Gorges de la Monne

The Gorges de la Monne, located between Olloix and Cournols, are a truly wild and cool place to wander and discover preserved flora and fauna.
A small, torrential river, the Monne rises in the Monts Dore at an altitude of 1,300m, near the Col de la Croix Morand. It joins the Veyre near Tallende, before ending its course in the Allier.

Classified and protected since 1979, the remarkable natural site of the Gorges de la Monne, only accessible from the communes of Olloix and Cournols, is also classified as a "Natura 2000 Zone", as much for the quality of its landscapes as for its wealth of flora and fauna.

Oak, ash and maple populate the wooded slopes of the gorge, where rocky outcrops mingle with more open environments. Among 7 protected flowers, you can admire the Yellow Gage and Willow-leaved Helianthemum, the rare Red Cephalanthemum and the Martagon Lily.

Along steep paths, lucky hikers may catch a glimpse of one of the gorges' inhabitants. Otters, polecats and red squirrels share their kingdom with eagle owls and horned warblers. Corn quail and hoopoes are not to be outdone in the orchestra ringing out in the middle of this wilderness.

On the Ribeyrolles bridge, in front of the waterfall or on a rocky outcrop, take time to listen to the river.