A bell in the current church and a QR-code trail provide two concrete points of reference for Laprugne’s local history. There are also hiking options ranging from a single route to a larger trail network, as well as winter activities at La Loge des Gardes. This makes it possible to plan a trip around heritage, hiking and seasonal activities according to your own interests.
High Point and Heritage
The Pierres du Jour lie at an altitude of 1,165 metres and are the highest point in the commune of Laprugne and the Monts de la Madeleine. A bell in Laprugne’s current church dates from 1474; it is one of the oldest bells in the département. Together, they offer two distinct local points of reference: a geographical landmark and a specific historical object.
The freely accessible Parcours libre des petits ambassadeurs du patrimoine shares anecdotes and stories researched by schoolchildren via QR codes. It is located in the centre of Laprugne and the surrounding area; part of it runs outside the town centre. Unlike the bell, a single dated object, the trail brings together several locally researched stories.
Hiking: Trail Network and Individual Route
Laprugne is the starting point for Vichy Communauté’s 17 permanent trail routes, which cover a total of 440 km. The routes are signposted, and their GPX tracks are available to download. The signs help you find your way on site, while the downloadable GPX tracks provide additional digital route information to help you prepare for a hike.
The “Le roc des Gabelous – PR n°6” hiking trail is an easy, 8 km circular route in Laprugne. The stated walking time is approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. It passes through beech and fir forests to the Chemin de la Ligue.
When choosing a route, it helps to distinguish between the network and an individual trail: the 17 trail routes and 440 km show the scope of the Vichy Communauté network, while the PR n°6 provides specific details for a single hike. If you are planning a particular hike, you have its length, stated difficulty level and approximate walking time to hand. The GPX tracks and signposts, on the other hand, help you find your way around the larger trail network.
Winter Activities at La Loge des Gardes
La Loge des Gardes is located on the D182 in 03250 Laprugne and is a ski resort and leisure park. In winter, activities include alpine skiing, downhill skiing, snowboarding, sledging and snowshoeing.
The dates are also important for planning: the QR-code trail is open daily and free of charge throughout 2026; if visiting after 2026, check the opening information in effect at that time. Activities at La Loge des Gardes are seasonal and take place in winter. Check current access before visiting.
Discover more destinations: Hauterive, Saint-Désiré, Châtelus, Meaulne, Châteaugay, Saligny-sur-Roudon, Saint-Bonnet-Tronçais, Marcillat-en-Combraille.
For the regional travel overview: Allier.
