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Charroux
Allier
Charroux: a culinary and craft-focused getaway in the heart of the Bourbonnais
Charroux, in the Sioule Valley, is a village in Auvergne where crafts have never fallen out of favour. Soap-making, pottery, candles, saffron, mustard: here, everything is made on site in the village shops. A former stronghold, the village has preserved its fortified gates, its belfry, and its half-timbered houses, which bear witness to an important mercantile past.
A taste of traditional craftsmanship in the Bourbonnais
Fortified gates, a truncated bell tower, artisans’ workshops: in Charroux, heritage and craftsmanship go hand in hand, in a village with a distinctly Auvergnat character.
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
A. Schembri
Word of Mouth
In Charroux, the Soup Festival has been a treat every first Saturday in November since 2007! With a potter’s bowl in hand, you can wander through the narrow streets to sample, as you please, around fifty homemade soups concocted and served by the locals. Please note! This is a hugely popular event: don’t forget to book!
Your experiences to live in Charroux
Stroll amongst medieval heritage and handcrafted creations
Wander through the narrow streets of Charroux and let yourself be guided by the remains of its ramparts, its ‘Cour des Dames’ and its cobbled streets. Along the way, take the time to stop off at one of the 25 craft workshops that bring this village in the Allier to life.
Treat yourself to a view of the Auvergne
Just outside the old fortifications, the circular Charroux viewing point welcomes you beneath its central maple tree. From here, the view opens out over the Limagne plain and the Chaîne des Puys.
Browsing the village flea markets
The flea markets in Charroux feel like a journey back in time. Trinkets, antiques, curiosities of all kinds… Pop into one of the village’s two second-hand shops to unearth a real gem!
Enjoy it whatever the season
Artists’ Gatherings in August, the Soup Festival in November, the Christmas market in December… In Charroux, locals and visitors come together throughout the seasons to celebrate local crafts, a friendly atmosphere and traditions.
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From July 23, 2026 to Sept. 30, 2026
Randonnée Découverte en trottinette électrique tout terrain, XT Trip
Enjoy a fun adventure on an all-terrain electric scooter in the Val de Sioule! An immersive experience in the great outdoors, open to participants ages 14 and up, in groups of 2 to 10 people. Certified scooters and certified instructors.
Next dates:
- From 07/23/2026 to 09/30/2026
From July 26, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026 from 8 a.m.
Marché alimentaire de Charroux
New farmers' market in Charroux! Fruits and vegetables, cheeses, fish, meats, bread, and eggs await you. A regular stop to stock up on fresh, local produce.
Next dates:
- From 07/26/2026 to 12/31/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026 from 2:30 p.m.
Exposition · Peinture & Philatélie Marie-Noëlle Goffin – Musée de Charroux
Paintings, drawings, prints, and philately: a diverse and unique exhibition at the Charroux Museum. A pictorial world inspired by medieval and poetic themes, on display for one year.
Next dates:
- From 09/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
Open every day
From Sept. 19, 2026 to Sept. 20, 2026
Journées Européennes du Patrimoine - Musée de Charroux et de son Canton
As part of European Heritage Days, the Museum of Charroux and Its Canton will offer activities centered on the theme of photography: the museum’s photographic heritage (chimneys, Templar Commandery, etc.)
Next dates:
- 09/19/2026
Open every day - 09/20/2026
Open every day
Outdoor Escape Game: “Les Pierres du Temps”
A mysterious rucksack, puzzles to solve and a treasure to find… Charroux becomes your playground! This open-air treasure hunt combines exploring local heritage with team spirit, for an adventure to enjoy as a family.
Hiking
With the return of fine weather, it’s the perfect time to explore the trails around Charroux. Amidst valleys, woodland and viewpoints overlooking the Bourbonnais countryside, several routes – such as the one to the Parraut mill – invite you to enjoy the typical landscapes of Auvergne.
Guided tour
Fancy finding out more about Charroux? Every Wednesday morning in summer, join a 1 hour 15 minute guided tour through the village’s narrow streets and hidden gems. Anecdotes, heritage, an unusual stop-off… A real treat for anyone wanting to delve into the history of the Bourbonnais region.
Charroux and Antan Museum
14 rooms nestled within the ancient ramparts tell the story of the village through rare artefacts and iconic figures, from the Gallo-Roman period through the Middle Ages to the modern era. A fascinating visit that keeps you dry!
Cycling routes around the village
Charroux is the ideal starting point for cycle rides. From the challenging 66 km ‘Escapade entre Sioule et Bouble’ route to the more accessible 30 km ‘Entre Églises et Viaducs’ circuit, there’s something for everyone to explore the region on two wheels at their own pace.
Our recommendations
La boutique du nacrier
Pascal welcomes you to his workshop and shop, located in the heart of the village. As a passionate mother-of-pearl craftsman, he invites you to discover his creations and also offers introductory workshops for those keen to learn more.
L'Atelier de Patricia
Patricia brings wire to life by creating poetic, decorative objects. Her delicate and creative work makes for a lovely souvenir to take home from Charroux.
Map of Charroux
Extend the visit to near Charroux
Prepare your stay at Charroux
Office de Tourisme Val de Sioule
Accessibility
Charroux
# Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite : Accessible aux personnes à mobilité réduite et aux poussettes
# Parking : Stationnement payant ou partiellement payant en fonction de la situation et de la période
# Parking : Emplacements de stationnement pour vélos
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