La Grande Serve is located 780 meters above sea level at the end of a road in the tiny village La Chabanne in the Bourbonnais mountains, called the Switzerland of France because of the region’s exceptionally pure air. (photo's) Surrounding la Grande Serve is a pristine landscape of mixed forests, hamlets, farms and tiny villages, dotted with streams, country roads and walking paths. However, the large cities of Roanne and Vichy are both only about 45 minutes away by car, so you won’t feel isolated. This is the spot to mountain bike, rest, fish, read, hike, and eat like a king.

It’s about a 3 kilometer ride to the village, but by foot, it’s only 600 meters. You can wine and dine in the village, and use the internet at the Auberge des Campanules. Fresh meat, cheeses and groceries can be had at Lionel’s butcher shop. The town hall has a post office.

The nearest large town is Le Mayet de Montagne, 12 kilometers away, with everything from a supermarket to medical facilities.