The Loire is one of the three major tourist attractions in Bas-En-Basset. The Parc de la biodiversité covers 200 hectares and includes 13 ponds and the Loire; 80 hectares are pond area, and 10 hectares are the Loire. There are various routes and activities to choose from when planning your visit.
Ponds, birdwatching and hiking trails
A 7 km hiking trail marked in yellow starts at the « La garenne » campsite and runs through the park; there is also a mountain bike loop. Both routes are accessible to everyone. Another option is PR676 Le tour des Etangs: this moderately difficult circular hiking trail is 8.5 km long, with a stated duration of 2 hours and 15 minutes. Breeding and migratory bird species can be observed at the ponds; the walk is suitable for families.
The trails differ in more than just their length. PR106 Le tour du Malorum is a difficult 10.2 km hike with a stated duration of 3 hours and an elevation gain and loss of 404 metres each. It leads to the foot of Château de Rochebaron, from where the castle can be accessed. If you are looking for a trail suitable for beginners, T44 – Le chemin des crêts offers another option through varied countryside around the Château. For accommodation and day-trip planning, PR676 and PR106 offer a clear comparison of times: 2 hours and 15 minutes versus 3 hours. Check the current trail conditions before setting out on PR106.
Castle, art and history
The medieval Château de Rochebaron retains defensive features such as machicolations, defensive walls and arrow slits. The Château also houses two museums and a trail with 12 information panels about the lords of Rochebaron, who lived in the castle from the 12th to the 16th century. From April to the end of October, visitors can watch around 20 birds of prey flying freely during falconry displays. As seasonal dates may change, it is advisable to check the latest visiting information.
Art also has its own exhibition space: La Petite Galerie is located in a former butcher’s shop. Local artists exhibit works there, including oil paintings, watercolours, pastels, pottery and sculptures. The programme also includes a new temporary exhibition every four months in the entrance area of the Maison de Santé Yvonne AUBERT. If you want to see a particular exhibition, check the current programme before your trip.
Mont Malorum is considered a Gallic oppidum. Historically, it was also associated with a tradition on the summer solstice, 24 June: on this occasion, the Vellavi finalised the marriages planned for the year. This story offers a different perspective from the castle’s history and broadens the cultural picture of the area.
Plan a trip on the Loire
Canoe Nature Loisirs rents fully equipped single and double canoes for trips on the Loire by reservation. The service offers three routes of 9, 14 and 22 km; multi-day rentals are also available. The provider’s base is in Bas-En-Basset. A shuttle takes participants from there upriver, while their car waits at the trip’s endpoint. As arrangements may change, check the latest details and reserve your canoe in advance.
Discover more destinations: Malrevers, Lapte, Cerzat, Champclause, Saint-Julien-Chapteuil, Queyrières, Sainte-Florine, Saint-Pierre-du-Champ.
For the broader travel overview: Haute-Loire.
