Welcome to the haute loire
The Haute Loire, that part of France relatively unknown and still authentic, natural and occassionally "sauvage".
The Haute Loire lies to the South of the Auvergne with a continental climate. The summers are hot and dry with the occassional storm and the winters provide snow and cross country skiing. Relatively unknown even in France it is becoming a popular tourist destination for walkers and all those that love the great outdoors. It has been a cultural centre for centuries and there are pleny of festivals to enjoy throughout the year.
Land of ancient volcanoes and lentils!
The landscape is varied from the "haute plateau" and its fields of green lentils (the first vegetable to receive an AOC), to the gorges of the Loire and the Allier, the "Monts" of the Mezenc, the Meygl and the Mageride. All arond there are the "sucs", ancient volcanic cones proud gaurdians of the Haute Loire. The volcanic earth and rich pastures have given rise to an agricultural tradition born of respect for the earth. Famous for its beef and cheese, as well as the lentils the gastronomy of the region is sure to delight - escepially after a long walk...
Walking and more...
For walking, trekking and mountain biking the Haute Loire is ideal. It offers the "grande randonnée" of the "Chemins de StJaques" alongside many shorter routes and footpaths. There is also plenty of other activities on offer, so whether it be horse riding, climbing or cannyoning, you can find it here.
Even in winter, profit from the snow and go walking with snow shoes or skiing at one of the cross country ski centres at the Mezenc, Meygal or Durand.
getting here...
No, Ryan Air doesn't even pretend to fly here, so that is a bonus whether you are an "ecolo" or merely seeking to get away from the herd. There is an airport near Le Puy but it is only served from Paris. Nearest large airport is Clemont Ferrand. Driving is straight forward if long - find your route on via-michelin and check out the local driving conditions here. Better still take the train - details here.
