Auvergne

At the heart of Auvergne, Vichy is the ideal starting point for exploring the Allier, a department rich in natural and historical heritage. Auvergne, a land of volcanoes, wide open spaces and living traditions, offers a concentration of authenticity and unspoiled landscapes. A land of thermal spa culture, gastronomy and craftsmanship, the Allier charms visitors with its characterful villages and warm atmosphere. Perfectly suited to group stays, the region promises discovery, conviviality and memorable experiences.

Top 5 Charmhotel

1 – Vichy, Queen of Spa Towns

Vichy, the queen of spa towns, captivates visitors with its timeless elegance and unique atmosphere. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe®, it has embodied the art of well-being for centuries. Here, every district tells a story: the refinement of the spa quarter and its iconic springs, the Golden Triangle with its elegant façades, the Napoleon III chalets, romantic parks, and the soothing banks of the Allier River. A cultural and sporting city, Vichy is also home to a rare jewel: its Opera House, the only Art Nouveau theatre in France and a true showcase for performances, conferences, and heritage discoveries. Combining remarkable architecture, ever-present nature, and a gentle way of life, Vichy offers an ideal setting. Lively, accessible, and inspiring, it promises powerful moments and unforgettable experiences. A city to live and share without delay.

City centre

2 – Charroux and Lapalisse

Blending medieval charm with historical heritage, Charroux and Lapalisse are must-see stops in the Allier for groups. Charroux, listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, enchants visitors with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and artisan workshops. Just a few kilometres away, Lapalisse reveals its Renaissance castle and panoramic views over the valley. With guided tours, leisurely walks, and gourmet discoveries, these destinations offer a rich and friendly programme, perfect for creating lasting memories.

33 km – 40 minutes

3 – Moulins

A City of Art and History, Moulins charms visitors with its remarkable heritage and warm atmosphere. A must-see is the National Centre for Stage Costume, unique in France, showcasing sumptuous costumes and immersive scenography. Moulins also boasts its cathedral, the famous triptych by the Master of Moulins, picturesque streets, and the banks of the Allier River. Culture, leisurely strolls, and traditions come together to offer a rich stay in the heart of the Bourbonnais.

58 km – 60 minutes

4 – Montluçon

Montluçon, a town with a rich medieval heritage and a lively atmosphere, charms visitors with its picturesque streets, the Château of the Dukes of Bourbon, and its historic quarters. The Museum of Popular Music offers an immersive journey into the heart of musical traditions. Combining visits, strolls, and artistic discoveries, Montluçon delights with its diversity.

85 km – 1 hour 30 minutes

5 – Saint-Pourçain

Saint-Pourçain, a town with authentic charm in the Allier, welcomes visitors in a friendly and picturesque setting. At the heart of its historic vineyard, the Domaine de Bérioles offers tours and tastings of its renowned wines, for a gourmet and cultural immersion. The town provides a unique experience of sharing and discovery for all lovers of wine and heritage.

28 km – 30 minutes

Monique Pruniaux

Nestled in the heart of Vichy’s historic city centre, Hôtel Les Nations opens its doors for a stay combining period elegance with modern comfort. In this typical Napoleon III residence, every detail has been carefully designed to let you fully enjoy the city’s history, nature, and vibrant atmosphere. The 61 air-conditioned rooms, tastefully decorated, provide a refined and restful setting where authenticity meets modern amenities. Each morning, enjoy a thoughtfully prepared breakfast in the warm and welcoming dining room. Between strolls through the Napoleonic parks, cultural discoveries at the Opera House, the thermal baths and historic districts, or relaxing moments at the bar, library, and terrace, Hôtel Les Nations is the ideal starting point for exploring Vichy and enjoying an unforgettable stay. For added peace of mind, privatise the wellness area and savour a unique moment of relaxation.

Enjoy a coach tour stay in Vichy to explore the city and the region’s major sites. After discovering the parks and Belle Époque architecture, head to Charroux, a characterful village, Moulins and its historical heritage, Montluçon with its medieval streets, then Lapalisse and its Renaissance castle. With guided tours, cultural discoveries and Bourbonnais landscapes, this stay offers a complete immersion around Vichy.

Enjoy a self-drive holiday and explore Auvergne at your own pace. After a guided tour of the historic and spa districts, set off to discover the Saint-Pourçain vineyards for a tasting. Then explore Charroux, one of the most beautiful villages in France, followed by Lapalisse and its castle. Continue on to the green landscapes of the Bourbonnaise Mountains before reaching the Auvergne volcanoes for a unique natural experience. A complete, varied and unforgettable stay.

Explore Auvergne with Vichy as your starting point: between Bourbonnais hills, winding roads and volcanic landscapes, let yourself be carried by the wind. Stop at the Fortress of Billy to discover this medieval castle perched above the Allier Valley, a fortified site rich in history. Continue on to the Saint-Pourçain vineyards for a tasting break, then head to the Bourbonnaise Mountains and the Auvergne volcanoes to enjoy breathtaking views and total freedom. A journey combining a passion for motorbikes, nature and heritage—ideal for an adventurous weekend of discovery.

Set off by bike from Vichy for a cycling holiday combining tourism and nature. Follow the Vichy Greenway and its surroundings for safe, scenic routes. Explore the winding roads of the Bourbonnaise Mountains, admire the Auvergne volcanoes and ride through the Saint-Pourçain vineyards. A complete programme blending physical effort, spectacular scenery and cultural heritage in the heart of the Bourbonnais.

Discover the green, rolling landscapes of the Allier, between forests, rivers and volcanoes. This stay combines hiking, exploration of local heritage and relaxation in Vichy. Suitable for beginner to intermediate hikers, each day offers an immersion in nature and Auvergne culture.

Discover the region’s three golf courses: Golf Sporting Club Vichy, Golf Vichy Forêt de Montpensier, and Golf des Volcans in Clermont-Ferrand. This stay combines sport and relaxation with courses suitable for all levels, set in rolling, green landscapes. Between rounds of golf, spa relaxation and discovering Vichy, enjoy a complete stay to improve your swing and savour local gastronomy.

Enjoy a complete sports-focused stay in and around Vichy, combining hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and other outdoor activities. Suitable for all levels, this stay blends physical effort and discovery: explore the green landscapes, forests and rivers of the Allier, enjoy convivial moments and end your days with relaxation and well-being. An ideal experience to recharge, challenge yourself and fully enjoy nature.

Enjoy a gastronomic and wine-themed stay in Vichy: immersion at the Grand Market, tasting local specialities, discovering the iconic pastilles, and visiting the Saint-Pourçain vineyards. Between local produce, food and wine pairings, and an elegant spa setting, Vichy offers a refined getaway at the heart of Bourbonnais flavours.

The hotel welcomes you with a private spa featuring a jacuzzi and sauna, as well as on-request massages for a personalised relaxation experience. Nearby, the Vichy Célestins Spa, just 400 m away, completes the stay. To enrich the experience, enjoy a guided tour of the city and discover Vichy’s heritage, parks and architecture, combining relaxation, culture and well-being.

Come and celebrate Vichy’s major events at the Palais des Congrès, an iconic venue capable of hosting large audiences. Explore the board games festival or relive the imperial era during the Napoleon III Festivities. With entertainment, shows and a friendly atmosphere, Vichy offers a festive and cultural getaway where everyone finds their place—from game enthusiasts to lovers of music and history.