Discover Sauvat, Cantal, Auvergne's hidden gems

Paved sections open to traffic: 45%. Starting out on the "Piste Verte", this tour for mountain bikers presents only one difficulty: the ascent to the Réal, which takes place on a tarmac section. Ascent: 330 m Start at the old Largnac station, take the "Piste Verte" in the direction of Ydes. 1. Leave the Piste Verte on the right, cross the D922 with care, then take the first small road on the left. At the last dwelling, the route continues along a wide forest track which joins the Réal. 2. Go through the village of Ydes-Bourg, then turn right over a small bridge towards Sauvat. 3. About 300 m after the hamlet of Poux, in a wide bend overhung by a rock, fork right onto the grassy path between two meadows.

On the program: an ethnobotanical discovery trail, the charming hamlet of Milhac and its impressive organs overlooking the Sumène valley. At an altitude of 700 m, Milhac lies on the slopes of a small valley on the edge of the Trizac plateau. The latter corresponds to a vast basaltic flow called planèze. This flow abutted an older phonolitic flow, ending here with remarkable cliffs overlooking the Sumène valley. These are known as the Milhac rocks. Part of this circuit is an ethnobotanical discovery trail. Created by the Office National des Forêts, it features a fine sampling of our region's trees. Starting point: Hameau de Milhac. Start above the bread oven (picnic table). Walk down the small road past the oven.

This fairly easy route takes in a large part of the "piste verte", the former railroad line that linked Mauriac to Bort les Orgues. The route also takes in the picturesque villages of Saignes and Ydes Bourg... Difference in altitude: 220 m Tarmac sections open to traffic: 30%. Between Largnac and Saignes railway station, this route follows the Piste Verte for almost 5 km. Built on an old railroad line, this is an ideal place to enjoy a wide range of activities in a pleasant, safe setting: hiking, cycling, rollerblading... Rental of mountain bikes, VTC, electric bikes, rollerblades and scooters in Ydes (Ydes Champagnac station - 8 rue de la gare).

This hike takes you via the Piste Verte and the Bassignac viaduct to the ruins of the Château de Charlus. These offer a vast panorama that alone is worth the effort of climbing to the summit. Castrum Carlicium was one of the most important fortresses in Haute Auvergne. Comprising a large square keep, two main buildings and a chapel, the castle was surrounded by a first wall protected by a dozen round towers with battlements and machicolations. A platform terrace served as the second wall. Richelieu ordered its destruction in 1633. Today, only a few remnants of the walls remain. Departure point: junction of the D512 and the Piste Verte. Between Le Marlat and Parensol, the start is at the crossroads between the D512 and the Piste Verte (parking lot). Follow the D512 uphill. Just before the small bridge at the head of the hairpin, take the path on the right that climbs to the Pic de Charlus.

From the bocage plains of Saignes, set off to conquer Chastel-Marlhac, an impressive rocky promontory and thousand-year-old fortress with a tormented past. A site naturally defended by high basalt cliffs, the Chastel-Marlhac plateau has been the site of archaeological discoveries that bear unmistakable witness to a Celtic and later Gallo-Roman presence. In the Middle Ages, the site became a coveted fortress, containing crops, an orchard, a pond and abundant springs. Departure point: Place de la Poste, Saignes. From Place de la Poste in Saignes, take the D30 towards Le Monteil. After 300 m, turn left towards La Vigne. Alternative: Just off the trail, don't miss the village of Chastel-Marlhac and its beautiful church, as well as the 3 belvederes, offering remarkable panoramic views.

A hike that takes you from Vendes and its impressive viaduct to the summit of Puy du Mas. Some of the slopes are a little rough, but most are shaded by oak trees. The viaduct, which spans the Sumène Gorge for almost 367 m, is the second longest viaduct in the Cantal region, after the Garabit viaduct. 46m high, it is made up of granite piers supporting a heavy metal deck comprising 5 spans, each with a span of 66m (at the ends) and 78m (for the 3 central spans). It took around 12 tonnes of paint to cover the 15,000m² structure! See the nearby 12th-century chapel. Departure point: Hameau de Vendes. From the Louis Brousse school parking lot in the center of the hamlet of Vendes, take the road on the right, looking towards the school.

This hike takes you over Vendes, a charming village nestled at the entrance to the Sumène Gorge, offering lovely panoramic views of the valley and the Sancy mountains in the distance. Dating from the 12th century, but undoubtedly older, the Vendes chapel is dedicated to Saint-Jacques. Vendes must have been located on a secondary route which, in the Middle Ages, led pilgrims to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The little path behind the chapel is still known as the "Chemin de Saint-Jacques". The return journey to Vendes follows an ancient Roman road that linked Clermont to Toulouse. A military milestone discovered at Gorces near Ydes-Bourg (now visible in the Château de Val chapel), provides evidence of the existence of this road in Gallo-Roman times. Departure point: Hameau de Vendes. From the Louis Brousse school parking lot in the center of the hamlet of Vendes, take the road on the right, looking towards the school. Join the départementale in the direction of Veyrières.

This challenging mountain bike trail takes in the northern end of the Trizac planèze and the impressive organs of Chastel-Marlhac and Monteil.

Tarmac sections open to traffic: 20%. This circuit follows the route of PR 24 and, despite some difficult sections, offers a short introduction to mountain biking. Depart from the Louis Brousse school parking lot in the center of the hamlet of Vendes, take the left-hand road opposite the school (nearby 12th-century chapel). 1. At a wide bend in the road, turn right onto a small asphalt road. Once you've passed the last dwellings, this road gives way to a wide track which leads to the vacation village. 2. Just before the first houses in La Baraque, turn right down a wide track. At the first fork in the road, turn left uphill. 3. In sight of the summit, take the right-hand path down into the forest, cross a talweg and then climb up the forest slope to a wide, passable track. 4. Turn right on this ancient Roman road, which leads to Vendes at the Château.

From the Champagnaguès plateau, this hike takes you to the gorges of the Dordogne, a legendary river, once tempestuous, whose steep banks still shelter a rich and wild nature. Since at least the 14th century, Vernéjoux has been a gateway to the Limousin region. At that time, a ferry regularly crossed the Dordogne. Around 1840, the ferry was replaced by the Vernéjoux suspension bridge. The latter was rebuilt in the 20th century. Departure point: Champagnac church square. From the church square in Champagnac, take the D12 towards Saint-Pierre. As you leave the village, fork left onto a wide track and drive 500 m to reach the corner of a meadow. Turn right onto a forest track.

Quiet, comfortable self-contained gîte located between the Dordogne Valley and the Monts du Cantal. Close to a lovely watering hole. A games room equipped for leisure activities. Two steps from a multi-activity trail.

Our rooms are located in a late 19th-century mansion set in one hectare of landscaped grounds. Each room has its own private bathroom and toilet. A fully equipped kitchen is available on request. You the bowling green. Also for our motorbike friends, a motorcycle shelter is available. We are 10 minutes from the Bort-les-Orgues dam (beach, swimming, canoeing, pedalos...), 25 minutes from the Dordogne gorges and 30 minutes from the medieval town of Salers.

Large detached house set in 2850m2 of wooded grounds. Situated between the Dordogne gorges and the Cantal mountains, this beautiful home welcomes you to a peaceful setting at the entrance to the village of Ydes. You can share a convivial moment on a covered terrace, but also on a second south-facing terrace equipped with 2 garden furniture sets, deckchairs, a barbecue and a ping-pong table. All shops and services in Ydes 500m away.

Come and discover the horse in a different way, how it behaves, how it learns, how he lives within his herd. By developing trust, respect and understanding understanding, you'll build a better relationship on foot and on horseback. Sandra will help you progress at your own pace, from beginner to advanced rider: you'll be able to pass your Galops and Savoirs d'équitation éthologique, improve your position and balance, discover long reins and Equifeel, progress in ethological and bitless riding, enjoy beautiful rides and magnificent landscapes in a personalized, family atmosphere. Possibility of bringing your own horse.

The Gîte des Abeilles, located in the village, combines the pleasures of nature with the conveniences of a village between the Monts du Cantal and the Massif du Sancy, in an exceptional natural environment. A multitude of activities ensure an unforgettable stay.

Detached single-storey house 55 m² with shady, enclosed garden in a small hamlet in Sumène Artense. Uninterrupted view of the Cantal mountains. Living room with kitchenette, sofa bed and fireplace (wood provided), 2 bedrooms (2 x 140 cm beds and 1 x 90 cm bed), shower room with WC. Electric heating, dishwasher, washing machine, television, microwave, freezer, garden furniture, barbecue...

Detached house in small village 9km from Lac de Lastioulles and Bort-les-Orgues dam. Communal dining room with fully-equipped kitchenette, 4 bedrooms available, no table d'hôtes. Wifi on request.

Barn converted into a very attractive home with glass roof bringing exceptional light to all 3 levels. Very pleasant for family relaxation, equipped kitchen, 4 bedrooms. 1 bathroom, living room with TV and enclosed grounds. Between Dordogne and Monts du Cantal, detached character house dating from 1880, renovated in 2008. Living room - kitchenette - 3 bedrooms (1 bed 160x200) - mezzanine (2 single beds - relaxation area) - shower room with WC - bathroom - separate WC - electric heating - free wood-burning stove - 2 TVs - DVD - cell phone - courtyard - enclosed grounds - beds made up on arrival - household linen provided - baby equipment. Shops in Saignes 5 km - Bort-les-Orgues 6 km - Mauriac 28 km - Green trail on site (bikes, rollerblades) 600 m away, free access to indoor pool shared with other rentals.

Romanesque church. Year of construction: 12th century. Listed as a historical monument in 1968. The Church of Saint Martin in Sauvat is a Romanesque building dating from the 12th century. It is mentioned in the famous "Charter of Clovis," referring to a sanctuary dedicated to Saint Martin in the village of Sauvat ("In villa Salvat est ecclesia … Sancto Martino dicata"). Over time, the building underwent several transformations: two chapels were added, some chancel windows were enlarged around 1660, and a sacristy was built in 1747. The roof and the nave vault were rebuilt in 1730. The bell tower was probably damaged during the French Revolution, then rebuilt and raised during the Restoration. Built in the Auvergne Romanesque style, the church is constructed of volcanic stone, with a western façade of large ashlar blocks. The chancel consists of a chancel bay and a semicircular apse, supported by powerful buttresses. A cornice, supported by sculpted corbels, encircles the apse; some motifs on these corbels evoke other Romanesque churches in the region. The chancel vault houses a fresco discovered in 1977 depicting Christ in glory surrounded by the four Evangelists with their symbolic animals. There is also a statue of the Virgin Mary and a large 18th-century cross. In the adjoining cemetery stands a limestone cross resting on an old baptismal font; sculpted motifs of crosses, flowers, and foliage are still visible. Visit and access: Self-guided tours are possible; keys can be obtained from the Sauvat town hall (04 71 40 64 80).

Romanesque church. Year of construction: 12th century. Classified as a historical monument in 1862. The Church of Saint George in Ydes-Bourg dates back to the 12th century, making it an important example of Romanesque architecture in northern Cantal. Originally a Templar commandery, linked to the Knights Templar, it passed to the Knights Hospitaller of St. John of Jerusalem at the beginning of the 14th century. Reconstructions and additions took place in the 14th and 15th centuries: vaults were rebuilt, and side chapels were added. The building is in the Auvergne Romanesque style, constructed of dressed stone. It consists of a two-bay nave, a transept with projecting arms, and a pentagonal apse. A semicircular arch separates the bays of the nave, resting on sculpted capitals. The building is part of the former Templar commandery, which gives it particular historical significance. Inside, there are sculpted capitals on the supports of the double arch, with medieval motifs. The furnishings are neo-Romanesque: high altar, choir stalls, confessionals, baptistery and Stations of the Cross, sculpted by M. Ribes (of Mauriac). The choir stalls are particularly well-crafted: their backs illustrate the months of the year and biblical scenes such as the sacrifice of Abraham or Tobit with the angel. The Church of Saint George in Ydes-Bourg is a major historical monument in the Auvergne region, combining religious heritage and Templar memory. Its Romanesque structure, sculpted capitals, and rich Neo-Romanesque furnishings bear witness to a continuity of religious and artistic life over several centuries. Visit and access: Self-guided tours are possible; collect the keys from the Ydes town hall (04 71 40 82 51). An exhibition of sacred art is on display in the church sacristy. It contains exquisitely beautiful religious objects (12th-century pyxes, an 18th-century nursing Virgin, priestly vestments, etc.). Visits possible during the summer season and off-season by appointment (04 71 40 59 81).

Viewpoint perched 860 m above the Sumène valley. Accessible to all, picnic table, orientation table, view of the Monts du Cantal, parking nearby.

A 17 km green trail linking Cheyssac (commune of Vebret) to Bort-les-Orgues via Ydes. It is built on a former railroad line. It can be used on foot, by bike or on rollerblades without too much effort, and the gradient is not too steep... It's very safe, so you can take your children for a walk. The path is unrestricted, and you can start anywhere, in any direction. At the center of the trail in Ydes is a rental area. Adult bikes (electric or mechanical), children's bikes (mechanical) and rollerblades are available for hire.

Beyond offering the leisure of circulating and discovering the landscapes of Sumène Artense, the Piste Verte has offered an open-air exhibition project every year since 2014. The Piste des Arts is open to the public in three exhibition areas, open all year round, along the Piste Verte: at Parensol (Bassignac), Ydes and Verchalles (Vebret).

Permanent exhibition of butterflies and other insects from around the world. The exhibition introduces visitors to the world's most prestigious species of insects and butterflies. More than 3,500 specimens are on display, accompanied by documents accessible to all. In addition to a fantastic variety of butterflies from every continent, you'll be able to admire the magnificent golden beetle from Costa Rica, gleaming buprestes, the giants of the night, as well as mygales and scorpions. The exhibition also gives pride of place to the discovery of local and French fauna. With its wealth of species and strange beauty of form, its enchanting colors and original evocation of exoticism, the exhibition will touch the sensibilities of everyone and arouse their admiration. The exhibition is complemented by an educational display of 20 panels explaining the importance of biodiversity.

The Pic de Charlus is a landscaped site offering magnificent panoramic views over the Sumène valley and the Chastel-Marlhac plateau. A hiking trail leads to the site: PR 22: Le Pic de Charlus. Free access all year round. It is a "monogenic" volcanic edifice, i.e. a volcano with a single chimney, each eruption having produced, over a short period of time, only one type of lava. All that remained, after the passage of the glaciers, were remnants of the chimney known as necks. Charlus was also one of the most important fortresses in the Haute-Auvergne region. To this day, only a few sections of wall remain, along with a cross marking the entrance to the castle's ancient chapel. Charlus was first mentioned well before the year 1000, and the history of its successive owners ends at the dawn of the 19th century. The site offers a vast panorama from the Gorges de la Dordogne to the Monts du Cantal, well worth the effort of climbing to the summit. There is a hiking trail to help you get to know the site: PR 22: Le Pic de Charlus. Free access all year round.

Romanesque-style castle chapel. Year of construction: 12th century. Classified as a historical monument in 1921. Perched atop a basalt rock overlooking the village of Saignes, the Notre-Dame du Château chapel is an iconic remnant of the town's medieval castle. The only nearly intact element of the former fortified castle, it bears witness to a rich historical past and offers breathtaking views of the Sumène valley and the surrounding landscape. The building is constructed of volcanic tuff ashlar. It has a two-bay nave and a pointed barrel vault. The apse is semicircular, vaulted in a semi-dome, and topped with a rounded hipped roof. Six buttresses support the walls, and sculpted corbels, including stylized heads, can be seen on some of the facades. The west portal, restored in the 19th century, features a decorated archivolt, sculpted columns, and a small oculus. A small bell tower, housing a bell, crowns the chapel. Visits and access: Visits are only permitted during guided tours.

Romanesque church. Year of construction: 12th century. Classified as a historical monument in 1921. Built in the 12th century, the church was initially dedicated to Saint Andrew before being rededicated to the Holy Cross. Two side chapels were added between 1624 and 1627: the Chapel of the Rosary and the Chapel of Saint Anne. The bell tower has undergone several transformations: its upper section was destroyed in 1794, rebuilt in 1850, and then raised in 1890. The building is in the Auvergne Romanesque style, constructed of volcanic tuff, trachyte, basalt, and dressed stone. It features a single nave, wider than the apse, reinforced by buttresses, and a semicircular apse. The west facade is adorned with a round-arched portal, framed by half-arcades resting on columns with foliate capitals. The apse is punctuated by sculpted corbels, some depicting faces or fantastical creatures. The apse has a semi-dome vault, and the choir bay has a barrel vault. There are 14 capitals sculpted in volcanic tuff, dating from the 12th century, decorated with plant motifs, fabulous animals or geometric shapes. The apse is decorated with a set of 12 sculpted corbels, also made of tufa, featuring a variety of motifs (faces, foliage, and fantastical figures). A wooden statue of Saint Roch, patron saint of the parish, is kept in the church. Visit and access: Self-guided tours are possible; collect the keys from the Saignes town hall (04 71 40 62 80).

A look back at the mining past of Ydes and Champagnac. Presentation of the different mining sites, the shafts and the major events that marked the basin.

Restaurant for up to 46 people in the dining room and 30 on the terrace, offering traditional cuisine. Bar - takeaway - caterer.

Café, Brasserie, Pizzéria de la Poste located in the heart of the beautiful village of Saignes, near the church on route du Monteil. Workman's lunch every weekday, à la carte menu and pizzas in the evening, made with fresh produce. Friendly welcome.

On site or to take away, La Galinette offers pizzas and artisanal burgers, including foie gras and veal sweetbreads, made with fresh, local produce, as well as its tenderloin with blue cheese sauce, fries and salad. Drinks and desserts are also available. Don't hesitate to make a reservation. Fresh "smart pizza" and cold drinks vending machines, open 24/7.

Village restaurant-bar-grocery where we offer gourmet quality cuisine prepared with fresh, local, seasonal produce. A la carte menu and full menu at lunchtime on weekdays. In our small grocery store, you'll find products from the Cantalou region, as well as a few convenience goods. A friendly place with a pleasant terrace in the center of a charming village in the countryside.

Hello and welcome, Marinette, Grégoire and Delphine will be delighted to welcome you. We're both lovers, lovers of food and lovers of people, and our aim is to give you a simple experience you'll remember for a long time. Good-natured and loving to entertain, we can say that this is not a job but a real passion.

Reception in the heart of the village of Sérandon, around a traditional cuisine and pizzas cooked on wood fire. Theme evenings and concerts, all in a family and friendly atmosphere.

Located on the main square, close to the Dordogne river. Pleasant setting and terrace. Family kitchen.

Family-style cuisine based on local produce, served in a warm and welcoming setting.

Located in the heart of the city, family restaurant. Regional cuisine. Speciality "Truffade". Pancakes. Couscous to take away every Friday evening, on order.

Discover our restaurant on the banks of the Dordogne river to enjoy a generous and traditional cuisine. Our menu evolves according to the seasons, with house specialities such as the Escalopes of Fresh Pan-fried Foie Gras, Veal Head in the CENTRAL way, Lamb Mouse roasted with Honey, Chocolate Fondue... NEW : Le BRUNCH : served every Saturday lunchtime from 11am to 3pm. All-you-can-eat buffet! The "SHARE AND DISCOVERY" evenings and the Lounge Bar: afterwork, tasting, garden party, to live a unique experience!

In a quiet, green setting where our Salers cows graze, we welcome you to our renovated gîte in the typical Cantal style. Our farm will be your starting point for discovering the Cantal and nearby Corrèze. The gîte has its own entrance adjoining the owner's house. Renovated with character and equipped with a large living room, a large fireplace with stove (free wood), a fully equipped kitchen, dishwasher, washing machine, tumble dryer, TV, 2 bedrooms (2 double beds - 2 single beds), one of which is on the mezzanine - veranda with garden furniture - garden - magnificent view. Shops 8 km away - Bort-les-Orgues 18 km.

As a starting point for discovering the Cantal and Corrèze regions, we welcome you to a peaceful, green setting, surrounded by our Salers cows. You can enjoy lunch outside on the terrace, almost any time of year. The downstairs apartment comprises a large living room with "Cantou" fireplace and wood-burning stove. It has a modern kitchen on the first floor with a terrace for al fresco dining in summer. There is a double bedroom on the first floor, a bathroom and WC. Upstairs, there are 3 double bedrooms, with a reading area under a large velux window overlooking Ardit, the Mazenroux woods and Puy l'Abbé.

Quiet, comfortable self-contained gîte located between the Dordogne Valley and the Monts du Cantal. Close to a lovely watering hole. A games room equipped for leisure activities. Two steps from a multi-activity trail.

A winding, bucolic road leads to Marraine's home. A characterful Auvergne house (1872) welcomes nature-loving guests. This is the countryside, surrounded by meadows and cows, with a breathtaking view. On the day of your arrival, you can enjoy your first meal, a typical regional home-cooked meal using fresh local produce. There's plenty to do (mushrooming, fishing, hiking, swimming, horse-riding, country festivals, castles, arts and crafts, discovering the Cantalien terroir, gastronomy and heritage...). Rest and enjoy an unforgettable moment of relaxation at your own pace. A little cocoon of simplicity, calm and sincerity.

Detached character house in a quiet hamlet. Located at the crossroads of Cantal, Corrèze and Puy-de-Dôme. This gîte has a semi-enclosed plot of 1400m² with garden furniture, deckchairs barbecue and bicycle storage. First floor: fitted kitchen area, living room with fireplace, TV, wifi internet access, separate WC. Upstairs, 1 bedroom with 160cm bed, 1 bedroom with 140cm bed, 1 bedroom with 2 single beds, bathroom and separate WC. Beds made on arrival.

Our rooms are located in a late 19th-century mansion set in one hectare of landscaped grounds. Each room has its own private bathroom and toilet. A fully equipped kitchen is available on request. You the bowling green. Also for our motorbike friends, a motorcycle shelter is available. We are 10 minutes from the Bort-les-Orgues dam (beach, swimming, canoeing, pedalos...), 25 minutes from the Dordogne gorges and 30 minutes from the medieval town of Salers.

Large detached house set in 2850m2 of wooded grounds. Situated between the Dordogne gorges and the Cantal mountains, this beautiful home welcomes you to a peaceful setting at the entrance to the village of Ydes. You can share a convivial moment on a covered terrace, but also on a second south-facing terrace equipped with 2 garden furniture sets, deckchairs, a barbecue and a ping-pong table. All shops and services in Ydes 500m away.

Delimited pitches on flat, shady ground, close to leisure facilities: swimming pool, tennis court, petanque area, children's playground. Pitch only.

Delimited pitches on flat, shady ground, close to leisure facilities: swimming pool, tennis court, petanque pitch, children's playground. Sanitary facilities to be refurbished in 2022, communal washing machine, water and electricity connections. Close to town and amenities.