects of national scope for this “other capital”—the capital of cutlery. Since 2025, the Creux de l’Enfer has been renovated, expanded, and has also extended its artistic and cultural program to the May factory, connected to the Creux de l’Enfer factory by a covered walkway. Thanks to this work, a brand-new visitor route has been created, featuring new spaces open to the public (a lower hall right next to the river, an observation deck with an unmissable view of the valley, a small workshop where visitors can enjoy activities and hands-on sessions...) and an exhibition space of nearly 1,000 m². The project was managed by the Fabre/Speller architectural firm—which had previously overseen the transformation of the Creux de l’Enfer in 1988—and was further enriched by the collaboration with architect-engineer Alexandre Bagros-Murat and designer Olivier Vadrot for the furniture and interior design.

Come and relax in this beautiful wooden chalet with a 35 m2 terrace with jacuzzi and an incredible view of the surrounding countryside. Situated at less than 4km from the motorway exit ‘’Les Salles’’ (42), between the historic village of Cervierres and the village of Noiretable with its Casino game, lac and all shops near by The chalet is made using only the local wood and built by an artisan from the area who uses old methods with a respect for modern architecture The chalet is build on poles which provide an amazing view. There is 20m2 inside with all the necessary comfort, fully equipped kitchen, also made by a local manufacture and a bathroom with a shower and toilets with a modern design. You will also find a very comfortable sofa bed which you can fold during the day to optimise the space A large 3m door window will allow you to wake up in front of this incredible view. Also giving access to a 35m2 terrace which was thought to maximise your own comfort in the country side The 24 jet SPA is placed in the center, there is 2 laying space and 1 seat. Still looking at the view you will be able to get a relaxing water or air massage hoping to maybe spot some wild animal passing through the land across On one side of the terrace you will find and outdoor living area where you can relax, read a book or simply listen the birds singing. On the other side you will find a dinning space where you can enjoy your breakfast and try the local specialities while looking at the forest in this beautiful part of France This Chalet is suitable for 2 adult only

Magali offers you a serenity break in this former dairy, which she has put her heart into renovating. It guest room is located in a preserved environment just a stone's throw from the historic village of Cervières.

In the heart of Cervières, come visit a unique museum in France : the Museum-workshop of goldwork embroidery. You will discover the history and the technique of the embroiderers called "Grenadières" specific to the Haut-Forez. The goldwork embroidery has existed in the Haut-Forez territory since the 19th century. Women worked mainly for military industry and made the grenade of policemen and firemen, so they took the name of "grenadières". The industry peaked in the 50's. The embroiderers worked on embroideries for military uniform as well as civil suits or the famous academician suit. In the museum, you can admire examples of those réalisations and discover the technique of goldwork embroidery and the transmission of this skill nowadays known as an artistic profession. Each visit finishes with a show that permits to you to talk with the embroiderer and to understand its technique. You can also try by yourself!!

Heating: 0.17Euro/kW. Noirétable 13km, St-Etienne 87km. Self-contained house comprising 2 gîtes et 1 other dwelling. 36 sq. m on 1st floor. Living room, kitchen area, 1 bedroom, 1 alcove (beds: 2 single, 1 double, 1 double sofa). Shower room, electric heating. Shared washing machine et tumble drier. Car port. 300 sq. m parking space. 600 sq. m games space et tennis court shared between the gîtes.

Self-contained house comprising 2 gîtes et 1 other dwelling. 20 sq. m. on 1st floor. Living room/kitchen area, alcove (1 double bed). Shower room. Electric heating. Shared washing m/c et tumble drier. 100 sq. m. shared unfenced garden, car port. Noirétable 13km, St-Etienne 87km.

The team at the lake offers water sports activities. Stand-up paddle (we do not give lessons). We provide all equipment and safety instructions.

Welcome, Sharing and Discovery are the key words that Marjorie and Edouard offer you to experience at the Auberge de la Source. Here you can recharge your batteries and have an experience to create and tell memories. L’Auberge de la Source is a place to “be well and be well”. Also, we offer you: - The cottage with comfortable double, triple and family rooms with a total of 8 rooms and 24 beds ; - The table with family, authentic and multi-traditional cuisine made from local products allows you to discover local recipes but also go on a culinary journey. We work on unique menus per fortnight with reservations required 48 hours in advance; - A friendly space composed of a bar, darts, table football, and a mezzanine with sofa and billiards. - A grocery store selling local products promoting, among other things, our local partners; - Additional activities to discover: o Marjorie takes you to discover Japanese Raku ceramics, clay modeling and specific cooking techniques. Several workshops possible on request (jewelry, pieces). o Edouard takes you to discover deep relaxation through sound massage with Tibetan bowls and vibrational acupuncture with therapeutic tuning forks (by reservation).

Inside an old renovated farm located on the edge of the Monts du Forez and the Monts de la Madeleine, our guest rooms and our equestrian reception will delight nature and hiking lovers. A gourmet french breakfast will be served every morning. You can enjoy a quiet break in the garden or the patio. You can find nearby lot of walking path, "Les Bois Noirs" moutain bike resort ", Chalmazel, Col de la Loge and Loge des Garde ski resorts, and some cultural monuments like old castles or villages to visit.

Remains of a Benedictine abbey founded around the year 1000, the buildings have seen many vicissitudes. A flood on the Durolle destroyed the conventional buildings in 1701. However, the logis is a fine fortified building with two towers. Fortified dwelling dating from the 11th - 18th centuries. Abbey "daughter of Cluny". Beautiful 18th-century decor and furnishings. Classical walled garden. Member of the federation of Cluniac sites and the historic route of Auvergne castles.

The Romanesque church of Saint Symphorien du Moûtier, once part of the Cluny order, has stood for over a thousand years. It has been restored and illuminated at night. Its capitals, its polychromy of red, yellow and gray ochres, its 15th-century Christ on the Cross and the painting of Louis XIII's vow are remarkable. Facing the Orangerie garden and the Logis abbatial, it is a gateway to the Vallée des usines tourist trail. Open all year round.

The museum retraces the 600-year history of knife-making heritage. Workshops, knife-making demonstration, sound and light, shop. At the Cutlery Museum in Thiers, visitors can explore six centuries of heritage with global influence. The rich collection features works from French and international cutlery centers, dating from the 16th century to the present day. It’s an invitation to discover the evolution of the knife, the elegance of tableware, and the modernization of designs and manufacturing techniques. It’s also a unique opportunity to marvel at fine cutlery pieces crafted entirely from mother-of-pearl, ivory, and gold. In the museum’s workshops, master cutlers—ambassadors of traditional craftsmanship—demonstrate the key stages of knife-making. Right before your eyes, they craft the high-end knives and artistic knives sold in the museum shop. Please note that Rue de la Coutellerie, located between the two sections of the museum, is currently closed. Signage has been put in place to guide you through a two-part tour of the Cutlery Museum! A truly unique museum experience!

The church, lit up at night, is located in the heart of the medieval quarter in the upper town. The Romanesque collegiate church of Saint Genès was built in memory of a young martyr from the 3rd century. The story of his burial site is told by Grégoire de Tour. The church was rebuilt by Guy II, Lord of Thiers, in 1016. Its 102 m² dome is the largest in Auvergne. The apse features a mural of Christ in Majesty. The beautifully crafted monumental organ dates from 1853. The stalls are sculpted with evocative misericords.

Located in the emblematic Vallée des Usines site in Thiers, Le Creux de l'Enfer is spread over two exceptional industrial buildings above the Durolle River. For more than 30 years, the art center has showcased the best of both national and international contemporary art and has invited artists to create works through immersive residencies, collaborating with local stakeholders. Through an annual program of solo and group exhibitions, a series of talks and conferences closely tied to these exhibitions, as well as outreach initiatives and special public events, the art center also aims to create the most favorable conditions for bringing art and the public together. A case in point is “Samedis d’enfer,” scheduled during each exhibition, which brings together a multitude of artistic offerings, including workshops for children, guided exhibition tours, and concerts, performances, and other public events. Drawing on a wide range of influences—spanning industry and nature, action and thought—Le Creux de l’Enfer embodies a project that is as experimental as it is accessible, as demanding as it is generous, and as cutting-edge as it is welcoming. A contemporary art center housed in the former Creux de l’Enfer cutlery factory—which closed permanently in 1956—it traces its origins to the cultural decentralization policy launched under the leadership of Jack Lang in 1985. It opened in 1988, three years after the National Symposium on Monumental Metal Sculpture, organized by the municipality of Thiers, several of whose works remain scattered throughout the city and its surroundings. Le Creux de l’Enfer is one of fifty French contemporary art centers accredited by the Ministry of Culture, modeled after the German “Kunsthallen”—spaces in which artists are deeply involved: Le Creux de l’enfer devotes its entire space to a program of temporary exhibitions (renewed twice a year) and events, developed in collaboration with guest artists. Since October 2019, it has held the designation “contemporary art center of national interest,” making it the first contemporary art center in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to receive this designation. At the helm of this “vessel” on the Durolle River is Sophie Auger-Grappin, who, after more than 20 years in the Île-de-France region, chose to leave Paris and an art center in the Yvelines for Thiers, bringing with her artistic projects of national scope for this “other capital”—the capital of cutlery. Since 2025, the Creux de l’Enfer has been renovated, expanded, and has also extended its artistic and cultural program to the May factory, connected to the Creux de l’Enfer factory by a covered walkway. Thanks to this work, a brand-new visitor route has been created, featuring new spaces open to the public (a lower hall right next to the river, an observation deck with an unmissable view of the valley, a small workshop where visitors can enjoy activities and hands-on sessions...) and an exhibition space of nearly 1,000 m². The project was managed by the Fabre/Speller architectural firm—which had previously overseen the transformation of the Creux de l’Enfer in 1988—and was further enriched by the collaboration with architect-engineer Alexandre Bagros-Murat and designer Olivier Vadrot for the furniture and interior design.

The May factory is a former knife making factory. A dedicated space for cooperatives ensuring sustainable development of the Factory Valley, it opens its doors to the public for exhibitions, shows and other cultural events. A dedicated space for cooperatives ensuring sustainable development of the Valley des Usines, it opens its doors to the public for exhibitions, shows and other cultural events.

The walking routes along the banks of the Durolle river lead you to the old mills. Discover the workers’ conditions through the remains of the workshops called “rouets” (spinning wheels), where the grinders shaped knife blades. The footpaths along the banks of the Durolle take you to the old mills. In these workshops, known as rouets, grinders used sandstone millstones to shape knife blades. In the last working rouet, "chez Lyonnet", come and watch the wheel turn, hear the belts click and discover the working conditions of the grinders. Average length of visit: 45 min. guided tour + 30 min. self-guided tour. For a comfortable visit, walking shoes are strongly recommended.

Some fifteen kilometers downstream from the Bec de Dore ENS, the Allier valley from Joze to Maringues is one of the most interesting areas of the Puy-de-Dôme in terms of river dynamics and natural environments. This is one of the most interesting sectors of the Puy-de-Dôme department, where river dynamics and interesting natural environments still exist, but it is also one of the most complex to manage due to the presence of certain micro-parcel developments and the multiplicity of stakeholders. The Allier axis is a corridor of refuge for remarkable flora and fauna in the face of the vast expanses of cultivated land along its banks. An area of unprecedented richness, populated by hundreds of species of saproxilophagous insects (which feed on dead wood), which in turn feast on fish and birds such as the kingfisher, while a beautiful heron waddles along the riverbank. The vegetation is not to be outdone, and the place remains truly enchanting, with a veritable symphony of colors. And as a bonus, volcanoes can be seen on the horizon. The main outstanding natural habitats are : - natural eutrophic lakes (duckweed communities), - annual vegetation of exposed riverbanks (pioneer communities of wet mudflats), - pioneer lawns on rock domes (sedum lawn), - a residual alluvial forest (salix abla willow grove), - and a mixed forest of large rivers (Quercus robur alluvial oak grove). The main species of note are : - Purple loosestrife, Micheli nutsedge, smooth elm, - Atlantic salmon, pike, shad, sea lamprey, - European otter, European beaver - European beaver, great murin, eared vespertilion, - kingfisher, black-crowned night heron, bank swallows, common tern, - agrion mignon, dwarf agrion, marsh copper... The site, and more broadly the Allier axis, is considered a "refuge" or "green and blue corridor" through which remarkable flora and fauna pass.

Located at an altitude of 1100m, the restaurant of Notre Dame de l'Hermitage welcomes you to a peaceful and mystical place. After enjoying a cuisine with Malagasy origins, you can enjoy the surroundings which offer panoramas and walks.

In a friendly setting, the inn offers you a traditional cuisine based on local products and mainly organic, pizza as well as a weekday menu. All dishes can be taken away.

Homemade cuisine prepared with fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Weekday workers’ lunch menu (Monday to Friday), snacks served throughout the day, and takeaway service. Guest rooms and holiday cottage with meals available by reservation for gu Welcome to Les Trois Temps, a warm and welcoming place where authenticity, great food, and hospitality are at the heart of everything we do. Our cuisine is entirely homemade, prepared using fresh, seasonal ingredients while giving priority to local producers and suppliers. Our menu changes throughout the year to showcase the best of the region and offer generous, simple, and flavourful dishes. Whether you are joining us for lunch, dinner, or simply to enjoy a drink, you will always find a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. Guests staying at the hotel can also enjoy our catering service. Upon request, we are happy to prepare meals for hotel guests, including on our closing days, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay throughout their visit. Whether you are passing through, enjoying a holiday, or living in the area, Les Trois Temps invites you to discover authentic homemade cuisine, genuine hospitality, and the pleasure of sharing a memorable moment in a charming setting.

Welcome, Sharing and Discovery are the key words that Marjorie and Edouard offer you to experience at the Auberge de la Source. Here you can recharge your batteries and have an experience to create and tell memories. L’Auberge de la Source is a place to “be well and be well”. Also, we offer you: - The cottage with comfortable double, triple and family rooms with a total of 8 rooms and 24 beds ; - The table with family, authentic and multi-traditional cuisine made from local products allows you to discover local recipes but also go on a culinary journey. We work on unique menus per fortnight with reservations required 48 hours in advance; - A friendly space composed of a bar, darts, table football, and a mezzanine with sofa and billiards. - A grocery store selling local products promoting, among other things, our local partners; - Additional activities to discover: o Marjorie takes you to discover Japanese Raku ceramics, clay modeling and specific cooking techniques. Several workshops possible on request (jewelry, pieces). o Edouard takes you to discover deep relaxation through sound massage with Tibetan bowls and vibrational acupuncture with therapeutic tuning forks (by reservation).

Auberge specialised in festive weekends, weddings, birthdays up to 110 covers. Beautiful covered terrace for aperitifs and large wooded park for receptions.

Traditionnal meals with a touch of finess and delicacy. Country inn the weekdays (calf's head, pork trotter, pâté...) and restaurant for the week end.

Catering based on local products, burger with tomme, fourme, saint nectaire or entrecote accompanied by a salad and chips, salad, cheese, aperitif platters. On reservation only.

"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!"

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

Restaurant and much more: groceries, bread, local products, newspapers, gas bottles and items for the garden.

Notre Dame de l'Hermitage seems to stay up the canton. Its privileged position offers a rare panorama, of numerous paths and invite you to practice hiking. . Collective accommodation at an altitude of 1110 m, a place of conviviality and serenity.

The gîte features a lounge and living room with fitted kitchen. Separate entrance. Patio and access to the garden, not overlooked. Parking space outside the gîte.

Come and relax in this beautiful wooden chalet with a 35 m2 terrace with jacuzzi and an incredible view of the surrounding countryside. Situated at less than 4km from the motorway exit ‘’Les Salles’’ (42), between the historic village of Cervierres and the village of Noiretable with its Casino game, lac and all shops near by The chalet is made using only the local wood and built by an artisan from the area who uses old methods with a respect for modern architecture The chalet is build on poles which provide an amazing view. There is 20m2 inside with all the necessary comfort, fully equipped kitchen, also made by a local manufacture and a bathroom with a shower and toilets with a modern design. You will also find a very comfortable sofa bed which you can fold during the day to optimise the space A large 3m door window will allow you to wake up in front of this incredible view. Also giving access to a 35m2 terrace which was thought to maximise your own comfort in the country side The 24 jet SPA is placed in the center, there is 2 laying space and 1 seat. Still looking at the view you will be able to get a relaxing water or air massage hoping to maybe spot some wild animal passing through the land across On one side of the terrace you will find and outdoor living area where you can relax, read a book or simply listen the birds singing. On the other side you will find a dinning space where you can enjoy your breakfast and try the local specialities while looking at the forest in this beautiful part of France This Chalet is suitable for 2 adult only

Magali offers you a serenity break in this former dairy, which she has put her heart into renovating. It guest room is located in a preserved environment just a stone's throw from the historic village of Cervières.

Charming stone house in a garden with trees, located in the mountains (elevation 900 metres) above a historic village.

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.

At an altitude of 1100 m, in the Hauts Monts du Forez, independent house with 2 cottages and 1 apartment with a common open ground of 100 m². Noirétable 13 km.

Heating: 0.17Euro/kW. Noirétable 13km, St-Etienne 87km. Self-contained house comprising 2 gîtes et 1 other dwelling. 36 sq. m on 1st floor. Living room, kitchen area, 1 bedroom, 1 alcove (beds: 2 single, 1 double, 1 double sofa). Shower room, electric heating. Shared washing machine et tumble drier. Car port. 300 sq. m parking space. 600 sq. m games space et tennis court shared between the gîtes.

Self-contained house comprising 2 gîtes et 1 other dwelling. 20 sq. m. on 1st floor. Living room/kitchen area, alcove (1 double bed). Shower room. Electric heating. Shared washing m/c et tumble drier. 100 sq. m. shared unfenced garden, car port. Noirétable 13km, St-Etienne 87km.

Specialized in welcoming horsemen with meadows, saddlery and horse food. Ranging from the matrimonial bedroom to the familial room or the dormitory. Motorbike shelter.