Beauzac brings together Romanesque architecture, traces of a fortified past and a range of hiking opportunities. If you are looking for hotels in Beauzac, you can shape your stay around local history, the landscape or outdoor activities. The buildings and routes offer different highlights; you can decide what you would like to make the focus of your trip.
Romanesque Architecture and Local History
The church of Beauzac, dedicated to Saint John, was first mentioned in a document dated 1 April 1179. Its Romanesque choir dates from the 12th century; the crypt is considered unique in the Velay. In Beauzac, the “Patrimoine et rando” route leads to the medieval church and its Romanesque crypt.
The history of the fortifications can also be seen in specific structures: Beauzac was a fortified town dating from the 12th century. Two pointed-arch gates and a defensive tower remain from the former fortifications. The Pont de Confolent is listed in the inventory of historic monuments. Construction took eight months, and the bridge opened in January 1863.
Beauzac Castle has several distinctive features. On the second floor is a large room with painted ceiling beams dating from 1567; the castle also has an impressive vaulted kitchen. The Maison de la BĂ©ate dates from the 17th century. The Romanesque Chapelle du Fraisse-Bas is the surviving part of a former Benedictine priory. Its elegant Romanesque bell tower overlooks the narrow Ramel valley.
Plateau and Hiking Trails
A well-maintained trail crosses the volcanic Madeleine Plateau from north to south. Since trail conditions can change, it is advisable to check for current information before setting out. The small Chapelle Sainte-Marie-Madeleine stands in the middle of the plateau. Three orientation boards offer views of the Loire Valley and the MĂ©zenc, Meygal, Pilat and Forez massifs; visibility may vary depending on conditions.
The hiking options vary considerably in duration. The T45 trail, “Sur les hauteurs de Beauzac,” is 17.8 kilometres long and rated difficult. Since route ratings can change, check the latest information before setting out. A four-day route with three overnight stays follows the GR 3 “Source et gorges de la Loire” from Aurec-sur-Loire to Beauzac, returning via Monistrol-sur-Loire. Route recommendations may also be revised; take current information into account when planning.
Picnic areas have been set up along the “Patrimoine et rando” route. Since such facilities may change, it is advisable to check the latest information before setting out. The route leads to the church and crypt, while T45 and GR 3 offer different timeframes for planning a hike.
Other Activities and Local Products
The Mountain Bike Route 24, “De l’Ance à la Loire,” is rated difficult in Beauzac. For activities with horses and ponies, the Écuries des 3 Vallées in Beauzac offer another option, including recreational riding. Horse and pony activities are available from age three. Group lessons, games, courses and rides are offered by prior reservation. Make your reservation in advance; booking arrangements may change.
Those wishing to buy local cheeses can find Saint-Agur and other regional varieties at the Compagnie Fromagère de la Vallée de l’Ance (CFVA) shop. The products available to buy add a culinary stop to the historical and landscape attractions; retail availability may vary.
Consider which of these options you would like to make the focus of your trip, and plan longer hikes or activities requiring reservations separately.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Malrevers, Cussac-Sur-Loire, Chomelix, Les Vastres, Chaspuzac, Vieille-Brioude, Landos, Saint-Christophe-D'allier.
Return to the main travel overview: Haute-Loire.
