Discover the Allier and its treasures
Staying at a campsite in the Allier (Auvergne) means immersing yourself in still unspoilt nature and a rich heritage. Between valleys, rivers, forests and picturesque villages, your stay promises memorable moments.
Enjoy visits, walks and food experiences to explore the Auvergne in a different way. Thanks to our prime location, you are just a few minutes from the must-sees of the Val de Sioule. The Val de Sioule Tourist Office offers a wide range of activities: hiking or mountain biking, nature excursions and local heritage not to be missed.
The finest places to visit around the campsite
From Camping des Papillons, you can easily discover characterful villages such as Charroux, labelled one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”, or Ébreuil and its local markets. Let yourself be won over by the medieval castle of Chouvigny, or by the spa town of Vichy, known for its springs and elegant architecture.
For history lovers, Objectif Auvergne offers visits such as the Panoramique des Dômes, which tells the story of the region’s volcanic and cultural past. The volcano of
Lemptégy is also a must-see!
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Cultural visits in the Allier
The cultural heritage of the Allier is exceptional: painted churches, art and tradition museums, historic villages.
Don’t miss the Val de Sioule Tourist Office to discover the painted churches of the Bourbonnais, Chantelle Abbey and the Bellenaves Automobile Museum.
Objectif Auvergne also offers exhibitions and themed or immersive guided tours, such as the Grotte de la Pierre de Volvic.
These outings open a window onto local history, geology, traditional crafts and the traditional arts.
A campsite close to the Gorges de la Sioule and the Chaîne des Puys
Our family campsite is ideally placed to explore the natural Auvergne. Just a few minutes away, the Gorges de la Sioule offer striking landscapes, hiking trails and water activities (canoeing, kayaking).
The Forêt des Colettes is perfect for long walks under tall trees and mountain-bike trails. Further afield, the Chaîne des Puys and the Puy de Dôme make an easy day trip: a volcanic panorama, unique biodiversity, a panoramic train or waymarked paths.
photo credit: Gûlwen Heide – stock.adobe.com
HERE, EVERY PATH TELLS
A STORY OF NATURE.
LOCAL
DISCOVER DIFFERENTLY
The best things to do in Auvergne
There is plenty to keep children and adults happy around the campsite. Feel free to ask at reception:
- Paleopolis
- Vulcania
- The amusement and animal park le PAL
The whole family will find something to enjoy in the Allier: canoeing or rafting on the Sioule, tree climbing, the vélorail, forest walks, paddleboarding and horse riding.
For a quieter pace, enjoy the gentlest views or the discovery cycle routes in the Val de Sioule.
Keen to discover the wonders of the Puy-de-Dôme? Between volcanic landscapes, charming villages, outdoor activities and cultural finds, this beautiful part of the Auvergne is full of things to do for every taste
Explore the volcanoes of the Auvergne
You cannot visit the Puy-de-Dôme without discovering the famous Chaîne des Puys and the majestic Puy de Dôme. On foot or on the panoramic rack railway, enjoy exceptional views over the volcanoes and the surrounding countryside.
Enjoy outdoor activities
Hiking, mountain biking, paragliding, tree climbing or horse riding: nature lovers will find plenty of ways to enjoy the wide open spaces of the Auvergne.
Relax in the heart of nature
Discover the region’s lakes and waterfalls, such as Lac Chambon or the Queureuilh waterfall. These places are perfect for a walk, a picnic or a relaxing family day.
Visit the villages and local heritage
Let yourself be charmed by characterful villages such as Montpeyroux or Besse-et-Saint-Anastaise. Picturesque lanes, stone houses and historic heritage plunge you into the authentic Auvergne.
Share original family experiences
Vulcania invites you to explore the mysteries of volcanoes and the planet through rides and immersive experiences. An ideal outing for learning while having fun!
Taste Auvergne specialities
Make the most of your stay to savour the classics of local food: truffade, aligot, and PDO cheeses such as Saint-Nectaire, Fourme d’Ambert or Bleu d’Auvergne.
The Puy-de-Dôme, a destination for every wish!
Whether you are with family, as a couple, with friends or looking for adventure, you will find an activity that suits you. Between nature, thrills, relaxation and good food, the Auvergne promises unforgettable memories!
memories
Don’t miss the summer events
The Allier and the Auvergne live to the rhythm of the seasons and offer a rich programme of local events every summer. From the campsite, you can join many friendly, cultural or food-focused festivities.
Here are a few dates not to miss during your stay:
- producers’ markets in Ébreuil, Gannat or Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule: ideal for tasting local products and meeting the makers.
- the medieval festival in Charroux: step into history with re-enactments, street shows and workshops for children.
- the Festival des Cultures du Monde in Gannat (July): a must for discovering music and dance from all over the world.
- fireworks and village dances in neighbouring towns, especially on 14 July.
- open-air concerts and family entertainment in Vichy or in the surrounding villages.
- wine festivals in Saint-Pourçain-sur-Sioule, with tastings and events around the AOC wines
Check the calendar of the Val de Sioule Tourist Office (valdesioule.com) for exact dates and places during your stay. These events are the perfect chance to discover the Allier in another way, through festive, warm and typically Auvergne moments.
Visit
PÉPIT: set off on a family treasure hunt!
Want to discover the Auvergne in a different way on holiday? Set off on an adventure with PÉPIT, a life-size treasure hunt that invites you to explore the riches of the Allier Bourbonnais as a family.
With a completely free mobile app, children and adults search for treasures, solve riddles and complete playful missions through the villages, natural landscapes and remarkable sites of the area.
An original activity that combines a walk, heritage discovery and fun during your stay at Camping des Papillons, in the heart of the Allier!
Discover the PÉPIT adventures
Discover the PÉPIT adventures
photo credit: © Allier Bourbonnais Attractivité
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