Haute-Loire, a destination rich in cultural, outdoor and sporting activities
Head for the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to explore the Haute-Loire during your stay. Discover impressive towns, charming picturesque villages and historic sites that tell the story of medieval times. On the menu: Le Puy-en-Velay, the Gorges de la Loire, the Mézenc plateau, the Château de Rochebaron, and much more. Here are just a few of the remarkable sites.
1) The Puy-en-Velay
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Le Puy-en-Velay is a must-see destination for your vacations or weekends in the Haute-Loire. Many travellers even choose this town as a starting point for exploring the region, especially those taking the famous Saint-Jacques de Compostelle trail.
As a city of art and history, Le Puy-en-Velay is packed with monuments to discover, including religious buildings and monuments. The most visited sites include Notre-Dame cathedral, Saint-Michel chapel, and the famous Notre-Dame de France statue. The latter is particularly noteworthy as it overlooks the town from the Rocher Corneille.
The village of Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid
With 6 restaurants for just 260 inhabitants, Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid fully deserves its status as France’s most gourmet village. This emblematic gastronomic landmark has been able to showcase the delights of its terroir thanks to the talent of its top chefs: the 3-star Régis and Jacques Marcon restaurant and the Bib gourmand La Coulemelle. Quite a feat for such a small community !
Nestled between the Velay and Vivarais regions, on the border between Haute-Loire and Haute-Ardèche, Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid seduces with the power of its revitalizing nature and the legendary reputation of its hospitality. This village is a gourmet getaway for all epicureans.
What a delight it is to stray off the beaten track to savor the subtle creations of the village’s renowned chefs, hailed by gastronomic guides, and to explore the region’s culinary treasures: charcuterie, wines, cheeses…
Nature is omnipresent on this wooded plateau, offering wild spaces, majestic trees, wild fruits (raspberries, bilberries…) and mushrooms. Every year, the latter are the focus of an exceptional event: The Mushroom Fair. This celebration brings together some 20,000 lovers of authentic flavours.
When you stop off at the Hob Fort du Pré restaurant,, you’ll be able to enjoy a breathtaking view of nature from the terrace, and savor refined dishes that live up to the promise of the Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid gastronomic experience.
3) The village of Lavaudieu
In the Haute-Loire department, the village of Lavaudieu stands out for its beauty. Voted France’s most beautiful village in the Auvergne region, it attracts photography enthusiasts with its charming, flower-filled rural landscape. Lavaudieu is a haven of peace for holidaymakers in search of tranquillity. Peace reigns supreme in this small, car-free village, which can be explored on foot through its narrow streets and golden stone houses.
4) The village of Blesle
Blesle is one of France’s most beautiful villages. As you stroll through the heart of the village, you’ll be seduced by the beautiful half-timbered houses and ancient buildings that have earned the village its nickname of “the medieval city”.
You’ll also discover stone-walled buildings, magnificently sculpted doors, and the Saint-Pierre church, distinguished by its Auvergne Romanesque style. Among Blesle’s top activities, hiking and trout fishing are a must.
5) The village of Bas-en-Basset
With the Allier River running through it, Haute-Loire boasts many towns and villages well worth a visit. When visiting Haute-Loire, don’t miss Bas-en-Basset. You’ll be charmed by the authentic, medieval atmosphere that characterizes each village. One of the region’s most famous ruins is Castle Rochebaron, one of the most beautiful castles in the Haute-Loire. This old castle perched at the top, of a rocky spur bears witness to the region’s military past.
Below, discover the must-sees and must-do’s during your stay if you decide to visit the Haute-Loire and Bas-en-Basset :
- The Castle of Rochebaron offers a breathtaking view over the entire plain and village, allowing us to admire key elements of the building such as the towers, loopholes and machicolations, or at least what remains of them.
- Saint-Thyrse church
- The Marronniers cross
- The Girard House, classified as a historical monument
Many other villages to discover, including Arlempdes, Allègre and the Baury volcano.
For more active vacations, explore the Haute-Loire through its gorges. Hiking is a must-do activity for the whole family, whether on foot or mountain bike. Once you’ve chosen your hotel in the Haute-Loire, set off to discover the emblematic Great hikes, and explore the Massif Central via its many hiking trails. These routes will take you to the Loire gorges, the Mézenc massif and Puy-en-Velay, offering magnificent landscapes to admire.
Atypical accommodation in Haute-Loire :
To take advantage of all these tourist activities, you’ll need to choose a place to stay.
How about the Hob Fort du Pré in Saint-Bonnet-Le Froid ?
Le Hob is an unusual place that will immerse you in a gastronomic experience in the heart of incredible nature!
You’ll be able to relax in cocooning rooms, toast at the bar, have lunch or dinner at the restaurant and enjoy dishes prepared with local produce. Pamper yourself with the indoor pool, sauna and massage treatments on offer to ensure your stay is the very best it can be! In the Hob, you’ll find plenty of games to play and make memories. When the sun is shining and the heat is on, the Hob Fort du Pré offers you a moment of idleness by the outdoor pool with an incredible view in a relaxing setting. Whether you’re on foot, bike, car or motorcycle, the Hob welcomes you just as you are, in a friendly atmosphere. If you’re lucky, one or more events will be organized during your stay (concert, play, themed culinary evening, pilates, brunch…). The Hob is also a venue for art exhibitions, so you can step into the shoes of an artist for a moment. To complete your stay, the Hob offers a park with a pétanque court, badminton court…