Sports holidays in Haute-Loire

Welcome to Haute-Loire, a hidden gem in the heart of Auvergne, where nature reigns supreme and history has shaped unique landscapes and towns. From the volcanic plateaus of Velay to the deep gorges of the young Loire and Allier rivers, Haute-Loire is an invitation to authentic adventure. It's a hiker's paradise, notably as the historic starting point of the Way of St. James (Camino de Santiago) in the majestic city of Le Puy-en-Velay , and a destination that will surprise you with its rich heritage and stunning scenery. Prepare for a complete immersion in an intense and rejuvenating France.

A land of unspoiled nature

The Haute-Loire region is shaped by ancient volcanic activity, which has bequeathed it landscapes unique in France:

1. The volcanic domes of Mézenc and Meygal: These distinctive volcanic peaks offer exceptional panoramas and perfect playgrounds for hiking and outdoor sports. Mont Mézenc, the highest point, watches over these wild expanses.
2. The Loire and Allier Gorges: These two powerful rivers have carved spectacular gorges, offering breathtaking landscapes, ideal for canoeing, kayaking, rafting, fishing or simply contemplation.
3. Plateaus and forests as far as the eye can see: The Velay plateau, the Devès... these vast expanses are ideal for hiking, mountain biking and discovering rich and preserved flora and fauna.

On the hiking trails:

Haute-Loire is a land of passage and spirituality, crisscrossed by internationally renowned hiking trails:

1. Le Puy-en-Velay, starting point of the Way of St. James: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of Le Puy-en-Velay is the historic starting point of the Via Podiensis (GR®65) to Santiago de Compostela. Its Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Corneille Rock, and the Saint-Michel d'Aiguilhe Chapel are gems not to be missed before setting off on your journey.
2. The Stevenson Trail (GR®70): Relive the journey of the Scottish writer Robert Louis Stevenson with his donkey Modestine, through the varied landscapes of Velay and Cévennes.
3. The GR®3 Source and Gorges of the Loire: A route which follows the course of the longest river in France, from its source (at Mont Gerbier de Jonc, on the border with the Ardèche) through the Haute-Loire.
4. Many other trails (PR): For more local discoveries, a multitude of marked trails await you.

An exceptional heritage:

Beyond its iconic capital, the Haute-Loire region holds many architectural treasures:

1. Villages of character: Several are classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France" such as Arlempdes and its castle overlooking the Loire, Pradelles, or Blesle and its half-timbered houses.
2. Medieval castles: Lafayette Castle, birthplace of the famous marquis, Polignac Castle perched on its volcanic hill, or Chavaniac-Lafayette Castle.
3. A rich religious heritage: Abbeys (such as La Chaise-Dieu, although most of it is in the Puy-de-Dôme, its influence radiates), Romanesque churches and sanctuaries bear witness to the past and present fervor of the department.

Activities to discover in Haute-Loire:

A land of adventure, the Haute-Loire offers a wide range of outdoor activities:

1. Hiking in all its forms: on foot, on horseback, with donkeys...
2. Cycling and mountain biking: From quiet country roads to more technical mountain bike trails on volcanic terrain.
3. Whitewater sports: Canoeing, kayaking, rafting, hydrospeeding in the gorges of the Allier and Loire rivers.
4. Fishing: In the numerous rivers and bodies of water.
5. In winter: Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the Mézenc and Meygal mountain ranges.
6. Rock climbing: On equipped natural sites.

Your stay in Haute-Loire will also be an opportunity to discover a generous gastronomy and quality local products: the famous Puy Green Lentil AOP, Velay Verbena (digestive liqueur), farm cheeses, mountain charcuterie...

Our other trips in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes :

1. Stay in the Ardèche
2. Stay in the Drôme
3. Stay in Haute-Savoie
4. Stay in Isère
5. Stay in the Loire
6. Stay in the Puy-de-Dôme
7. Stay in the Rhône
8. Stay in Savoie