In Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre, two very different types of hikes take centre stage: a 1.6-kilometre section of Les Grenadières and a five-day route across the Hautes Chaumes. Mont Mory, the 14th-century church and local producers add a natural landmark, local history and regional products to the hiking trails.
From a short trail section to a multi-day hike
On the Les Grenadières route, the section from Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre to Saint-Julien-la-Vêtre is 1.6 kilometres long and takes 25 minutes according to the stated duration. The route leads into the centre of Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre via the Chemin des Osiers. The route description published in 2025 therefore identifies a clearly defined section with a start, a destination and a stated duration. Check the current trail conditions before setting out.
The Hautes Chaumes route offers a different time frame: the stage description published in June 2024 covers 84 kilometres over five days. On the first day, it leads from Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre to Notre-Dame de l’Hermitage. The difference is clear when planning your stay: a single section with a stated duration of 25 minutes sits alongside a multi-day route.
Landscape, granite and pastoral heritage
The Hautes Chaumes route passes through landscapes of heathland, coniferous forests and broom. It also showcases the region’s pastoral heritage through Fourme cheese and stone Jasseries. Both the landscape and regional culture are therefore part of what this route has to offer.
Mont Mory in Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre is part of the classified natural monument “Blocs granitiques du canton de Noirétable”. The area was classified as a natural monument on 8 July 1910 and is also listed as a place of legend. The rock formation that includes Mont Mory is referred to as rocking stones, dolmens or cup-marked stones. Those interested in granite formations will find not only its classification here but also the different names given to the rocks.
Local plants and food
Les Jardins de Montdogat in Noaillat, Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre, produces organic plants locally. The plants are gathered by hand in protected areas. The shop sells herbal teas, food-grade hydrosols, aromatic herbs and apple cider vinegar. Visits are available by appointment; arrange a time before you arrive.
Les jardins de la Vêtre in Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre produces seasonal organic vegetables, eggs and mushrooms. For 2026, sales are listed on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. directly at the garden, and on Saturday mornings at the Montbrison market. Check the schedule before you travel. The two producers offer different ways to connect with the area during your stay: Montdogat focuses on plants and pre-arranged visits, while Les jardins de la Vêtre offers seasonal food and set sales times.
Church and local history
The church in Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre dates from the 14th century and has a bell-tower porch. Jeanne-Marie Chauvel is also connected with the village’s history: she lived in Saint-Priest-la-Vêtre in 1856 and then set off for Paris. A specific architectural period and a milestone in someone’s life are brought together here.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Romain-D'urfé, Aboën, Saint-Michel-Sur-Rhône, Mizérieux, Le Crozet, Veranne, Sury-Le-Comtal, Arthun.
For the broader travel overview: Loire.
