Les Hautes-Chaumes du Forez | Vacances en Auvergne – Maison du Tourisme du Livradois Forez

Breathing on the Hautes-Chaumes of Monts du Forez.

Once covered in forest, the Hautes-Chaumes of Forez has been shaped by centuries of pastoralism, transforming the landscape into a green carpet undulating under the sky.

In the Middle Ages, jasseries (thatched and tiled farmhouses) sheltered families and livestock during the summer months. You would have seen the women and children looking after the cows, especially the local Ferrandaises, while the men stayed in the valley, busying themselves with farm work. It was a delicate balance, punctuated by the seasons and transhumance.

This era slowly faded away in the 1960s. The jasseries, silent witnesses to a bygone era, were emptied, leaving the Hautes-Chaumes alone with their memories of the past.

Follow in the footsteps of the peddler Jasseries of Valcivières

If you fancy a day out, we invite you to follow in the footsteps of the pedlars of the Jasseries de Valcivières, on the trail of the same name. This historic and picturesque route will take you through high moorland.

Here, nature reigns supreme, creating breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as the eye can see. Situated in the Hautes-Chaumes, the Jasseries de Valcivières landscapes are characterised by their meadows, forests and small hamlets.

This easy hike stretches over 9.2 kilometres and 257 metres of ascent. At the start, vast short-grass meadows stretch out before you. After a few tree-shaded stretches, the peat bogs come into view. Next, the high-altitude pastures, adjacent to the jasseries, make their appearance. Finally, a winding path leads you through a beech grove with its characteristic aromas. Enamelled lava panels dot the route, telling the story of a travelling merchant. If you’re lucky, you may even spot a flock of sheep, discreet guardians of these wild lands. It’s the perfect way to get your feet wet!

Catering

Why not stop off at the Jasserie du Coq Noir in Saint Anthème? In an idyllic, unspoilt setting, you can enjoy country-style meals made with local produce from the Jasserie du Coq Noir: wild fruit and plants, farmhouse cheeses and charcuterie. Try the traditional patia of potatoes preserved in cream. This is a popular stopover for walkers, so make sure you book ahead!

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Pierre-sur-Haute, the highest peak in the Hautes-Chaumes region

Pierre-sur-Haute, at an altitude of 1,631 metres, is the highest peak in the Forez mountains, marking the boundary between the departments of Loire and Puy-de-Dôme.

Imagine facing the biting wind of the burle, typical of this altitude. This capricious wind weaves a landscape of thick snow and fog, creating a very special atmosphere. You’ll almost feel like you’re in another world…

Look around you: the heaths and grasslands at altitude stretch as far as the eye can see, interspersed with pine and conifer forests. In these wild expanses, the flora has adapted to survive. Blueberries nestle between the rocks, while broom lights up the slopes with its yellow flowers.

And what about the wildlife? You might be lucky enough to be flown over by a majestic red kite. These impromptu encounters will be unforgettable moments of your adventure.

For hikers, Pierre-sur-Haute is a destination of choice. Follow the GR3 for a memorable hike or, if you prefer a less demanding approach, the Jasseries chairlift from the Chalmazel ski resort will take you comfortably to the heights.

Accommodation around Hautes-Chaumes

Do you know jasseries?

In the heart of the Hautes-Chaumes, the Jasseries de Valcivières bear witness to their rich past as pastoralists. In the Middle Ages, peddlers would travel the winding paths of this wild region, laden with goods, to meet the isolated inhabitants of these heights. They used these paths to reach the jasseries, unique alpine farms.

Built from local stone and thatched, these jasseries were much more than simple shelters. During the summer months, they were bustling with activity, welcoming herds of cattle for summer grazing. These buildings were the heart of agropastoral life, where the milk from the herds was transformed into delicious cheeses, such as the famous Fourme d’Ambert.

These historic farms, scattered across the rolling green landscapes of the Hautes-Chaumes, tell a story of adaptation and survival, where people and animals coexisted in harmony with nature. A precious rural heritage that even today arouses curiosity and inspires respect for the traditions of yesteryear.

Activities not to be missed around Hautes-Chaumes

Enjoy authentic entertainment

At the Jasserie du Coq Noir, discover life in a 19thᵉ century jasserie and how fourme cheese is made, thanks to guided tours offered in May, June and September. The Jasserie du coq noir also offers guided walks, allowing you to explore the local flora and fauna. Plus, discover the rich cultural season from May to September, with concerts, shows, musette dances and lectures. To delight your taste buds, La Jasserie offers group lunches and dinners.

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Sports breaks

To continue exploring the Livradois-Forez, why not get on your bikes and embark? Leaving from Ambert, the Forez circuit is a 20km cycle tour that will immerse you in thehistory and culture of the region. You’ll pass through some charming little villages and discover craftsmen’s workshops and iconic sites such as the Moulin Richard de Bas, where paper is still made using traditional methods.

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Garden for the Earth

Take a break at Jardin pour la Terre in Arlanc, an ecological garden that promotes local biodiversity. Here you can discover a wide variety of organically grown plants, trees, vegetables and fruit. Before setting off again, wander through the picturesque streets of Ambert’s old town. You’ll find beautiful half-timbered houses, lively squares and an authentic atmosphere.

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Ambert, Fourme & Forez

Stroll through the cobbled streets to reach the Maison de la fourme d’Ambert and Auvergne cheeses. This is your chance to discover the history of Fourme d’Ambert cheese, understand how it is made and enjoy a tasting session at the end of the guided tour. Thanks to the shop, you’ll be able to take home a selection of local products to take home with you and your friends, so that they’ll want to come and discover the charm of the destinations in the Livradois Forez Regional Nature Park.