Photo of Haute-Loire

About Haute-Loire

The south-eastern part of the Auvergne region, the Haute-Loire is a mountainous area, characterised by green forests, pretty villages and graceful châteaux. It’s a wonderful destination for a rural break or a food-focused holiday, with appealing accommodation options for couples, friends and families. Whether you’re dreaming of a restored château or a pretty riverside hotel, the best places to stay in the Haute-Loire await.

Head to Le Puy-en-Velay, the area’s largest town, for historic buildings and lively markets. Little villages offer cobbled squares with welcoming local restaurants, and provide perfect stopping points for days of hiking or cycling. Take to the waters of the Loire for kayaking, fishing and sailing, or try horse riding and bird-watching in the hills. The region also incorporates part of the striking Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park, which is well worth exploring.

Trips into the nearby Loire Valley, the Rhône Valley and the Ardèche are brilliant — as are lazy days at the best places to stay in the Haute-Loire.

The Best Places to Stay in the Haute-Loire

For Foodies

  • Le Haut Allier offers seven traditionally decorated rooms and a terrific Michelin-starred restaurant. Tuck in to elegant, inventive dishes created by Chefs Philippe et Clément Brun to showcase local ingredients. Regular wine tastings and mushroom foraging trips are highlights.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR Villa

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

Travel information

  • Fly to Clermont-Ferrand Auvergne Airport or to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, both under two hours from the Haute-Loire area. Travel to your destination by bus, train or car.
  • You'll find it much easier to explore if you have your own transport. Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • Travel during the spring or summer for the best weather, with temperatures ranging between 18 and 25°C in June to August. May or September are ideal for quieter trips; summers can be very busy with groups on walking or cycling holidays.

STILL NOT SURE?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Haute-Loire

Best Hotels in Haute-Loire

  • Le Haut Allier Alleyras, Haute-Loire 7 rooms from AU$141

    Country Escape  -  Secluded location surrounded by nature, rivers and green valleys.
    Sights nearby  -  Saint-Christophe-d'Allier and volcanoes of Auvergne nearby
    Learning  -  Mushroom picking trips available
    Foodies  -  Michelin starred restaurant
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantViews

    An elegant hotel in the Allier gorges. Rooms are charming and light with large bathrooms. Michelin starred-restaurant and spa. Wine-tasting, mushroom picking and hiking nearby. A classic weekend in France for foodies, families and couples. See More

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  • Art et Creation Saint-Bérain, Haute-Loire 8 rooms from AU$163

    Sights nearby  -  Visit the historic Le Puy-en-Velay, marvel at its iconic cathedral, and stroll through charming streets
    Romantic Break  -  Enjoy a secluded retreat with a hot tub, village views, and art-filled gardens
    Rafting  -  Experience the thrill of rafting in the dramatic Gorges de l'Allier
    Active Holiday  -  Expect adventure with canoeing trips, and hiking circuits
    Swimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    An adult-only B&B in Bourg Saint-Bérain, offering a charming retreat with views of the Gorges de l'Allier Caves. The decor blends artistic style with rustic touches like wooden beams and floors. Guests can expect a garden and terrace, adorned with sculptures, plus art classes. A creative getaway. See More

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  • Demeure du Lac de Fugeres Le Puy-en-Velay, Haute-Loire 5 rooms from AU$179

    Romantic Break  -  Savour a cosy breakfast with your loved one, then stroll to Le Puy Cathedral just 100 metres away
    Local exploring  -  Explore historic Le Puy Cathedral and Pierre Cardinal Center, all within a short walk
    Trekking  -  Enjoy a scenic hike up to the iconic Statue of Notre-Dame de France
    Sights nearby  -  Discover the stunning Romanesque architecture at Le Puy Cathedral
    ParkingNo pets

    A cosy bed and breakfast in historic Le Puy en Velay. Guests access the two wings of the house through a 15th century stone tower, giving the place an authentic feel. With only five individually-decorated romantic rooms, and a quiet continental breakfast each morning, it's a truly intimate retreat. See More

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  • La Cle des Arches Sainte-Florine, Haute-Loire 3 rooms from AU$189

    Great walks  -  Take a scenic hike through the Livradois-Forez Regional Park, offering breathtaking views and a serene natural environment
    Active Holiday  -  Dive into adventure with bike hire on-site and swim in the refreshing saltwater pool after a day of exploring
    Sights nearby  -  Discover the fascinating history of Chateau de Sainte-Florine, where guided tours reveal the rich past
    Local exploring  -  Explore historic gems like Eglise de Mailhat and Basilica of Saint Julien, just a short drive away
    Swimming PoolGardenViewsParkingNo pets

    A charming B&B in the heart of Sainte-Florine. With only three rooms, it's as intimate as they come with a comfortable interior. The hosts make a real effort to engage guests with nearby activities, and at the end of the day there's a saltwater pool and cosy bar to unwind in. A truly peaceful trip. See More

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  • La Bougnate Blesle, Haute-Loire 12 rooms from AU$200

    Sights nearby  -  Discover the historic Abbey Church of Saint-Peter, featuring vibrant murals and intriguing Romanesque architecture
    Cycling  -  Enjoy cycling through the stunning Alagnon Valley, known for its unique basaltic columns
    Active Holiday  -  This location provides easy access to hiking, cycling, and horse riding in scenic Blesle
    Local exploring  -  Ideal for a local exploring holiday, enjoy Blesle's charm with a stay at this hotel
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyParking

    A 3-star hotel in the charming village of Blesle. The interiors balance traditional elegance with contemporary touches, giving a rustic charm typical of the region. Centrally located for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, the hotel offers a quiet place to unwind at the end of a big day. See More

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  • La Framboisine Saint-Étienne-Lardeyrol, Haute-Loire 3 rooms from AU$245

    Museums  -  Visit the Musée de la Coutellerie in Thiers to witness master craftsmen at work and learn about the region’s rich history
    Local exploring  -  Explore Mont Gerbier's scenic beauty with cycling tours and unwind by the pool with mountain views
    Back to Nature  -  Immerse in nature with stunning mountain vistas and tailored walking maps, provided by the hotel
    Sights nearby  -  Discover the medieval streets of Salers, a charming village with lava stone houses
    RestaurantSwimming PoolGardenParkingNo pets

    Located in the serene hamlet of Fougères, just an hour and a half from Lyon, this charming farmhouse offers a peaceful retreat with rustic rooms. The hosts are warm and attentive - a particular highlight here are the custom walking itineraries they prepare for their guests. A very relaxing getaway. See More

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  • Chateau de Saint Vidal Saint-Vidal, Haute-Loire 7 rooms from AU$456

    Honeymoons  -  Revel in romantic luxury with private garden views, intimate in-room breakfasts, and relaxing wellness spa sessions
    Back to Nature  -  Immerse yourself in nature with nearby hiking trails, cycling adventures, and serene garden strolls
    Other Activities  -  Visit Le Puy Cathedral, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture
    Sights nearby  -  Explore the historic Forteresse de Saint-Vidal
    SpaRestaurantGardenViewsNo pets

    A luxurious hotel in Saint-Vidal, just 10km from Le Puy Cathedral. The ambience blends historical elegance with modern comforts, featuring refined décor and wonderful garden views. Guests can expect gourmet dining on the terrace, plus a wellness area with a sauna and hot tub. A relaxing escape. See More

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  • Le Volcan des Sens Torsiac, Haute-Loire from AU$466

    Back to Nature  -  The bio-climatic wood-frame architecture, the cuisine based on wild plants, and the wellness area will awaken your senses
    Spa breaks  -  Unwind in the spa bath, and savour breakfast on the large terrace
    Sights nearby  -  Embark on a historical journey with a visit to nearby Blesle
    Cycling  -  Cycle through verdant landscapes, exploring serene trails
    Air conditioningSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A luxury guesthouse with five suites in the charming village of Torsiac. Guests can enjoy the on-site spa, natural swimming lane, and delightful breakfast featuring local produce. With mountain bike rentals and picnic baskets, it’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. A really enjoyable stay. See More

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