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?

Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Clermont-Ferrand.
Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in Auvergne.
Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.

Weather

Monthly Weather in Haute-Loire

Best Hotels in Haute-Loire

Le Haut Allier Alleyras, Haute-Loire 7 rooms from $96

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
Art et Creation Saint-Bérain, Haute-Loire 8 rooms from $111

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
Demeure du Lac de Fugeres Le Puy-en-Velay, Haute-Loire 5 rooms from $122

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
La Cle des Arches Sainte-Florine, Haute-Loire 3 rooms from $129

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
La Bougnate Blesle, Haute-Loire 12 rooms from $137

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
La Framboisine Saint-Étienne-Lardeyrol, Haute-Loire 3 rooms from $167

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
Chateau de Saint Vidal Saint-Vidal, Haute-Loire 7 rooms from $311

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability
Le Volcan des Sens Torsiac, Haute-Loire from $318

See more photos

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

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

Check Availability