A church, a castle and a cycling loop offer three different ways to explore Faverolles: early church history, an architectural ensemble spanning several centuries, and a long route through the Margeride. Seasonal activities involving lavender and water sports round out the options.
Saint-Martin Church and Château du Chassan
The history of Saint-Martin Church dates back to the 10th century: in 971, the Count of Gévaudan transferred it to Brioude; the gift was confirmed in 1011. The two dates therefore mark the transfer and its confirmation. The present-day building is largely a modern reconstruction, so its historical record and architectural form belong to different periods. The interior was recently restored and may be of particular interest to those interested in sacred art. Its condition may change as a result of future work.
At Château du Chassan, a different perspective on architecture and furnishings is well worth taking. The castle and its garden are listed as historic monuments. The ensemble combines elements from the 14th and 18th centuries: a main building and two wings frame the courtyard of honour. French gardens are also part of the estate. Inside, the furnishings and decoration have remained largely unchanged. Those interested in the different layers of a historic ensemble can take in the architecture, garden and furnishings together. The exhibitions cover traditional rural occupations, fossils, minerals and engravings relating to Vauban; their content may be updated over time. Access arrangements may vary, so it is advisable to check them before visiting.
Cycling and routes through the landscape
The Circuit cyclo – Entre Arcomie et Margeride cycling loop passes through Faverolles and offers views of the Margeride mountains and their wooded ridges. According to the published information, the route is 106.5 kilometres long, takes 8 hours and 30 minutes, and has 1,886 metres of elevation gain. It carries the French Cycling Federation’s (FFC) “Espace Cyclosport” label. The distance, stated duration and elevation gain give you concrete points of comparison when weighing up this ride against other plans for your stay. Seasonal trail conditions are noted for the route; check conditions before setting off.
The Sentier des Maquisards is primarily a hiking trail. After Faverolles, a road section leads via Auriac-de-Faverolles to the Presqu'île du Cheylé, then on to Mallet and finally to Fridefont.
Seasonal activities and water sports
In Auriac de Faverolles, Ferme Florale de la Margeaubrac brings together several botanical themes: a visit includes a walk through the lavender fields, a lavender distillation demonstration, a gardening workshop and a herbal tea tasting. This is a different way to spend your time than going on a bike ride or visiting historic architecture. Dates and reservations are subject to the season; check both before making plans.
Base de loisirs Garabit Mallet rents out canoes, kayaks, windsurfing equipment, stand-up paddleboards, catamarans and rowing boats. The selection therefore covers different types of water sports equipment. Opening hours and availability may change seasonally, so it is worth checking shortly before a planned visit.
Montchanson in the wider Val d’Arcomie
Montchanson in the wider Val d’Arcomie offers another perspective on hiking. The Le chemin des écoliers de Montchanson circular trail is 6 kilometres long, rated moderate, and listed as taking 2 hours with 90 metres of elevation gain. It runs above the reservoir in the Bès and Truyère gorges. From the stretch near Puech de la Cabale, views extend to the Margeride mountains, the Cantal volcanoes, and the Truyère and Bès valleys.
Local traces of history also differ from the themes found in Faverolles: the 16th-century Croix de Montchanson bears a pilgrim’s staff and two scallop shells associated with the pilgrimage to Saint James. The Montchanson mineral spring was commercially exploited from 1887 to 1939. The hiking trail, cross and spring give this excursion its own focus within the wider Val d’Arcomie.
Discover more destinations: Le Claux, Ally, Cheylade, Tournemire, Saint-Urcize, Allanche, Trémouille, Marmanhac.
For the broader travel guide: Cantal.
