Discover Ambert at Camping La Vallée Verte

This tour lets you discover the skills and know-how of the Livradois region around the theme of water and nature. Leaving Ambert and its round town hall behind, you'll make your way up to the Richard de Bas mill, where paper is still being made using ancient methods and equipment that has hardly changed in centuries. You then reach Arlanc, a sedimentary basin between the Dore and Dolore rivers. Take a break at the Garden for the Earth, where you can discover thousands of plant species from all over the world. Finally, you'll head up the Dolore valley, between meadows and woods, passing through Saint-Bonnet-le-Chastel, where you can discover the remains of a castle. Approx. 3 hrs. 25 min. at an average speed of 20 km/h.

Alongside the cutlery industry in the Thiers basin, paper production in Ambert forged the Livradois-Forez region. Spinning wheels are ubiquitous, and it's easy to imagine all the mechanisms put in place to harness the power of water.

A lovely walk in the hushed atmosphere of magnificent forests of fir, beech, maple and hazel. Old farmhouses and mills add interest to the subtle interplay of light and shadow in these beautiful beech-fir forests.

A circuit with wide forest paths and a few more invigorating sections, where you'll discover old mills along the Escures stream. You'll dominate the Ambert plain, with beautiful views of the Forez mountains.

From Valcivières to La Forie, a beautifully restored village, this wooded trail offers beautiful views over the Ambert plain and links the heights of Valcivières with the Dore valley.

A country circuit through woods, streams and more open spaces, with lovely views over the Ambert plain and the Livradois mountains.

This circuit, in the foothills of the Forez crests, offers easy access to a glacial valley. Forests, fountains, pastures (we're in an area where fourme d'Ambert cheese is produced) and the Billeyre stream punctuate this walk.

A peaceful loop in the land of the "Lèches beurriers": the bon vivants of Monestier, home of Henry Pourrat. At the top of the village, the Rocher de la Vierge offers a panoramic view of the valley, the Forez mountains and an orientation table.

A forest walk with numerous viewpoints over the Forez mountains, the Dore valley and the Hautes Chaumes moors. Boutonnargues, with its castle, was once a large seigneury dominating the valley and the many mills on the Dore.

In the heart of the Monts du Forez, this trail takes hikers to the Col des Pradeaux, a strategic starting point for hikes and mountain bike rides. Near Ambert, you can contemplate its plain from wide plateaus.

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

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

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

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

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. ✨

Come discover the traditional methods of manufacturing of the Fourme de Montbrison (the Montbrison round cheese) Pont de la Pierre. Free tasting and sale in the shop. Visit of the manufacturing laboratory from an observation gallery.

Let’s discover the traditional making of roasted rapeseed, walnut or hazelnut oil. With this sensory visit, you will keep an unforgettable memory. Discover the “Treasure of the mill” during an outdoor escape game.

Located in the Forez massif above Chazelles-sur-Lavieu, in a lovely woodland setting overlooking the Forez plain, the Acr’Oforez park features a number of attractions that you can combine with the activities of Game’Oforez.

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

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

This museum features a display highlighting the different types of energy used by humankind. Local know-how is put in the spotlight in the area dedicated to the twining and rosary industries Housed in premises typical of early 20th-century brick architecture, MUS'ENERGIE, the museum of motive power and energy for mankind, takes visitors on a journey through the diverse worlds of science and technology. Covering almost 1,200 m², the exhibited and partly animated collections form a remarkable whole. Firstly, the museum presents a collection of steam engines which, in their time, revolutionized work in workshops and in the countryside. The second hall features a tour highlighting the different types of energy used by mankind. Finally, the weavers' workshop and the rosary room illustrate local know-how. Labels: Aurhalpin heritage, RéMut network, Route des Métiers en Livradois-Forez

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

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

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

The Hautes Chaumes is a protected natural site of vast rolling high-altitude plateaux (above 1,400m) on the upper slopes of the Monts du Forez mountains. Your ideal starting point for many a hiking trail! Human occupation can be traced back a long way, as witnessed by the jasserie chalets where fourme de Montbrison cheese was made. A rich diversity of flora and fauna: peat bogs, heathland and mountain pasture, bilberries, sundew...

St Anthème has a long history, dotted with influential figures: from the monks of Manglieu to the Lords of La Roue... A one-hour tour and shorter side-tours will help you discover the hidden treasures of the village of St Anthème and its history from the year 1000 to the present day.

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

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

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

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

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.

"In the heart of the village, the Coin des Ecureuils serves authentic dishes made from fresh local ingredients. Prior reservation compulsory."

Here you will find a very friendly atmosphere and many different specialities, such as Forez salad, Forez patia (baked potatoes in cream), Montbrison cheese soufflé ... and a large choice of homemade desserts. In Sauvain, the Sauvagnard welcomes you into a very friendly setting. With prior booking, you'll discover many specialities such as ham cooked on the bone, guinea-fowl with cabbage, Forez Patia, fourme soufflé, calf's head with vinaigrette, frogs provençal and a large choice of homemade desserts.

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.

In the village of Gumières, we welcome you to a rustic and very pleasant setting to enjoy our traditional cuisine with its regional specialities. Menu of the day 10.50 €

In a unique setting, students demonstrate their culinary expertise and table-service skills. Please phone ahead for group bookings. Set menus available on our website.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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