Like the nearby Allier, the Besbre river on the valley floor is famous for its trout. Vichy is a beautiful city in Art Deco style. It’s known for its healing springs, and has many luxury shops, fine restaurants and terraces for dining outdoors. It’s also a very green city with the Parc des Sources at its center and a splendid arboretum on the banks of the Allier river. Roanne is on the other side of the mountain that forms the border with the Loire region. From la Grande Serve, it’s a beautiful journey that takes you to the Roannais wine country.

There are countless charming small towns and villages, and markets and festivals in the summer months. For some suggestions, see our links page.