Three gentle walks in Livradois-Forez
1. "La Morille", from Ravel Castle
From the Château de Ravel, one of the largest in the Auvergne region, its massive silhouette towering above the village, discover a number of unspoilt viewpoints. This easy loop takes you through the woods on the hillside where the fortress stands. You’ll catch a glimpse of old vineyard slopes, where you’ll still see the “tons”, small stone huts used today to store equipment. A land of clay, Ravel is surrounded by ponds that still bear witness to the abundance of this material, the origin of tile and pottery craftsmanship.
2. Masselèbre and its lonely stone bridge
Deserted by the waters of the Dore, whose bed has long since turned away from its stone arches, the medieval bridge of Masselèbre stands in its strangeness above the river’s ancient course. This circuit, starting from the priory at Chaumont-le-Bourg (its ditches are still filled with water), takes you around a forest on quiet paths. Along the Saut stream to the hamlet of Masselèbre, then through the woods, this short hike in the shadow of the Forez mountains will appeal to lovers of ancient heritage.
3. Grands Graviers pond
Between the city and the wild riverbanks, this is the ideal route for a family Sunday. The wood-lined Etang des Grands Graviers offers a welcome moment of calm. Follow the course of the Dore at your own pace, taking time to stroll along the water’s edge, before returning to the streets of Puy-Guillaume for a well-deserved break.