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Lavoûte-Chilhac
Haute-Loire
Lavoûte-Chilhac, a medieval village nestled in a wild bend of the Allier Gorges
In the south of Auvergne, nestled in a bend of the Allier, Lavoûte-Chilhac is the perfect stop for lovers of heritage and nature. At the foot of a rocky cirque, explore the Cluniac priory, its 15th-century church and the ancient alleyways of the Barrys district. A medieval bridge links the two banks, where houses cling to the rock face. Here, nature is everywhere: river, panoramic views and outdoor activities.
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
A legend from Lavou
In 1496, two little girls playing on the banks of the River Allier are said to have broken a pebble… and found within it an image of Our Lady holding her child on her left arm, which immediately brought to mind the Virgin Mary. Miraculous healings are attributed to the small statuette and the cult of “Notre-Dame-Trouvée” grew. Since then, a pilgrimage has been held in her honour on the first Sunday in July. The stone itself is still kept in the Church of Sainte-Croix, in the silver reliquary specially designed by the Benedictines at the time.
Your experiences to live in Lavoûte-Chilhac
Strolling through the traboules
Let yourself be surprised by the many ‘traboules’ in the old quarter – these discreet passageways linking alleyways, houses and the banks of the Allier. It’s an unusual way to discover the village’s history as you wander along its hidden paths.
©Les Plus Beaux Villages de France
Taking in the view from the hamlet of Le Bois
Follow a short, 45-minute circular walk to reach the hamlet of Le Bois. From the viewpoint, a sweeping panorama takes in Lavoûte-Chilhac and the wild waters of the Allier. A view not to be missed during your stay, and even more beautiful at sunset.
Savour the flavours of the Auvergne region
Cheeses, cured meats and local specialities… Head to the Place des Anciens Moulins to sample the authentic flavours of Auvergne: the market brings the village to life every Friday in the late afternoon… and also on Sunday mornings in the summer.
Get away from it all on a bike
Around Lavoûte-Chilhac, explore the Auvergne countryside that lies before you. With its quiet country lanes and villages perched high in the Allier Gorges, every detour reveals a new vista.
Ideas for everyone, all the time
From Jan. 1, 2026 to Dec. 31, 2026
Marchés hebdomadaires
On the Place des Anciens Moulins. Markets all year round on Fridays from 5.30pm. Sunday mornings in July and August.
Next dates:
- From 01/01/2026 to 12/31/2026
From Aug. 28, 2026 to Sept. 11, 2026
Exposition artistique / D'MLINE
The artist D'MLINE invites us to discover his artistic world through his colorful and original works.
Next dates:
- From 08/28/2026 to 09/11/2026
From Sept. 12, 2026 to Nov. 1, 2026 from 2 p.m.
Exposition " Epures sauvages" / Vincent Rillardon
Vincent Rillardon unveils a series of photographs dedicated to birds and nature.
Next dates:
- From 09/12/2026 to 11/01/2026
Open every day
A ride on a vintage moped
Fancy a unique day out with friends? Hop on a 1960s moped for a trip full of character through the Allier Valley. A retro and quirky way to experience the Haute-Loire with a difference!
Fishing in the Allier
In the warmer months, the river comes to life and it’s the perfect time to try your hand at fly fishing in the gorges. Brown trout and grayling lurk in the cool waters of the Allier, making it the ideal spot for a peaceful afternoon by the water’s edge.
Water sports
When summer brings warmth to the banks of the Allier, it’s time for some aquatic adventure! Canoeing, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, rafting or simply a swim: so many ways to venture into the heart of the gorges and take in the unspoilt scenery!
Walk around Lavoûte-Chilhac
Set off with the family on an 11 km circular walk that takes you to Chilhac, perched on its volcanic promontory. The trail offers alternating views of the Allier Gorges, the basalt columns and the old narrow streets. Best enjoyed amidst the charm of the autumn colours...
Our recommendations
VVF Villages
VVF de Lavoûte-Chilhac
The VVF holiday home in Lavoûte-Chilhac is set in a stunning natural location just 100 metres from the banks of the River Allier. It is an ideal destination for lovers of white-water sports and hiking, as well as families.
Map of Lavoûte-Chilhac
Extend the visit to near Lavoûte-Chilhac
Lavaudieu
(13 km)
Blesle
(26 km)
Le Malzieu-Ville
(33 km)
Prepare your stay at Lavoûte-Chilhac
Office de Tourisme Rives du Haut-Allier
Accessibility
Lavoûte-Chilhac
# Parking : Stationnement gratuit toute l'année
# Aire de stationnement pour camping-car : Aire de stationnement pour camping-cars à moins de 15 mn à pieds
