In Chastreix, nature and cultural heritage take many different forms: from a waterfall and a raised bog to winter routes, a Gothic church and an annual pilgrimage. The seasons also change the way the landscape is experienced. In summer, the Plaines Brûlées are used as pastureland; in winter, they are used for Nordic skiing.
Landscape, Water and Wildlife
The Plaines Brûlées lie at an altitude of 1,430 metres and stretch from Chastreix-Sancy to the Col de Bozat. Another defining area is the Réserve Naturelle de Chastreix-Sancy: it covers the southern slope of the Sancy and includes the Fontaine Salée glacial cirque. Mountain species such as mouflon, chamois, marmots and roe deer live there. The reserve is also home to more than 130 bird species and 60 butterfly species.
The Cascade des Essarts also tells the story of the area's geology. The waterfall is about eight metres high; prismatic columns formed from ancient lava flows as they cooled on contact with the water of the Gagne stream. The walk there is partly shaded. The out-and-back route takes 1.5 hours; alternatively, a 4.6-kilometre loop with 131 metres of elevation gain is available. This allows you to plan your time based on either the stated duration or a route with an elevation change. Weather and the season can affect trail conditions.
The Tourbière de Rimat covers six hectares and is ten metres deep. Its diverse, permanently waterlogged habitats help regulate the water cycle and water quality, particularly with regard to the springs on the slope of the basalt flow. This raised bog is remarkable not only for its size but also for its ecological function.
Winter Activities and Rules in the Protected Area
Chastreix-Sancy offers a range of winter sports. The ski area has 18 downhill runs, seven ski lifts, a boardercross course, a covered conveyor belt and two toboggan runs. The cross-country skiing area includes four trails and two connecting routes. Those wishing to snowshoe can follow a loop and two connecting routes through the forest and high-altitude terrain. The activities therefore vary by type and route format; use is seasonal and, for cross-country skiing and snowshoe trails, also depends on snow conditions.
Hiking, horse riding, skiing, paragliding, hang gliding and hot-air ballooning are permitted in the RĂ©serve Naturelle de Chastreix-Sancy; mountain biking is prohibited. Check the current rules for the protected area before setting out.
Church, Pilgrimage and Local History
The Église Saint-Bonnet is a 13th-century Gothic church and was listed as a historic monument in 1907. Its square bell tower was added in 1828. It houses a bell dating from 1561, which is also listed for its historic value. The church is open to the public free of charge every day throughout the year; services or conservation work may affect access.
The Roc de Courlande is a 1,496-metre-high peak made of trachy-andesite, with exceptional views. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it was a pilgrimage destination; three statues of the Virgin Mary stand along the path to the summit cross. The annual pilgrimage associated with Les Vierges de Courlande includes the blessing of children and herds.
The Sentier d’interprétation de Chastreix offers another glimpse into the area's history. This discovery trail passes a Gallic bridge, a shepherd's hut, a waterfall and old livestock watering troughs that recall the area's former agricultural life; the legend of the Pas du Diable is also one of its stops. The Four de la Vessaire is a historic village oven that was restored by the Chemins et Patrimoine au Pays des Toupis association and is still in use.
Discover Nature and Culture
The Maison de la RĂ©serve Naturelle de Chastreix-Sancy offers an interactive educational area, temporary and themed exhibitions, and a meeting place for events. It is also the starting point for numerous walks. The programme may vary depending on the season. Nature education and local discoveries are therefore complemented by the trails and landscapes that shape a stay in Chastreix.
Discover more destinations: Saint-RĂ©my-Sur-Durolle, Tauves, Grandval, Fournols, Sauxillanges, Montaigut-Le-Blanc, Saint-Ours, Saint-RĂ©my-De-Chargnat.
For the broader travel overview: Puy-De-DĂ´me.
