Local Attractions
| Walking - The Auvergne is a perfect region for walking at all levels. Challenge yourself against mountains where valleys have been carved out by ancient glaciers, or ramble over gently rolling hills, through dappled woods and fields abundant with poppies and wildflowers in this lovely rural countryside. Each walk explores the diversity of nature in its glory. | |
| Fishing –There are miles of beautiful riverbanks, also public and private lakes to fish. See the fishing page on our sister site for further information. | |
| Water sports - Canoeing, Swimming, white water rafting. The Allier, The Alongnon, and the Loire rivers all run through the region. It is easy to find the perfect spot to picnic on the riverbank, read a book and sip a glass of wine. | |
| Spas and Water therapies - It was for the hot springs and spas that the Auvergne became known in the 1800's, and the culture remains the same now. Spa therapy, massages and water treatments of all kinds are available for whole or half days of pampering and relaxing. The volcanic nature of the region means these natural waters are reputed to have wonderful healing qualities. | |
| Action Sports - Parascending, Ballooning, Rock-climbing, Cross-country cycling, winter sports, such as downhill and cross-country skiing, dog sledding, Snow shoe walking - both day and night walks can be arranged. The list goes on, call us or look on the tourist office websites below, to see what’s on offer at a particular time of year. | |
| Local History - The
Auvergne is famous for its Chateau's, Churches, and other historic and
prehistoric sites. It was here that Vercintinorix fought Caesars army and won,
at nearby Gergovie. From the 10th Century onwards the Roman Catholic churches
were built here along with monasteries, and other religious monuments. Both Clermont Ferrand and Le Puy en Velay have a great history to explore. The old town, streets steeped in history, make interesting shopping, and jostle alongside modern shops, malls and boutiques. Restaurants, bars and street cafes are in abundance. |
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| Wine Trails - The Auvergne's wine region has the appellation VDQS, Vin Delimite de Qualite Superiour, it includes Saint-Pourçain, Châteaugay, Madargues, Boudes or Corent. The Cotes D'Auvergne wine was damaged badly in the late 1800's by phylloxera, however, the growers have made a great comeback and the wine trail around the region is worth travelling. Most wine caves will offer tasting of wines from all over France. | |
| Cheeses - The cheeses are
one of the gems of this area it is classed as an AOC (cheese produced locally
and reaching a specified standard) a real feather in the cap. Those, for
example, from St Nectaire, Cantal, Fourme d'Ambert, Bleu d'Auvergne, St Agur,
blue and creamy, Gaperon produced from the milk of cows fed on wild garlic –
wonderful. There is an Auvergne cheese trail to follow, trying cheeses on the
farms that make them. An excellent way to spend a day. See more at - www.fromages-aoc-auvergne.com/ |
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| Local Tourist offices www.brioude.com |