Allanche combines the character of a fortified village with traces of its history and paths into the Cézallier landscape. Enamelled plaques explain local personalities and the history of the village. There is also a Romanesque church, themed exhibits and outings on foot or by bike. You can shape your stay around culture, nature or a mix of both.

Village History and Church

Allanche is built on basalt flows and has the character of a fortified village. The enamelled plaques offer a way to explore the village’s history and the personalities associated with Allanche. Another historical landmark is the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste: it dates from the 12th century and is a fortified Romanesque church. It was gradually extended in the 15th and 16th centuries. Since 2002, it has been protected as a historic monument. At one site, you can distinguish its Romanesque origins from later building phases.

Exhibits and Annual Festivals

The Espace Cézallier features themed exhibits on summer pastures, burons, cheese, cloth merchants, landscape design and water. Multisensory installations engage sight, hearing, smell and touch. If you plan to visit, check the current visitor arrangements in advance.

The annual events also have different themes. The Foire à la brocante et aux antiquités d’Allanche focuses on antiques, folk art and vintage items; an expert checks their authenticity. The Fête de l’estive celebrates the driving of Salers cattle to their summer pastures. If one of the festivals is important to your trip, check the dates in advance and plan accordingly.

Views and Trails in the Cézallier

The Cézallier Plateau near Allanche offers numerous panoramic views towards the Monts du Sancy and the Monts du Cantal. From Roche Grande, the view extends across the Cézallier, the Margeride, the Aubrac, the Bois de la Pinatelle and the Monts du Cantal.

The Roche Grande circular hike is 6.6 kilometres long and takes about two hours. It is marked in blue and can also be ridden by mountain bike; the estimated time for this is about 45 minutes. The hiking and cycling options refer to the same circular route, but have different stated times. Check the route information locally before setting out.

Explore by Vélorail

Another cycling option is the Vélorail du Cézallier. It starts at the stations in Allanche and Landeyrat and follows a former railway line. Classic and electric rail bikes are available. There are four return routes in total, ranging from 6 to 23 kilometres from the two stations. Unlike the Roche Grande loop, the focus here is on riding along the former railway line, with a choice of route lengths. Routes and operating hours may vary seasonally, so check them before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Ladinhac, Chaussenac, Saint-Étienne-De-Maurs, Besse, Labrousse, Anglards-De-Saint-Flour, Saint-Jacques-Des-Blats, Lanobre

For the broader travel overview: Cantal.